Online Korean Supermarket

Key Korean pantry staples include:

• Gochujang: A spicy and savoury red chilli paste used in stews, marinades, and sauces.
• Doenjang: A fermented soybean paste, similar to miso, used in soups and marinades.
• Kimchi: Fermented cabbage or radish, a staple side dish in Korean meals.
• Sesame oil: A rich, nutty oil used in marinades, stir-fries, and as a finishing touch.
• Black bean paste (Chunjang): Used in dishes like jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles).

Common types of Korean noodles include:

• Ramyeon: Korean instant noodles with bold flavours, often enjoyed as a quick meal.
• Japchae noodles: Sweet potato glass noodles used in stir-fried dishes with vegetables and meats.
• Udon noodles: Thick, chewy noodles often used in soups.
• Naengmyeon: Thin, chewy noodles typically served cold with a tangy broth in summer.

The main types of rice used in Korean cuisine include:

• Short-grain white rice: Also known as sticky rice, it’s commonly served with most Korean meals.
• Multigrain rice (Japgokbap): A mix of white rice, barley, and other grains, adding flavour and nutrients.
• Glutinous rice: Often used in rice cakes (tteok) and desserts for its sticky texture.

Some favourite Korean snacks include:

• Choco Pie: A marshmallow-filled snack cake coated in chocolate.
• Pepero: Biscuit sticks coated in chocolate, available in various flavours.
• Honey Butter Chips: Sweet and salty potato chips with honey and butter flavour.
• Gim (seaweed snacks): Crispy roasted seaweed, often lightly salted, great for snacking or as a side dish.
• Tteokbokki chips: Snacks inspired by the famous spicy rice cakes, with a similar flavour profile.

Many Korean pantry staples like gochujang, doenjang, and sesame oil are suitable for vegetarians and vegans. However, some products may contain animal-based ingredients, such as fish sauce in kimchi, so it's important to check the labels for specific dietary information.

Korean ingredients can be used in a variety of ways. For example:

• Gochujang: Add to bibimbap, stews, or use in sauces and marinades for a spicy kick.
• Doenjang: Use in soups, stews, or as a base for marinades.
• Kimchi: Serve as a side dish or incorporate into pancakes, fried rice, or stews.
• Sesame oil: Drizzle over cooked dishes or use in marinades for a nutty flavour.
• Black bean paste: Use in stir-fries or as the main ingredient in jjajangmyeon.

• Gochujang and doenjang should be refrigerated after opening to maintain freshness.
• Soy sauce and sesame oil can be stored in a cool, dry place but may also be refrigerated for optimal quality.
• Store noodles and rice in airtight containers in a cool, dry place.
• Snacks like Honey Butter Chips and Pepero should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Yes! With ingredients like gochujang, doenjang, and kimchi, you can easily create popular Korean dishes such as bibimbap, kimchi pancakes, jjajangmyeon, and more. These pantry staples are great for bringing authentic Korean flavours to your cooking.