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Asian cuisine has been popular in the U.S. for many decades. From coast to coast—and even on the Hawaiian Islands—it is difficult to travel far without encountering a Chinese food restaurant or Japanese sushi bar. Most recently, however, Korean cuisine has experienced a rise in popularity in cities around the country. Each year, dozens of new Korean restaurants open, providing guests with nutrient-rich and delicious dishes. If you have never eaten Korean food before, you may be curious about this style of cuisine and the traditions surrounding it.

The Top 5 Fascinating Facts About Korean Food

1. Bulgogi Is the Signature Meat

When you visit virtually any Korean restaurant, you may notice bulgogi beef on the menu. Marinated in sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and onions, bulgogi is the signature meat in most Korean meals. In restaurants, it may be served cooked or raw to be cooked at the table.

2. All Courses Are Served at Once

One of the most interesting features of Korean dining is how the meal is served. Unlike most cuisines, which bring out courses of soups, salads, appetizers, entrees, and desserts, Korean restaurants serve everything at once. This allows you to pick from different dishes at will until you are entirely satisfied.

3. The Food Is Served Very Fresh

Korean FoodKorean food is known for its freshness. In many restaurants, the food is served raw to be cooked at the table or is prepared to order. The food can be so fresh that you may even encounter seafood dishes where the fish is still moving.

4. Fermented Food Is Part of the Meal

In addition to many fresh foods, fermented foods are part of the meal as well. These fermented foods can include mung beans, pickled cabbage, and a staple food known as Kimchi. These fermented dishes are thought to have healing properties and promote healthy digestion.

5. Metal Chopsticks Are the Utensils of Choice

Like most Asian cuisine, Korean food is eaten using chopsticks or a spoon. However, their utensils are unique in that the chopsticks are made of metal. Unlike China and Japan, which were rich in bamboo and other types of wood, wood was limited in Korea, which led to the use of metal for utensils. Korean chopsticks are also shorter and feature a blunt end.

 

For great Korean food in Honolulu, HI, check out New Shilawon Korean Restaurant. This restaurant specializes in Korean BBQ, an all you can eat buffet, and takeout. To view their full menu, visit them online or call (808) 944-8700 today to inquire about their dishes. For additional information, photos, and reviews check out their Facebook, Yelp, and Instagram pages.

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