From Sea to Bowl: The Journey of Abalone Porridge in Jeju
Abalone porridge is a beloved dish in Jeju Island, South Korea, and is often enjoyed as a comforting meal. Made with fresh abalone, the porridge is rich, creamy, and delicious, with a savoury flavour that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Jeju Island is known for its abundance of fresh seafood, and abalone is one of the most popular ingredients in Korean cuisine. The island is home to many restaurants that serve abalone porridge, but one of the most famous is Myeongjin Jeonbok, which is located on the eastern side of the island. This eatery is popular among both locals and tourists, and is a must-visit if you want to experience dining like a local.
To enjoy abalone porridge, simply scoop a spoonful of the creamy, savoury porridge into your mouth and savour the delicious flavour. The abalone adds a unique texture and taste to the dish, making it a favourite among seafood lovers. Whether you're looking for a comforting meal or a taste of authentic Korean cuisine, abalone porridge is a dish you won't want to miss when visiting Jeju Island.
Key Takeaways
- Abalone porridge is a popular dish in Jeju Island, South Korea, and is often enjoyed as a comforting meal.
- Myeongjin Jeonbok is one of the most famous restaurants on the island that serves abalone porridge.
- Abalone porridge is a must-try dish for seafood lovers and those looking for an authentic taste of Korean cuisine.
Exploring Jeju's Abalone Porridge
What Is Abalone Porridge?
Abalone porridge, also known as Jeonbokjuk, is a traditional Korean dish made with fresh abalone, rice, and other ingredients. It is a popular dish in Jeju Island, where fresh abalone is abundant. The porridge is known for its rich, creamy, and savoury taste, making it a favourite among seafood lovers.
Cultural Significance in Jeju
Abalone porridge has cultural significance in Jeju Island. The dish is considered a nutritional supplement and digestive aid, especially for women. It is believed to help improve skin health and boost the immune system. The dish is also associated with the haenyeo, female divers who collect seafood from the ocean floor.
Preparing the Dish
To prepare the dish, fresh abalone is soaked in water and then sliced. The sliced abalone is then cooked with rice in a pot with sesame oil and salt. The mixture is boiled until the rice is fully cooked, and the abalone is tender. The dish can be garnished with green onions, sesame seeds, and other seasonings.
If you want to try making abalone porridge at home, here's a simple recipe to follow:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice
- 4 cups water
- 4 fresh abalone
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp salt
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Preparation:
- Soak the abalone in water for 30 minutes.
- Slice the abalone into small pieces.
- Rinse the rice and put it into a pot with 4 cups of water.
- Add the sliced abalone, sesame oil, and salt to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
- Use a kitchen brush or toothbrush to remove any impurities from the abalone.
- Serve the porridge hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Enjoying Abalone Porridge
If you're a seafood lover and happen to be in Jeju, you must try the iconic dish of abalone porridge. It's a popular health food, well-loved for its delicate flavour, which used to be exclusively served to royals. Now, you can find it easily all over the island.
Serving Suggestions
Abalone porridge is typically served in a stone pot with sliced raw abalones and garnished with sesame seeds and carrots. The porridge itself is creamy, savoury, and delicious. You can also try abalone sizzling stone pot rice, which is equally delicious.
To enjoy it to the fullest, mix the sliced raw abalones into the porridge and let it cook for a few minutes. This will give the porridge a richer flavour. You can also add some side dishes to complement the dish. Some popular choices include kimchi, pickled radish, and soybean sprouts.
Where to Find the Best in Jeju
There are many restaurants in Jeju that serve abalone porridge, but if you want to try the best, head to Myeongjin Jeonbok. This restaurant is located on the eastern side of Jeju Island and is probably the most well-known eatery to serve not just only abalone porridge but an abalone feast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best abalone porridge in Seogwipo?
Seogwipo is home to many restaurants that serve abalone porridge, but some of the most popular ones are Myeongjin Jeonbok, Jeju Gukbab, and Gwangchigi Beach. You can try visiting these restaurants to taste the best abalone porridge in Seogwipo.
How much does abalone porridge typically cost in Jeju?
The cost of abalone porridge in Jeju can vary depending on the restaurant you visit and the size of the portion you order. However, on average, you can expect to pay around 12,000 to 20,000 KRW for a bowl of abalone porridge.
Could you share a traditional recipe for Jeju abalone porridge?
To make Jeju abalone porridge, you will need fresh abalone, rice, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, soy sauce, and salt. First, cook the rice with garlic and ginger. Then, add the abalone to the rice and cook until the abalone is tender. Finally, add sesame oil, soy sauce, and salt to taste. You can adjust the ingredients and seasonings according to your preference.
What are some popular reviews of abalone porridge restaurants in Jeju?
Many visitors to Jeju have praised Myeongjin Jeonbok for their delicious abalone porridge. Some have also recommended Jeju Gukbab and Gwangchigi Beach for their tasty abalone dishes.
What items are commonly featured on a Jeju abalone porridge menu?
Apart from abalone porridge, many restaurants in Jeju also offer other abalone dishes such as grilled abalone, abalone hot stone rice, and abalone soup. You can also find other seafood dishes such as grilled fish and seafood stew on the menu.
What are the health benefits associated with eating abalone porridge?
Abalone is a nutritious seafood that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Abalone porridge is believed to have many health benefits such as improving digestion, boosting the immune system, and promoting healthy skin. Additionally, abalone is known to contain high levels of iodine, which can help regulate thyroid function.