Why choose Korean catering?
Korean catering is a great option for events of all sizes, thanks to the rich and bold flavors of Korean cuisine and diverse menu options to suit a wide range of dietary needs and preferences. Korean caterers create an authentic culinary experience by serving traditional menu items prepared with fresh, quality ingredients and infused with Korean culture.
What are the most traditional Korean dishes?
From small side dishes to main courses, traditional Korean dishes are bursting with rich, spicy flavor. Elegant presentation with attention to the smallest details also ensures these dishes look as great as they taste.
Here are some of the most traditional Korean dishes that have made their way into the hearts (and bellies!) of people all over the world:
- Bibimbap: Bibimbap is a traditional Korean dish that consists of rice, fresh veggies, beef, gochujang red chili paste, and fried egg. Bibimbap is served in a bowl, and the egg sits on top.
- Samgyetang: This tasty ginseng chicken soup is prepared with garlic, Korean red ginseng, spring onions, and spices. In Korean culture, people consume samgyetang for its warmth, delicious taste, and health benefits. Samgyetang is believed to help ward off ailments, especially when it's enjoyed on the warmest days on the lunar calendar.
- Korean fried chicken: Fried to perfection and coated with spicy sweet and sour sauce, Korean fried chicken is a national dish that's served as both a starter or main dish. Korean chefs use tender, young chicken meat, and they paint the sweet and sour coating on by hand.
- Kimchi: Kimchi, or fermented cabbage, is a beloved dish that's served with every traditional Korean meal. Known for its health benefits and crunchy texture, kimchi is traditionally served with other starters such as rice, noodles, or soup.
What are typical Korean side dishes?
Side dishes are a big part of Korean meals, as every dish is served at once and sides offer a nice amount of variety in taste and texture. Some common Korean side dishes include:
- Spicy cucumber salad with soy sauce, red chili flakes, green onion, garlic, and sesame oil
- Spicy Korean rice cakes simmered in anchovy stock and drizzled with sesame oil
- Korean bean sprouts boiled in salt water and topped with garlic, onions, black pepper, and sesame oil
- Korean braised potatoes sautéed with garlic, soy sauce, and sugar, and topped with sesame seeds and sesame oil
- Red onion pickled in rice vinegar, sweet Japanese cooking wine, brown sugar, and soy sauce
Is there anything unique about ordering Korean catering?
Korean restaurants usually provide chopsticks with catering orders, but they may not include traditional plastic cutlery unless it's requested. If your attendees aren't familiar with chopsticks, you might want to ask for additional cutlery.
Many traditional Korean dishes are hot and spicy, which is great for attendees who enjoy a bit of extra kick. When you search for Korean catering, keep an eye out for options that let you customize foods for milder palates. If your event is buffet-style, you can also ask your caterer to label the spicy dishes to prevent surprises.
Can Korean catering accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies?
Caterers are familiar with common food allergies and dietary restrictions, and Korean catering managers are typically happy to make accommodations. When you meet with or speak to your catering manager, provide a list of the potential allergens and dietary needs of your guests so they can plan accordingly.
How does a Korean meal differ from a Western one?
Presentation is one of the most unique differences between Korean and Western meals. Korean meals consist of up to 12 dishes, including rice and soup, and each dish is served at the same time. Korean cuisine uses unique meats such as raw beef and octopus, and dessert isn't usually served at the end of a Korean meal. Sweets such as rice cakes and poached pears are enjoyed separately with tea or reserved for special occasions.
With Korean food catering, there's flexibility when it comes to presentation. You can opt for a traditional Korean serving style, or your meal can be served Western style with multiple courses and dessert options. If you have a special request in terms of serving style or presentation, let your caterer know your preferences when you place your order.
