How to: tips & tricks for a Korean BBQ

Become a Korean BBQ pro with these tips!

Korean barbecue is taking over the world! Okay, no, we shouldn't exaggerate, but still, restaurants serving Korean BBQ are popping up everywhere. It's a real hype. And if you, as a true foodie, want to stay on trend, you'll have to try Korean BBQ at some point. Sound easy? Not at all! Korean-style barbecue is completely different from the BBQs we're used to. In fact, it's more like our version of gourmet, but still different! That's why we're giving you some tips so you can sit down at the table like a true pro!

1. Make your choice! 

First, you'll have to make a choice. What do you want for your appetizer and main course? At most Korean BBQs, you do this by checking off your preferences on a piece of paper. Appetizers usually include sushi, a Korean omelet, dumplings, and more. For the main course, you select your favorite meat and fish, and there's plenty to choose from! From duck to squid to beef, there's something for everyone! My favorites are bulgogi, kimchi, and soju!

2. Side dishes

After you order, a waiter will bring several plates to your table. You usually can't choose these side dishes yourself, and they vary from restaurant to restaurant. The idea is to share these side dishes. But don't hold back! The plates are (usually) refilled free of charge and unlimited.

3. Let's bake!

After the appetizers, the waiter brings the plates of fish or meat to your table. Now it's your turn! Grill the meat on the griddle and wait impatiently! Is it ready? Then you can start, but also ask the waiter to replace the baking paper. This way, the flavors of the different types of fish and meat don't mix!

4. Attack! 

Take a lettuce leaf and place it in the palm of your hand. Dip a nice piece of meat in one of the sauces and place it on the lettuce. Then, choose which side dishes you'd like to add to your lettuce wrap. Garlic, shallot, etc.? The choice is yours! Form it into a ball and pop it in your mouth—yum! Surprise yourself with different combinations and enjoy! :-)

5. Dessert? 

Even if you're as full as a fiddle, try to save some room for dessert. A typical dessert is black sesame ice cream. So delicious! :-)

Now you're all set for your first Korean barbecue! Enjoy!

>> TIP <

>> Please note that your clothes may smell after a visit to the Korean barbecue!
>> Everyone eats from the same plates. So make sure your cutlery, in this case chopsticks, is clean before you take anything!