What Are Banchan? A Simple Guide to Korean Side Dishes

If you’ve been to a Korean BBQ restaurant, you’ve probably noticed the table filling up with small dishes even before the meat arrives. These little plates are called banchan, and they’re one of the best parts of Korean dining. Here’s a simple guide for beginners.

1. What Is Banchan?

Banchan (반찬) means “side dishes” in Korean.They are small portions of various foods served in the center of the table for everyone to share.

They’re meant to:

• balance the flavors of the main meal

• refresh your palate

• add variety

Most Korean restaurants offer free refills—just ask politely.

2. Common Types of Banchan

✔ Kimchi

Fermented spicy cabbage.Tangy, crunchy, and a Korean essential.

✔ Kkakdugi (Cubed Radish Kimchi)

Crispy, juicy, and a little sweeter than cabbage kimchi.

✔ Kongnamul (Seasoned Soybean Sprouts)

Mild, crunchy, lightly seasoned with sesame oil.

✔ Gamja Salad (Korean Potato Salad)

Creamy, slightly sweet, and super popular with first-timers.

✔ Eomuk (Fish Cake Stir-Fry)

Savory, soft, and slightly sweet — a customer favorite.

✔ Japchae (Glass Noodle Stir-Fry)

Chewy noodles with veggies, sesame oil, and soy sauce.

✔ Pickled Radish

Bright, crunchy, refreshing — perfect with fatty meat.

✔ Seaweed Salad

Light, tangy, and full of minerals.

3. Why Are Banchan Served With Korean BBQ?

Because they balance everything.

• BBQ is rich → banchan is refreshing

• Meat is heavy → banchan is light

• BBQ is salty → banchan is sweet or vinegary

Every bite tastes different, which keeps the meal exciting.

4. How to Eat Banchan Properly

There’s no strict rule, but here’s how Koreans do it:

• Eat banchan between bites of meat

• Mix different ones for new flavors

• Put banchan inside lettuce wraps

• Ask for refills if you want more

They’re meant to be shared by the whole table, not eaten by just one person.

Final Thoughts

Banchan is a huge part of Korean culture.It’s colorful, flavorful, and designed to make the BBQ experience balanced and enjoyable.Try everything — you might find a new favorite dish.