Jjin-Mandu (Steamed house-made dumplings)
Steamed dumplings, or "jjin-mandu" in Korean, are delicious pockets of thin dough filled with a savory mix of minced meat and vegetables. Popular ingredients include pork, beef, cabbage, green onions, and garlic. Steamed until tender, these dumplings are juicy and flavorful.
Typically served with a dipping sauce of soy sauce and vinegar, steamed dumplings make a great appetizer, snack, or main dish. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, they bring a touch of comfort and flavor to any meal.
Heamul Pajeon (Seafood scallion pancake)
Haemul Pajeon is a savory Korean seafood pancake that's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Made with a batter of flour, eggs, and water, it's generously filled with a variety of seafood like shrimp, squid, and clams, along with green onions (pajeon means "green onion pancake").
This delightful dish is pan-fried to golden perfection, creating a delicious combination of textures and flavors. It's often served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and a hint of sesame oil, which complements the savory pancake beautifully.
A classic pairing for Haemul Pajeon is Makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine. The slightly sweet and fizzy nature of Makgeolli balances the savory and crispy Haemul Pajeon, making it a popular combination, especially on rainy days. Enjoying these two together is a beloved tradition in Korean cuisine, offering a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.