Whether it’s your first time visiting an authentic Korean restaurant, or you’ve been there many times and want to expand your horizons, it’s helpful to understand the common Korean dishes to expect. There are certain side dishes you can expect to see at every restaurant.

Feel free to pick your favorites to accompany your entrée during your next meal at New Shilawon Korean Restaurant in Honolulu, HI:

1. Kongnamul Muchim

This dish of seasoned soybean sprouts is a classic in authentic Korean foods. The soybean sprouts have a tasty, nutty flavor and a crunchy texture. The dish is usually lightly seasoned, but it may also have red chili pepper flakes added or soy sauce for extra flavoring. This vegetarian dish is delicious, which may be why you’ll find it at almost every Korean dinner table.

2. Hobak Bokkeum

This is another vegetable-based dish that is often served alongside meat dishes. The thick sliced, stir-fried zucchini can be paired with salted shrimp, called saeujeot, and garlic. This perfect mix of flavors means it can stand on its own but isn’t so overwhelming that you won’t want to pair it with another dish.

3.  Shigumchi Namool

Korean spinach is very popular and arguably much tastier than your typical spinach salad. This dish is tossed with a light seasoning of salt and sesame oil and topped with sesame seeds. If you’re cooking this dish at home, you can also add flavors like doenjang or gochujang.

4. Yeondubu Dalgyal Jjim

Tofu and egg pudding is delicious and packed full of protein. It can be served as a side dish or eaten on its own. The mashed tofu is mixed with beaten eggs, and it can be mixed with other flavors, such as salted shrimp. It’s then cooked, which gives it a custard-like texture.

If you want to try perfectly prepared, authentic Korean dishes, visit New Shilawon Korean Restaurant. They are a family-owned private dining and takeout establishment offering freshly prepared food every day. They are particularly loved for their all-you-can-eat buffet and their Korean BBQ. Visit their website or call them at (808) 944-8700 to make your reservation.