For exchange students, just one thing gets in your way: Money. Though Korea is a good place for dining out(prices are relatively cheap), continuous dining out might be ‘uh-oh’ to your bank account. It is really hard to resist all those mouth watering flavors each restaurant gives you. Do you want some cheap meals but want some restaurant quality meals? I get it I get it. That’s why I’m here today, trying to tell you about a solution: the meal kit!
What is Meal kit?
Meal kit is a box containing all the ingredients you need for cooking, cut and trimmed. Plus the sauces are included proportionally, making sure you don’t spoil them with over-running sauce or the opposite. Plus, you can subtract or add ingredients, as you prefer. All you have to do is simple, just boil it, stir it whatever instruction says. It usually takes less than 10 minutes. Sooo simple and fast. That’s one of the reason why It is beloved item for busy workers in Korea.
Tip: If you are uncertain about reading Korean recipe, don’t worry, papago translator(as I have mentioned in “:must have apps in Korea”) translates “image”. All you have to do is take a picture, and wait for it’s translation! (Most of the Korean translations in papago is precise, since it was developed by Korean company naver. )
I’m here to introduce 6 different meal kits, 3 of them are Korean food, 3 of them are non-Korean meals. Making it variant for your taste! If it is not enough for you,
*This posting is part of Coupang Partners’ activities and receives a certain amount of commission accordingly.
Chicken Kalguksu
Kalguksu is a popular Korean noodle dish known for its comforting and flavorful qualities. The name “kalguksu” translates to “knife-cut noodles” in English, which refers to the traditional method of making the noodles by hand. The dish is typically made with wheat flour noodles that are sliced into thin, flat pieces using a knife, resulting in irregular shapes and sizes.
The noodles are usually served in a savory broth made from chicken, seafood, or vegetables. The broth is often seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and other aromatic ingredients to enhance the flavor. The dish is frequently garnished with vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, carrots, and onions. Sometimes, it may also include pieces of chicken, seafood, or dumplings to add more variety and texture.
Kalguksu meal kit can be purchased here👇
이 포스팅은 쿠팡 파트너스 활동의 일환으로, 이에 따른 일정액의 수수료를 제공받습니다.
This posting is part of Coupang Partners’ activities and receives a certain amount of commission accordingly.
Bulgogi Jeongol
Bulgogi Jeongol is a popular Korean hot pot dish that combines the flavors of bulgogi and various vegetables in a hearty and flavorful stew. “Jeongol” refers to a type of Korean hot pot, where a variety of ingredients are cooked together in a large, communal pot at the dining table.
In Bulgogi Jeongol, the marinated beef is combined with an assortment of vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, onions, green onions, tofu, and sometimes glass noodles (also known as sweet potato noodles or dangmyeon). These ingredients are all placed in a pot with a savory broth made from beef or anchovies, often flavored with soy sauce and other seasonings.
As the ingredients cook in the broth, they absorb the delicious flavors, and the combination of tender bulgogi beef, vegetables, and the savory broth creates a satisfying and comforting meal.
Bulgogi Jeongol meal kit can be purchased here👇
이 포스팅은 쿠팡 파트너스 활동의 일환으로, 이에 따른 일정액의 수수료를 제공받습니다.
This posting is part of Coupang Partners’ activities and receives a certain amount of commission accordingly.
Budae-jjigae
Budae-jjigae, also known as “Army Base Stew” or “Korean Army Stew,” is a unique and popular Korean dish that has a flavorful and filling taste.
The key components of budae-jjigae include:
Kimchi: Korean fermented cabbage, an essential ingredient in many Korean dishes.
Spam: Canned, cooked pork product from the United States that was commonly used in military rations.
Hot dogs or sausages: Another processed meat product from the U.S. military rations.
Canned baked beans: Also a product from the U.S. military rations.
Tofu: Often added for a different texture and to provide additional protein.
Ramen noodles: Instant noodles, which have become a popular addition to budae-jjigae over time.
Vegetables: Onions, scallions, and other vegetables are added for flavor and nutrition.
Seasonings: The broth is typically flavored with gochujang (Korean red chili paste) and other seasonings to create a spicy and savory base.
All these ingredients are cooked together in a large pot, creating a hearty and flavorful stew. The combination of the different ingredients may sound unusual, but the result is a tasty and comforting dish that has become a beloved part of Korean cuisine.
Budae-jjigae meal kit can be purchased here👇
이 포스팅은 쿠팡 파트너스 활동의 일환으로, 이에 따른 일정액의 수수료를 제공받습니다.
This posting is part of Coupang Partners’ activities and receives a certain amount of commission accordingly.
Beef chopped steak
chopped steak, is a type of ground beef patty that has been seasoned and shaped into a flat, oval or round shape. Unlike traditional burgers, which are typically made from ground beef formed into a round patty, chop steak is usually a bit larger and thinner, with a more irregular shape.
The name “chop steak” comes from the method of preparation, where the meat is often “chopped” or mixed with various ingredients to enhance its flavor and tenderness. Common seasonings and additions include onions, garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, and various herbs and spices. The mixture is then shaped and sometimes flattened with the back of a knife, hence the term “chop.”
Chop steak is commonly pan-fried, grilled, or broiled until it reaches the desired level of doneness. It is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, often accompanied by side dishes such as mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a salad. Additionally, chop steak can be topped with gravy, sautéed mushrooms, or onions to add extra flavor and moisture.
chopped steak meal kit can be purchased here👇
이 포스팅은 쿠팡 파트너스 활동의 일환으로, 이에 따른 일정액의 수수료를 제공받습니다.
This posting is part of Coupang Partners’ activities and receives a certain amount of commission accordingly.
Gambas al ajillo
Gambas al ajillo, also known as “Garlic Shrimp,” is a popular Spanish dish that consists of shrimp cooked in olive oil with garlic and red pepper flakes. The name “gambas” translates to shrimp in Spanish, and “al ajillo” means “with garlic.”
The dish is simple yet incredibly flavorful, showcasing the natural taste of the shrimp while infusing it with the rich flavors of garlic and olive oil. It is a classic tapas dish served in Spain and is also popular in other Spanish-speaking countries.
To prepare Gambas al ajillo, the shrimp and garlic are quickly sautéed in the olive oil until the shrimp turns pink and is cooked through. The garlic should be lightly browned, not burnt, to preserve its flavor. The red pepper flakes are added during the cooking process to infuse the dish with a mild heat.
The final result is a delectable combination of tender, juicy shrimp infused with the flavors of garlic, olive oil, and a touch of spiciness. It is typically served hot, either as a tapas appetizer or as a main course accompanied by crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Gambas al ajillo is beloved for its simplicity and bold flavors, making it a delightful and satisfying dish for seafood enthusiasts and lovers of Spanish cuisine.
Gambas al ajillo meal kit can be purchased here👇
이 포스팅은 쿠팡 파트너스 활동의 일환으로, 이에 따른 일정액의 수수료를 제공받습니다.
This posting is part of Coupang Partners’ activities and receives a certain amount of commission accordingly.
Pad thai
Pad Thai is a popular Thai stir-fried noodle dish that has gained worldwide fame and is often considered one of Thailand’s signature dishes. It is a delightful combination of stir-fried rice noodles, eggs, tofu or shrimp, bean sprouts, and a tangy, sweet, and savory sauce made from tamarind paste, fish sauce, sugar, and various seasonings.
Pad Thai is typically garnished with lime wedges, fresh cilantro, and sometimes chili flakes or chili sauce to add heat for those who enjoy spicier flavors.
This dish is a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and colors, showcasing the balance of sweet, sour, and savory tastes that Thai cuisine is known for. It can be found in many Thai restaurants worldwide and is beloved by both locals and tourists alike. Its widespread popularity has led to various regional and international variations, but the classic Pad Thai remains a favorite for those seeking a taste of authentic Thai street food.
Pad thai meal kit can be purchased here👇
이 포스팅은 쿠팡 파트너스 활동의 일환으로, 이에 따른 일정액의 수수료를 제공받습니다.
This posting is part of Coupang Partners’ activities and receives a certain amount of commission accordingly.
Meal kits are convenient way to keep with budget yet satisfying desire for restaurant quality meals. Hope this article helped with your problem, I’ll see you in the next article! See you soon!!