Korean food is not only delicious but also offers many health benefits. Staple dishes are heavy on nutrition and light on calories. Learn more about why Korean food is so healthy in the guide below.

3 Healthy Features of Korean Food

1. Focus on Veggies

Even though the most well-known Korean dishes feature stewed, grilled, or barbecued meats, many dishes spotlight vegetables. You’ll find vegetables in everything from soups and savory pancakes to banchan served before a meal. Veggies contain essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber and are naturally low in fat and cholesterol.

2. Fermented Foods

Kimchi is the most famous of Korean fermented foods and can be made from any kind of vegetable, although cabbage and other cruciferous veggies are most common. 

The dish is reported to offer protection from certain cancers. Fermented foods also provide healthy probiotics to aid digestion and balance beneficial gut bacteria. Kimchi’s spicy kick comes from a hearty dose of chili peppers, which may boost immunity and reduce inflammation and pain. 

3. Variety & Moderation

A typical Korean meal will include many different foods, from pickled vegetables to seafood and rice. True Korean cooking strives to feature all tastes at each meal: sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and sweet. Incorporating all of these flavors naturally ensures diners get vitamins, protein, fiber, healthy fats, and probiotics all in one sitting.

For healthy and delicious Korean food in Honolulu, head to New Shilawon Korean Restaurant. Serving lunch and dinner since 1994, this family-owned restaurant offers fresh, house-made, authentic Korean fare. Featuring local, high-quality meats, seafood, and produce, the dishes at New Shilawon are sure to please every palate. Catering and group dining facilities are also available. Call (808) 944-8700 to make a reservation, or view their menus online. Check out photos of their dishes on Facebook and Instagram.