10 Refreshing Korean Summer Recipes to Beat the Heat

ByEmma

Discover the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine with these refreshing summer recipes. Perfect for beating the heat, these dishes are not only delicious but also easy to prepare.​

Contents

1. Naengmyeon (냉면) – Chilled Buckwheat Noodles

A quintessential Korean summer dish, Naengmyeon features chewy buckwheat noodles served in a tangy, icy broth. Often garnished with sliced cucumbers, boiled egg, and pear slices, it’s a refreshing meal that cools you down instantly.​

Pro Tip: For an extra kick, add a spoonful of mustard or vinegar to enhance the flavor.​

2. Samgyetang (삼계탕) – Ginseng Chicken Soup

Contrary to the idea of avoiding hot soups in summer, Koreans believe in “iyeol chiyeol” (이열치열), meaning to fight heat with heat. Samgyetang is a nourishing soup made with a whole young chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, ginseng, garlic, and jujube. It’s believed to replenish energy during the hot months.​

Pro Tip: Enjoy this dish on the hottest days, known as “Sambok,” to maximize its health benefits.​

3. Bibim Guksu (비빔국수) – Spicy Cold Noodles

This dish combines thin wheat noodles with a spicy, sweet, and tangy sauce made from gochujang (Korean red chili paste), vinegar, and sugar. Topped with fresh vegetables and sometimes a boiled egg, it’s a quick and flavorful meal.​

Pro Tip: Adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of gochujang to suit your taste.​

4. Oi Muchim (오이무침) – Spicy Cucumber Salad

A simple yet flavorful side dish, Oi Muchim consists of sliced cucumbers mixed with a spicy and tangy dressing. It’s a perfect accompaniment to any meal, adding a refreshing crunch.​

Pro Tip: Let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.​

5. Patbingsu (팥빙수) – Shaved Ice Dessert

A popular Korean dessert, Patbingsu features finely shaved ice topped with sweet red beans, condensed milk, and various fruits. It’s a delightful treat to cool down on a hot day.​

Pro Tip: Customize your Patbingsu with toppings like mochi, ice cream, or cereal for added texture and flavor.​

6. Kongguksu (콩국수) – Cold Soy Milk Noodles

Kongguksu is a unique dish featuring noodles served in a cold, creamy soy milk broth. It’s mildly seasoned and offers a nutty flavor, making it a refreshing and nutritious option for summer.​

Pro Tip: Chill the soy milk thoroughly before serving to enhance the cooling effect.​

7. Haemul Pajeon (해물파전) – Seafood Scallion Pancake

This savory pancake combines a variety of seafood with green onions in a crispy batter. Often enjoyed with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce and vinegar, it’s a popular dish during rainy summer days.​

Pro Tip: Use ice-cold water in the batter to achieve a crispier texture.​

8. Mul Naengmyeon (물냉면) – Cold Broth Noodles

Similar to Naengmyeon, Mul Naengmyeon features noodles in a cold, tangy broth but with a slightly different flavor profile. It’s garnished with slices of beef, cucumber, and a boiled egg.​

Pro Tip: Add a splash of vinegar and mustard to the broth for an extra zing.​

9. Chogye Guksu (초계국수) – Cold Chicken Noodle Soup

Chogye Guksu is a cold noodle soup made with shredded chicken and a tangy broth flavored with vinegar and mustard. It’s a light and refreshing dish perfect for hot days.​

Pro Tip: Use chilled broth and serve immediately to maintain its refreshing quality.​

10. Yeolmu Kimchi (열무김치) – Young Radish Kimchi

A seasonal kimchi made with young radish greens, Yeolmu Kimchi is lighter and more refreshing than traditional kimchi. It’s often enjoyed with cold noodles or rice.​

Pro Tip: Ferment for a shorter period to retain the crispness and fresh flavor.​

These Korean summer recipes offer a delightful way to enjoy the season’s flavors while keeping cool. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, tangy, or sweet, there’s a dish to satisfy every palate.​

For a visual guide on preparing these dishes, check out this helpful video:

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