korean kimchi
 
Korean cuisine is known for its bold, vibrant flavours, and one of the best parts about Korean meals is the variety of side dishes, or banchan, that accompany each main course. These small, flavour-packed dishes are the perfect way to complement your meal, adding a balance of spice, umami, and freshness.
 
In this blog, we’ll show you how to make a few quick and easy Korean side dishes that will elevate your next meal. Whether you’re a seasoned Korean food lover or just starting out, these recipes are simple, fast, and oh-so-delicious!

1. Classic Kimchi (배추 김치, Baechu Kimchi)

kimchi in bowl

No Korean meal is complete without kimchi, the quintessential fermented side dish made from napa cabbage, gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes), garlic, and a blend of seasonings. Kimchi is not only delicious but also offers numerous health benefits, especially with its probiotic content. While making kimchi from scratch takes a bit of time, you can still enjoy this classic dish by buying high-quality kimchi from Asia Market, or if you're feeling adventurous, you can try making your own!

How to Serve:

  • Serve kimchi as a side dish with steamed rice, grilled meats, or fried rice.
  • Use kimchi in stir-fries, soups, or even kimchi pancakes for extra flavour.

 

2. Korean Pickled Cucumbers (오이무침, Oi Muchim)

pickled cucumber

Oi muchim is a refreshing and tangy side dish made with cucumbers, gochugaru, garlic, and sesame oil. It’s quick to prepare and the perfect contrast to the richness of grilled meats or stews. The cucumbers provide a fresh crunch, while the seasoning adds depth and heat.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Slice the cucumbers thinly and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to release excess water.
  2. Mix garlic, gochugaru, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, and rice vinegar in a bowl.
  3. Rinse the cucumbers and pat them dry. Toss them in the seasoning mixture.
  4. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve chilled.

 

3. Korean Potato Salad (감자 샐러드, Gamja Salad)

potato salad

A unique take on the classic potato salad, gamja salad features creamy potatoes mixed with vegetables, a touch of sweetness, and a subtle kick of mustard and mayonnaise. This side dish is loved for its comforting texture and balance of flavours. It’s perfect for a quick addition to any meal.

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup grated carrots
  • 1/2 cup diced cucumber
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A few chopped spring onions

Instructions:

  1. Boil the potatoes until tender, then peel and mash them.
  2. Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, grated carrots, cucumber, and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Mix well and chill in the refrigerator before serving.

 

4. Korean Stir-Fried Spinach (시금치나물, Sigumchi Namul)

korean spinach

This simple spinach side dish is packed with nutrition and flavour. Known as sigumchi namul, it’s made by quickly blanching spinach and seasoning it with sesame oil, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame seeds. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect alongside any main course.

Ingredients:

  • 1 bunch spinach
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Blanch the spinach in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Squeeze out excess water from the spinach and place it in a bowl.
  3. Toss the spinach with sesame oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame seeds, and a pinch of salt.
  4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a cool, refreshing side dish.

 

5. Korean Sweet Potato Leaves (고구마순 나물, Goguma Sun Namul)

sweet potato leaves

Sweet potato leaves are a common vegetable used in Korean side dishes. Goguma sun namul is made by stir-frying the tender leaves with garlic, sesame oil, and soy sauce. It’s a healthy and simple dish that pairs perfectly with any Korean meal.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups sweet potato leaves (or substitute spinach)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds

Instructions:

  1. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
  2. Add the sweet potato leaves (or spinach) and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add soy sauce, sesame seeds, and stir well. Cook for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
  4. Serve hot with your meal.

Why Choose Korean Side Dishes from Asia Market?

Whether you're looking for authentic ingredients or ready-made kimchi and side dishes, Asia Market offers a wide range of high-quality Korean products. From gochugaru to sesame oil, we have everything you need to make these delicious quick and easy Korean side dishes at home. For those who want convenience, we also carry ready-to-serve kimchi and other Korean banchan that can be a quick addition to any meal.

FAQs About Korean Side Dishes

1. Can I make Korean side dishes ahead of time?

Yes, many Korean side dishes can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Kimchi and oi muchim even get better after a day or two of marinating.

2. How long can I store Korean side dishes?

Most Korean banchan will last for 3-4 days in the fridge. However, the kimchi will continue to ferment and get tangier the longer it’s stored.

3. Are these side dishes spicy?

Some of these dishes, like kimchi and oi muchim, can be spicy due to gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes). However, you can adjust the spice level to suit your preference by reducing the amount of pepper flakes.

4. Can I substitute ingredients in these recipes?

Yes! If you don’t have a specific ingredient, feel free to substitute with what you have on hand. For example, you can swap spinach for kale or sweet potato leaves for regular spinach.

Final Thoughts

Korean cuisine offers a wonderful variety of flavours, and these quick and easy Korean side dishes are perfect for anyone looking to add a bit of Korean flair to their meals. Whether you're enjoying kimchi, pickled cucumbers, or a stir-fry, these dishes are simple, healthy, and packed with taste.
Visit Asia Market for all your Korean ingredients and get started on your Korean culinary journey today!
 
Shop Korean Ingredients at Asia Market now and try these quick and easy Korean side dishes at home!