Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors and deep-rooted cultural traditions, making it the perfect choice for any celebration. During holidays, Korean families come together to enjoy a variety of delicious dishes that are not only tasty but also symbolic of prosperity, health, and happiness. Whether it’s Lunar New Year (Seollal) or Chuseok, Korean holiday meals are often rich in history and meaning, with each dish offering something special. From savory stews to sweet rice cakes, the flavors and techniques passed down through generations ensure that every meal is a memorable experience.
One of the highlights of Korean holiday recipes is tteok (rice cakes), which are essential during these occasions. These chewy, sweet treats are made in various shapes and flavors, each symbolizing different blessings. Another key feature of Korean holiday meals is jeon (savory pancakes), which come in a variety of fillings such as vegetables, meat, and seafood. These dishes are often served as part of a grand spread that includes soups, side dishes, and steamed meats, offering a balance of flavors, textures, and colors.
For those interested in exploring these culinary traditions, Korean holiday recipes are not just a way to celebrate but a chance to experience the rich culture and history of Korea through food. The ingredients may range from simple to complex, but the result is always a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply looking to try something new, these recipes will bring the spirit of Korean holidays into your kitchen, inviting warmth and joy into your home.
01. Easy Korean Meat & Tofu Patties
Korean Meat & Tofu Patties
Cooks in 35 minutesDifficulty: EasyGet ready to savor the tasty and juicy Korean Meat & Tofu Patties, or Wanja-jeon! Perfect for everyday meals or special occasions, this recipe combines ground beef, tofu, and fresh veggies into delicious patties that are pan-fried to golden perfection. Easy to make with affordable ingredients, these savory bites will become a favorite in your kitchen repertoire. Whether you’re packing a hearty lunch box or entertaining friends, Wanja-jeon delivers flavor and satisfaction every time. Follow along with our step-by-step guide and impress your family with this classic Korean dish!
Korean Meat & Tofu Patties (Wanja-jeon) are savory, easy-to-make pan-fried patties combining ground beef, tofu, and fresh veggies, perfect for any meal or occasion.
02. Homemade Sweet Korean Rice Punch
Homemade Sweet Korean Rice Punch
Cooks in 410 minutesDifficulty: EasyExperience the authentic taste of Korea with our Homemade Sweet Korean Rice Punch, or Sikhye! This traditional dessert drink combines fermented barley malt and rice to create a delectably malty and refreshing beverage that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served chilled as a sweet treat or frozen into a slushy delight, this easy-to-follow recipe promises a richer malt flavor than store-bought versions. Delight your taste buds and impress your guests with this timeless Korean favorite, straight from your kitchen to the table. Elevate your dessert game with this irresistibly sweet and wholesome rice punch!
Homemade Sweet Korean Rice Punch (Sikhye) is a refreshing, malty dessert drink made from fermented barley malt and rice, offering a richer flavor than store-bought versions and perfect for any occasion.
03. Easy Crispy Korean Ginger Cookies
Crispy Korean Ginger Cookies
Cooks in 80 minutesDifficulty: EasyDive into the delightful crunch of Crispy Korean Ginger Cookies! This traditional treat combines the warm spices of ginger and cinnamon with the rich texture of pine nuts, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for family gatherings or a cozy evening at home, these cookies are simple to make and irresistibly tasty. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises a fun and rewarding experience. Join countless others in savoring this beloved Korean classic that’s sure to become a household favorite!
Crispy Korean Ginger Cookies combine the warm spices of ginger and cinnamon with pine nuts, offering a delightful crunch and irresistible flavor that’s perfect for any occasion.
04. Korean Ginger Crisp Cookies
Korean Ginger Crisp Cookies
Cooks in 70 minutesDifficulty: EasyDive into the delightful world of Korean baking with these irresistible Ginger Crispy Cookies! Bursting with the warmth of ginger, aromatic cinnamon, and the rich crunch of pine nuts, this traditional Maejakgwa recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings. Celebrity chefs would applaud the simplicity and depth of flavors, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a blend of health and taste. Quick to prepare and wonderfully crunchy, these cookies promise to become a favorite in your household. Experience the authentic taste of Korea with every bite—let the joyful crunch bring your family closer together!
Korean Ginger Crispy Cookies (Maejakgwa) blend the warmth of ginger, cinnamon, and crunchy pine nuts in a simple, flavorful treat perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings.
05. Korean Vegetable Noodle Bowl
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Korean Vegetable Noodle Bowl
Cooks in 35 minutesDifficulty: MediumDive into the vibrant flavors of Korea with this Authentic Korean Vegetable Noodle Bowl! Bursting with colorful vegetables, tender beef, and chewy sweet potato noodles, this dish is a perfect harmony of taste and texture. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, this recipe offers simplicity without sacrificing depth, making it an irresistible addition to your culinary repertoire. Elevate your lunch or dinner with this delightful, healthy, and satisfying meal that promises to impress your taste buds and leave you craving more!
Authentic Korean Vegetable Noodle Bowl combines colorful vegetables, tender beef, and chewy sweet potato noodles for a healthy, satisfying meal that’s both simple and full of flavor.
06. Sweet Beet Rice Cakes
Sweet Beet Rice Cakes
Cooks in 75 minutesDifficulty: EasyExperience the vibrant flavors of Korea with these Sweet Beet Rice Cakes! Perfectly chewy and subtly sweet, these homemade Songpyeon are a delightful treat for any occasion. Packed with nutty sesame filling and naturally colored with fresh beets, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re celebrating Chuseok or just craving a unique dessert, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive into the authentic taste and make your kitchen the heart of Korean tradition today!
Sweet Beet Rice Cakes (Songpyeon) are chewy, subtly sweet rice cakes filled with nutty sesame and naturally colored with fresh beets, offering an authentic Korean treat for any occasion.
07. Mung Bean Pancakes
Mung Bean Pancakes
Cooks in 45 minutesDifficulty: EasyDiscover the irresistible charm of Mung Bean Pancakes, a beloved Korean appetizer that’s both nutritious and flavorful. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside, these pancakes are a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises simplicity and satisfaction. Elevate your cooking repertoire with this easy-to-follow recipe inspired by top culinary experts!
Mung Bean Pancakes are a crispy, tender Korean appetizer that’s both nutritious and flavorful, offering a simple yet satisfying recipe for cooks of all levels.
08. Classic Korean Rice Cake Soup
Classic Korean Rice Cake Soup
Cooks in 60 minutesDifficulty: EasyKick off the Lunar New Year with our easy and comforting Classic Korean Rice Cake Soup! This heartwarming Tteokguk combines tender beef, chewy rice cakes, and a savory broth that symbolizes new beginnings and prosperity. Perfect for both special occasions and everyday meals, this versatile soup is simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re celebrating Seollal or simply craving a flavorful bowl of goodness, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and bring warmth to your table.
Classic Korean Rice Cake Soup (Tteokguk) is a comforting, savory dish with tender beef, chewy rice cakes, and a flavorful broth, perfect for Lunar New Year or any occasion.
09. Korean Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup
Korean Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup
Cooks in 40 minutesDifficulty: EasyExperience the comforting warmth of Authentic Korean Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup! Perfect for chilly evenings, this hearty main course blends tender beef, chewy rice cakes, and savory dumplings in a flavorful broth. Easy to prepare and customizable to suit your taste, it’s a delightful meal that brings traditional Korean flavors right to your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Dive into a bowl of rich, satisfying goodness that’s both healthy and affordable. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Korea!
Korean Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup (Tteok Mandu Guk) is a delicious, hearty dish combining chewy rice cakes and savory dumplings in a rich, flavorful broth, perfect for celebrations or cozy meals.
10. Easy Stir-Fried Fernbrake (Gosari-namul)
Stir-Fried Fernbrake (Gosari-namul)
Cooks in 220 minutesDifficulty: MediumDiscover the rich flavors of Korean temple cuisine with our Authentic Stir-Fried Fernbrake (Gosari-namul) recipe. This earthy and savory side dish is a staple in traditional bibimbap and a favorite at Korean meals. Expertly prepared without garlic or onions, it highlights the natural taste of fernbrake, enhanced with soy and sesame oils. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to Korean dishes, this easy-to-follow recipe promises a delicious and healthy addition to your table. Elevate your culinary repertoire with this timeless Korean classic!
Stir-Fried Fernbrake (Gosari-namul) is a traditional Korean side dish made with tender fernbrake, sautéed with garlic, sesame oil, and soy sauce, offering a flavorful and nutritious accompaniment to any meal.
11. Oyster Rice Soup
Oyster Rice Soup
Cooks in 30 minutesDifficulty: EasyExperience the ultimate comfort with this hearty Oyster Rice Soup! Packed with tender oysters and chewy rice cakes, it’s a flavorful delight that’s both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing your family with a nutritious meal, this recipe brings together the best of Korean cuisine with a touch of modern simplicity. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find joy in every spoonful. Dive into this deliciousness and elevate your soup game to new heights!
Oyster Rice Soup (굴밥, Gulbap) is a comforting Korean dish made with tender oysters, rice, and a savory broth, offering a delicate, flavorful meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
12. Sautéed Bellflower Roots
Sautéed Bellflower Roots
Cooks in 85 minutesDifficulty: EasyElevate your meal with this vibrant Sautéed Bellflower Roots recipe! Bursting with flavor and simplicity, this dish is a perfect side that complements any main course. Expertly balanced with savory soy sauce and aromatic sesame oil, it’s a favorite among home cooks seeking healthy and affordable options. Whether you’re prepping for a family dinner or impressing guests, this Doraji Namul brings a delightful touch of Korean cuisine to your table. Dive into the crisp textures and rich tastes that make this recipe a standout – your taste buds will thank you!
Sautéed Bellflower Roots (Doraji Namul) is a flavorful and simple Korean side dish, combining savory soy sauce and sesame oil for a healthy, vibrant addition to any meal
13. Healthy Korean Rice Cakes
Healthy Korean Rice Cakes
Cooks in 60 minutesDifficulty: MediumElevate your culinary repertoire with these Healthy Korean Rice Cakes, bursting with the goodness of black beans, pine nuts, and jujubes. Inspired by traditional Yeongyang-chaltteok, this recipe combines sweet and chewy textures with nutritious ingredients to create a delightful treat suitable for any time of day. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these rice cakes are as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this easy-to-follow recipe will have you enjoying authentic Korean flavors in no time!
Healthy Korean Rice Cakes, inspired by Yeongyang-chaltteok, combine black beans, pine nuts, and jujubes for a sweet, chewy, and nutritious treat perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
14. Korean Beef and Rice Cake Skewers
Korean Beef and Rice Cake Skewers
Cooks in 45 minutesDifficulty: EasyDive into the vibrant flavors of Korea with these mouthwatering Beef and Rice Cake Skewers! Perfectly marinated tender beef paired with chewy rice cakes and fresh vegetables, all grilled to perfection. This recipe brings a delightful balance of savory and sweet that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these skewers are sure to become a favorite. Join the ranks of top chefs by mastering this easy and irresistible dish today!
Korean Beef and Rice Cake Skewers are a delicious fusion of tender beef and chewy rice cakes, marinated in a savory sauce and grilled to perfection, offering a flavorful and satisfying bite.
15. Dumpling and Rice Cake Soup
Korean Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup
Cooks in 40 minutesDifficulty: EasyExperience the comforting warmth of Authentic Korean Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup! Perfect for chilly evenings, this hearty main course blends tender beef, chewy rice cakes, and savory dumplings in a flavorful broth. Easy to prepare and customizable to suit your taste, it’s a delightful meal that brings traditional Korean flavors right to your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Dive into a bowl of rich, satisfying goodness that’s both healthy and affordable. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Korea!
Authentic Korean Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup combines tender beef, chewy rice cakes, and savory dumplings in a flavorful broth, offering a comforting, customizable meal that’s easy to prepare and full of traditional Korean flavors.