Series

Print edition

100 Food Challenge

6. Miyeokguk (seaweed soup)

Published : Dec. 20, 2024 - 19:29:06 Updated : Dec. 23, 2024 - 13:35:12

Korea Herald

- Link copied!

A Korean birthday isn’t complete without miyeokguk — a comforting seaweed soup.

Traditionally prepared with a mild beef or seafood broth, this nourishing soup features miyeok (seaweed) and becomes richer when simmered for an extended period.

It is also thought to aid in postpartum recovery and promote breast milk production, making it a common choice for new mothers.

Despite its celebratory associations, some Koreans avoid consuming miyeokguk on exam days, as its slippery texture is thought to bring bad luck. The expression “I ate miyeokguk” has even evolved into a colloquial phrase meaning “I failed the exam.”

Try embracing the Korean tradition by celebrating a birthday with a warm bowl of miyeokguk!

(seaweed soup, Korean birthday soup, savory seaweed broth, traditional miyeokguk)

[{"ART_ID":10020585,"MAIN_THUMB":"\/news\/cms\/2024\/12\/23\/news-a.v1.20241219.aa6cb54d8f524978a9fa1f76a8c5bf80_T1.jpg","CODE_TYPE":"S","CODE_ID":"S410323","SERVICE_FLAG":"Y","CODE_NM_CATE":"Food","CODE_ENG_NM":"","LINK_URL":"","SERVICE_YMD":"2024-12-20","VIEW_YN":"Y","SUB_TITLE":"","SUMMARY":"Yukjeon is a classic Korean dish that elevates thin slices of lean, tender beef by coating them in a light batter of flour and egg before pan-frying to golden perfection. The light, crispy exterior created by the batter enhances the beef\u2019s natural flavor, offering a savory experience that\u2019s distinct from typical grilled beef. For ceremonial offerings or ancestral rites, thicker cuts of beef are often used, giving the dish a more substantial texture. For everyday meals, thinner slices are preferr","SERVICE_MM":"12","SERVICE_DD":"20","WRITERS":"Korea Herald","CONTENT_ATTR":"1","TITLE":"1. Yukjeon (pan-fried battered beef)","CODE_GRADE":"M","REG_ID":"jiminkim","SERVICE_MD":"12-20","SERVICE_DAYTIME":"2024-12-20 20:01:53","CODE_NM":"100 Food Challenge"},{"ART_ID":10020367,"MAIN_THUMB":"\/news\/cms\/2024\/12\/23\/news-a.v1.20241219.7907580010b548b9b84fa5471917cb48_T1.jpg","CODE_TYPE":"S","CODE_ID":"S410323","SERVICE_FLAG":"Y","CODE_NM_CATE":"Food","CODE_ENG_NM":"","LINK_URL":"","SERVICE_YMD":"2024-12-20","VIEW_YN":"Y","SUB_TITLE":"","SUMMARY":"Samgyeopsal, which literally translates to \u201Cthree-layered meat,\u201D is one of the most beloved Korean barbecue dishes, known for its affordability and perfect pairing with kimchi or soju. However, with its rising prices \u2014 averaging over 20,000 won ($14.60) for a 200 g serving at restaurants \u2014 it has been shedding that affordable reputation. Still, this dish remains a cherished favorite, celebrated for its crispier pork texture and savory flavor resulting from the perfect balance of fat and meat. Th","SERVICE_MM":"12","SERVICE_DD":"20","WRITERS":"Korea Herald","CONTENT_ATTR":"1","TITLE":"2. Samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly)","CODE_GRADE":"M","REG_ID":"2014023","SERVICE_MD":"12-20","SERVICE_DAYTIME":"2024-12-20 20:01:41","CODE_NM":"100 Food Challenge"}]

100 Food Challenge

100 foods to try: Are you up to the challenge?

Would you like to subscribe?

Most Read

Recommended Series