Article by Gil "hannaone"
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Image by hannaone: Fusion Montage

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Historically, Korean Fusion cuisine has been a part of Korean culture since the beginning. By engaging other cultures, ideas and objects are always transferred, including new foods or ways to prepare them. Fusion foods were, in fact, the beginning of Korean cuisine's evolution.

A little history

The early Korean inhabitants were initially hunter/gatherers, but as time passed, they acquired the skills of farming and animal husbandry. From small tribes, they developed into villages, then city states, and eventually kingdoms. With these expansions came a blending of their respective cuisines. As trade was established with neighboring regions, there was an influx of new foods and concepts. Plants and animals from western Asia and the Middle East made their way through China to influence Korean dishes. Later on, trade with China and Japan brought in ingredients from the New World, most notably the chili pepper which became a staple in Korean cuisine.

Did you know?

There is a growing trend of food fusion, where ingredients and cooking styles from two or more cuisines are combined to produce unique and flavorful recipes.

The cumulative cuisine fusions of the past are now considered traditional, but contemporary Korean cuisine continues to develop.

In addition to adapting their cooking methods to incorporate local ingredients, Koreans who emigrated also adopt local dishes and modify them to include Korean favorites. When Korean émigrés returned to Korea, they brought back these new food concepts, contributing to its evolution. Chefs from Korea who train abroad and fast food giants opening franchises in Korea have also made a contribution to the food revolution.

In other countries, second and third generation immigrant families have adapted their traditional Korean cuisine to the local cuisine, while mixed culture families (Koreans who have married or been adopted into non-Korean families) create their own fusion of cuisines. For the sake of growing their customer base, Korean restaurants in other countries have created dishes that resonate with non-Koreans.

Get Fused

Traditional Korean cuisine is a feast for the senses. The visually stunning dishes, enticing aromas, and bold flavors tantalize the palate. From grilled meats with sweet and smoky flavors to beautifully presented royal dishes, hearty soups and stews, and fresh vegetables and herbs, this cuisine offers a diverse range of tastes. Featuring fermented pastes and sauces as well as a wide selection of fresh and dried seafood, Korean Fusion adds a modern twist to these traditional elements, resulting in a refreshing and one-of-a-kind dining experience.