43 Best Korean Recipes and Korean-Inspired Bites

In this compilation of our favorite Korean recipes, we've gathered a host of traditional dishes—think real-deal kimchi, doenjang jjigae, bo ssam, and more—as well as those that are inspired by Korean flavors, such as gochujang grilled cheese, a riff on dubu jorim, and a kimchi pancake made with matzoh. You'll also find updates on classic Korean recipes, including a delicious version of japchae that comes together in an Instant Pot for a no-stress side or main dish. And don't forget the banchan: We've got pickled Korean pears, a sweet onion salad, and more. Check out the full collection below.
Photo by Kristin Teig1/43Pajeon (파 전 / Scallion Pancakes)
While this recipe features scallions, these pancakes can be filled with almost anything: garlic chives, ramps, chrysanthemum leaves. If you want something a little more substantial, add squid or shrimp cut into bite-sized pieces. This pajeon recipe was one of the favorite weeknight Korean recipes shared with us by Hooni Kim.
2/43Dakgangjeong (닭강정 / Korean Sweet, Crunchy Fried Chicken)
These sweet, crunchy Korean fried chicken wings will stay crispy for hours. Covered and refrigerated, they will even stay audibly crispy until the next day.
Photo by Joseph De Leo, Food Styling by Rebecca Jurkevich3/43Kimchi Fried Rice
This simple fried rice is pure comfort food—and it happens to be vegan if the kimchi you're using is made without seafood.
Joseph De Leo4/43Gamja Tang
Epi contributor and cookbook author Joanne Lee Molinaro transforms this traditionally pork-filled stew by using a veganized fish sauce she makes at home.
Photo by Joanne Lee Molinaro5/43Dooboo Jorim (Braised Tofu)
Sear and braise tofu with onions, carrots, and mushrooms, then pour a simple, spicy soy-sauce based dressing onto it for a dinner that practically makes itself.
- 6/43
Spicy Braised Tofu
Want to try another take on that same dish? Here, thick slices of pan-fried tofu quickly braise in a sweet-and-spicy sauce. A side of rice and sautéed greens turns it into a meal.
Photo by Yuki Sugiura7/43Korean Egg Bread (Gyeran Bbang)
Usually just a pancake-like dough with egg, this version sports bacon, tomato and gooey cheese for a completely gratifying breakfast.
Photo by Selina Lee8/43Instant Pot Japchae
A Korean classic of bouncy noodles, julienned vegetables, and a sweet-and-salty sauce—and this version only takes about 20 minutes.
Photo by Joseph De Leo, Food Styling by Micah Marie Morton9/43Spicy Pork Belly Sliders
Gochujang gives pork belly a nice kick and a deep, complex flavor in this sweet-and-spicy sandwich inspired by Korean jeyuk bokkeum.
Photo by Chelsea Kyle, Food Styling by Olivia Mack Anderson10/43Noodles with Chilled Tomato Broth
Inspired by the Korean soup kuksi, this chilled tomato broth is topped with noodles and crunchy vegetables for a refreshing summer dinner.
Photo by Alex Lau11/43Kimchi Udon with Scallions
The power trio of butter, kimchi, and gochujang produces an umami ballad so beautiful in this udon recipe, you’ll want to play it over and over again.
Gentl & Hyers12/43Spicy Kimchi Tofu Stew
This fiery vegetarian stew is spicy and filling without being heavy, thanks to the simmered tofu and rich egg yolks.

Michael Graydon14/43Kimchi-Braised Chicken With Bacon
Umami-packed kimchi makes this slow-cooked, tomato-based braise tangy, spicy, and deeply flavorful.
