by Irfan Redzwan
Koreans love their seafood, whether cooked, raw, or dare I say it, live. Spoon worms are a type of marine animal very commonly found in Korean fish markets. The phallic-like appearance of spoon worms, coupled with its rumoured aphrodisiac properties, earned them the nickname of “penis fish”. Usually eaten raw and live, gaebul are usually cut into bite-sized pieces which continue to wriggle around on the plate, before they are popped into our oral cavities. Apparently it tastes like saltwater.
Most often found in the southern parts of Korea, Chueotang is a delicacy often touted for its health properties. It is often served to patients with high blood pressure and obesity problems, as it contains unsaturated fats which help in reducing cholesterol levels. In addition, it contains calcium, proteins and vitamins and is also said to be great for the skin.
Chueotang is made by crushing and grounding entire mudfish, bones and all, and cooking it in a broth together with leeks, spring onions, doenjang (soybean paste), and gokchujang (red pepper paste).
Tarakjuk, or milk porridge, is one of the few Korean traditional foods that uses milk in its preparation. It is made by boiling milk and finely ground rice in water. Tarakjuk was traditionally served to rulers of the Joseon dynasty because of the multiple nutrients it contains and its many health benefits. It is purported to be able to strengthen the kidney, lungs, as well as the large intestine, among others.
Korea’s take on blowfish is something similar, though the regulations regarding the preparation and sale of this delicacy are much more lax and easier to find. Prices are also much more affordable than its Japanese counterpart. The most common way of preparation is bokjili, a broth comprising blowfish meat, red pepper, and herbs.
Often served with alcohol, beondaegi is essentially steamed or boiled silkworm pupae served in a cup, together with all the juice that is a result from the steaming. The snack can often be bought from street vendors, as well as in watering holes and restaurants.
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