Banchan

Banchan refers to an assortment of small dishes served alongside cooked rice in Korean cuisine. These side dishes are a quintessential part of every Korean meal, providing a wide variety of flavors, textures, and nutrients.

As a staple in Korean dining, banchan serves to complement and enhance the overall dining experience.

The History Banchan in Korean Cuisine

Historically, Korea was a relatively poor country, and meat was a precious commodity that was difficult to obtain. Common people couldn’t afford to eat meat regularly, so vegetables were used in many meals as meat substitutes. Some ban chan like dishes may have been present during early Korean history.

The tradition of serving banchan dates back to the Three Kingdoms of Korea period (57 BC – 668 AD). During this period the major Korean Political Entities embraced Budhism as state religion and implemented an almost Korea wide ban on the slaughter of animals for meat. With this ban vegetable dishes rose in prominence and most likely resulted in the appearance of banchan as it is known today. 

Initially, banchan was limited to simple offerings such as vegetables, pickles, and kimchi. However, as Korean cuisine evolved, so did the side dishes, eventually becoming an integral part of the dining culture.

The cuisine served to Korean kings during the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910) is known as hanshik. It embodies mild and refined flavors, distinct from the bold spiciness found in everyday Korean cuisine. In hanshik, 12 rarefied banchan dishes were served to the king. These dishes showcased the artistry and culinary finesse of the royal kitchen.

The significance of banchan lies in its ability to showcase the diversity of Korean flavors, while also reflecting the importance of communal eating in Korean society.

Common Types of Banchan

There is an extensive array of banchan dishes, with popular options including kimchi (fermented vegetables), namul (seasoned vegetables), jorim (braised dishes), jeon (pan-fried items), and much more.

Another type of banchan that is gaining popularity is Fusion, with small dishes offering bulgogi tacos and kimchi quesadillas, or serving a Korean twist on American style potato salad.

These dishes vary in flavor profiles, preparation methods, and ingredients, offering a harmonious balance of tastes and textures to accompany the main meal.

Importance of Banchan in Korean Dining Culture

Korean meals are known for their vibrant array of flavors and textures, and at the heart of this experience are banchan. These small side dishes are more than just accompaniments; they embody the essence of Korean hospitality and culinary tradition.

Banchan is served in small portions but with a wide variety, ensuring every palate is catered to. Each dish is prepared, highlighting seasonal ingredients and designed to complement the main dish, whether it’s a hearty stew or a simple bowl of rice. 

Banchan arrays can also reflect the formality of the occaision with the fewest number of dishes set for informal dining. 

 In Korean cuisine, the arrangement of ban chan (traditional side dishes) is often based on the number of dishes served. Here are the specific names:

삼첩 (Samcheop): This refers to a table setting with three  dishes.
오첩 (Ocheop): Five dishes are served in this setting.
칠첩 (Chilcheop): Seven dishes grace the table.
구첩 (Gucheop): For a more elaborate spread, nine dishes are presented

The presence of ban chan on the dining table represents abundance and variety, turning even the simplest meal into a feast and allowing everyone to enjoy multiple dishes in one sitting.

It's a communal experience that promotes sharing and brings people together in every Korean meal.

Make Banchan at Home

Creating banchan at home can be a delightful exploration of Korean flavors. The key to authentic banchan lies in fresh ingredients and the artful balance of seasoning. It begins with staples like soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes).

Common dishes include kimchi, made by fermenting vegetables with spices, and namul, featuring seasoned and sautéed vegetables. Both necessitate time and patience but are absolutely rewarding.

Aspiring cooks can start with easier dishes, such as Japchae (stir-fried glass noodles) or cucumber salad. These require simple ingredients and take little time to prepare. Frequent practice and a spirit of experimentation will soon turn beginners into banchan experts.

Where to Find Authentic Banchan

To experience authentic banchan, exploring local Korean markets or restaurants is ideal. Korean markets often have a section dedicated to freshly made banchan, offering an assortment of classics like pickled radishes, seasoned spinach, or braised tofu.

These establishments provide a glimpse into the traditional banchan, allowing one to bring a piece of Korean dining culture into your home.

For a more immersive experience, dining at a Korean restaurant presents the opportunity to enjoy banchan in its native context – as a prelude to a main dish, enveloped in the warm ambiance of a Korean dining setting.

Finally, for those preferring the touch of homemade banchan, hanna-one.com stands as an invaluable resource, offering an extensive collection of recipes, ingredient guides, and cultural insights to guide both novices and seasoned cooks in their journey to recreate authentic Korean banchan in their kitchens.

Tips for Serving and Enjoying Banchan

1. Embrace Variety
One of the joys of banchan is the diverse array of flavors, textures, and colors it offers. When serving banchan, aim to provide a variety of different dishes, including fermented vegetables, marinated meats, and spicy pickles. This variety adds excitement to the meal and allows diners to experience a wide range of flavors.

2. Serve in Small Dishes
Traditionally, banchan is served in small dishes, allowing for individual portions of each side dish. This not only makes for an attractive table setting but also allows diners to sample and enjoy each banchan dish at their own pace. It's an excellent way to encourage sharing and communal dining.

3. Complement Main Dishes
Banchan is meant to complement and enhance the flavors of the main meal. When serving Korean side dishes, consider the flavors and ingredients of the main course to ensure that the dishes are well-matched. This thoughtful pairing can elevate the dining experience and create a harmonious balance of flavors.

Embracing the Diversity of Banchan

Banchan continues to evolve, adapting to contemporary tastes while honoring its roots. From sesame-cucumber salad to fiery kimchi, banchan remains an integral part of Korean meals.

Whether you're a food enthusiast or a home cook, exploring the world of Korea's "Small Dishes" is sure to bring a new level of enjoyment to your meals.

Article by Gil "hannaone"
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