18 Delicious Banchan Recipes Every Food Lover Should Try

Kickstart your culinary adventure with a journey through the vibrant world of banchan, the delightful Korean side dishes that turn any meal into a feast. Perfect for home cooks looking to spice up their dinner routine, these 18 recipes promise a mix of flavors that are as easy to make as they are irresistible. Ready to explore? Let’s dive into these must-try dishes that will brighten your table and tantalize your taste buds.

Spicy Cucumber Salad

Outshine the summer heat with this crunchy, fiery Spicy Cucumber Salad. It’s quick, no-cook, and packs a punch—perfect for those scorching days when you crave something light yet bold.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber slices, sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Toss gently to coat evenly.
2. Add red pepper flakes and minced garlic to the bowl. Mix well to ensure the flavors are distributed throughout the salad.
3. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for a nutty crunch. Tip: Toast the sesame seeds lightly for an enhanced flavor.
4. Let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the cucumbers to slightly soften and absorb the dressing. Tip: For best results, chill in the refrigerator during this time.
5. Give the salad a final toss right before serving to redistribute the dressing. Tip: Serve in a chilled bowl to keep it refreshing.

Bold flavors and crisp textures make this salad a standout. The cucumbers stay crunchy, while the dressing delivers a spicy, tangy kick. Try topping with extra red pepper flakes for those who dare more heat.

Korean Spinach Side Dish

Bold flavors meet simple prep in this Korean Spinach Side Dish—your next fridge staple. Blanch, season, and serve; it’s that easy.

Ingredients

• 10 oz fresh spinach
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• 1/2 tsp sugar

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Add 10 oz fresh spinach to the boiling water and blanch for 30 seconds exactly.
3. Immediately transfer the spinach to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
4. Squeeze the spinach gently to remove excess water, then place it in a mixing bowl.
5. Add 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tsp minced garlic, 1/2 tsp sugar, and 1 tsp sesame seeds to the spinach.
6. Mix all ingredients thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until the spinach is evenly coated.
7. Let the dish sit for 5 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld.

Silky spinach with a nutty crunch from sesame seeds makes this dish a texture dream. Serve it chilled or at room temperature alongside grilled meats for a refreshing contrast.

Braised Potatoes with Soy Sauce

Craving a side that’s bold, braised, and packed with umami? These soy sauce-glazed potatoes are your next obsession. Crisp edges, tender centers, and a glossy finish make them irresistible.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add halved baby potatoes, cut side down. Cook undisturbed for 5 minutes to develop a golden crust.
3. Flip potatoes and cook for another 5 minutes until all sides are lightly browned.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Cover skillet and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are fork-tender.
7. Uncover and increase heat to high. Cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens and coats the potatoes.
8. Remove from heat and let stand for 2 minutes before serving.

Zesty and savory, these potatoes boast a sticky glaze with a hint of sweetness. Serve them over steamed rice or alongside grilled meats for a meal that’s anything but basic.

Stir-Fried Zucchini with Garlic

Dig into this quick, flavor-packed stir-fry that turns humble zucchini into a star. With just a few ingredients, you’re minutes away from a side that steals the show.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp soy sauce

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add minced garlic to the skillet. Stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
3. Toss in zucchini slices. Spread them out in a single layer for even cooking.
4. Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the zucchini. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
5. Drizzle soy sauce over the zucchini. Continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes until the zucchini is tender-crisp.
6. Remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking.

Zucchini transforms into tender bites with a slight crunch, soaked in garlicky, savory goodness. Serve it over steamed rice or toss with pasta for an easy upgrade.

Seasoned Soybean Sprouts

Zesty and vibrant, these Seasoned Soybean Sprouts are your next go-to side dish. **Toss** them together in minutes for a crunchy, flavorful bite that’s packed with umami.

Ingredients

• 1 lb soybean sprouts
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green onion, chopped
• 1 tsp sesame seeds

Instructions

1. **Rinse** the soybean sprouts under cold water and drain well.
2. **Boil** 4 cups of water in a pot, then add the sprouts. **Blanch** for 2 minutes exactly to keep them crisp.
3. **Drain** the sprouts and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. **Shake** off excess water.
4. In a large bowl, **combine** soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and minced garlic. **Mix** well.
5. **Add** the blanched sprouts to the bowl. **Toss** gently to coat evenly with the seasoning.
6. **Sprinkle** chopped green onion and sesame seeds on top. **Toss** once more for even distribution.

Yield a dish with a perfect crunch and a savory-sweet glaze. **Pair** with grilled meats or enjoy as a refreshing standalone snack.

Kimchi Pancakes

Alright, let’s dive straight into these crispy, tangy Kimchi Pancakes that’ll blow your taste buds away. A must-try for anyone craving a quick, flavorful bite with a kick!

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup chopped kimchi
• 2 tbsp kimchi juice
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour and 1 cup water until smooth.
2. Add 1 cup chopped kimchi, 2 tbsp kimchi juice, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, and 1/2 tsp salt to the batter. Mix well.
3. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
4. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter into the skillet, spreading it evenly into a thin circle.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the edges are crispy and the bottom is golden brown.
6. Flip the pancake and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the other side is golden brown.
7. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil as needed.

Just like that, you’ve got yourself a stack of golden, crispy Kimchi Pancakes with a perfect balance of tangy and spicy flavors. Serve them hot with a dipping sauce or as a side to your favorite Korean dishes for an extra punch!

Sweet and Sour Radish Salad

Nothing beats the crunch of fresh radishes in a salad that’s both sweet and tangy. This dish is a quick fix for your craving something light yet flavorful.

Ingredients

• 2 cups radishes, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups radishes, thinly sliced, and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup rice vinegar, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until well blended.
3. Pour the dressing over the radishes and toss gently to coat evenly.
4. Let the salad sit for 10 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld.
5. While waiting, toast 2 tbsp sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown.
6. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the salad before serving.

Serve this salad chilled for an extra refreshing bite. The contrast between the sweet dressing and the peppery radishes is unforgettable. Try it as a side to grilled meats or atop a slice of crusty bread for a quick snack.

Marinated Tofu with Sesame Seeds

Overwhelm your taste buds with this Marinated Tofu with Sesame Seeds—crispy edges, tender inside, and packed with umami. Perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner, it’s a game-changer.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp ginger powder
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Press the tofu for 30 minutes to remove excess water. Slice into 1-inch cubes.
2. Whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and ginger powder in a bowl.
3. Add tofu cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Let sit for 15 minutes.
4. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat. Add marinated tofu, reserving the marinade.
5. Cook tofu for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from pan.
6. Pour reserved marinade into the pan. Simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Return tofu to the pan, tossing to coat in the glaze. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
8. Serve immediately over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.

Now, enjoy the crispy, savory tofu with a hint of sweetness and nutty sesame. Try it in a grain bowl or as a protein-packed salad topper for extra crunch.

Glazed Carrots with Honey

Yield to the sweet, buttery allure of glazed carrots that’ll have your taste buds dancing. Perfectly caramelized with a hint of honey, this side dish steals the spotlight with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat until frothy, about 1 minute.
2. Add sliced carrots to the skillet, stirring to coat evenly with butter.
3. Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the carrots, stirring to distribute the seasonings.
4. Pour water into the skillet, then cover with a lid to steam the carrots for 5 minutes.
5. Remove the lid and drizzle honey over the carrots, stirring to combine.
6. Increase heat to medium-high and cook, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender and the glaze thickens, about 5 more minutes.
7. Tip: For an even glaze, toss the carrots gently in the skillet during the last minute of cooking.
8. Tip: If the glaze thickens too quickly, add a tablespoon of water to loosen it.
9. Tip: For a deeper flavor, let the carrots sit in the glaze off the heat for 2 minutes before serving.

Delight in the glossy, tender carrots that boast a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Serve them atop a creamy polenta or alongside a juicy roast for a meal that’s anything but ordinary.

Garlicky Green Beans

Get ready to elevate your veggie game with these crisp, garlicky green beans that pack a punch of flavor in every bite. Perfect for a quick side or a healthy snack, they’re about to become your new obsession.

Ingredients

• 1 lb green beans, trimmed
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add green beans to the skillet, spreading them out in a single layer for even cooking.
3. Sauté green beans for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to blister and turn bright green.
4. Add minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to the skillet, stirring to coat the green beans evenly.
5. Continue cooking for another 3 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and the green beans are tender-crisp.
6. Remove skillet from heat and drizzle with lemon juice, tossing to combine.

Out of the skillet, these green beans are irresistibly crisp with a bold garlic kick and a hint of lemon. Serve them alongside grilled chicken or toss with pasta for an easy, flavorful upgrade.

Pickled Radishes

Elevate your snack game with these crunchy, tangy pickled radishes—perfect for topping tacos or jazzing up a boring salad.

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 bunch radishes, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup water, 1 cup white vinegar, 1 tbsp sugar, and 1 tbsp salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring until sugar and salt dissolve.
2. Place 1 bunch thinly sliced radishes and 2 smashed garlic cloves in a clean pint-sized jar.
3. Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the radishes, ensuring they are completely submerged. Let cool to room temperature.
4. Once cooled, seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving, though 24 hours will deepen the flavors.
5. Tip: Use a mandoline for uniformly thin radish slices for even pickling.
6. Tip: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
7. Tip: Always use a clean jar to prevent bacterial growth.

Now, enjoy these vibrant pickled radishes—their crisp texture and bold flavor make them a standout garnish or a healthy snack straight from the jar.

Stir-Fried Eggplant with Chili Paste

Viral on every foodie’s feed, this stir-fried eggplant with chili paste packs a punch with minimal effort. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into a bold, savory dish that’s begging to be devoured.

Ingredients

• 2 cups eggplant, cubed
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp chili paste
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add 2 cups cubed eggplant to the pan. Stir-fry for 5 minutes until the edges start to brown.
3. Push eggplant to one side of the pan. Add 1 tbsp chili paste and 2 cloves minced garlic to the empty space. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Mix the eggplant with the chili paste and garlic. Add 1 tsp sugar, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and 1/4 cup water. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant is tender and the sauce thickens.
6. Remove from heat. Let stand for 2 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

This dish boasts a silky texture with a fiery kick, perfect over steamed rice or as a bold side. Try topping with sesame seeds for an extra crunch.

Korean Style Steamed Eggs

Elevate your breakfast game with this silky, savory Korean Style Steamed Eggs. It’s fluffy, flavorful, and ready in minutes—perfect for busy mornings or a cozy brunch.

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tsp sesame oil

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk 4 large eggs until fully beaten.
2. Add 1 cup water and 1/2 tsp salt to the eggs, whisking until well combined.
3. Strain the egg mixture through a fine sieve into a heatproof bowl to ensure smoothness.
4. Place the bowl in a steamer, cover, and steam over medium heat for 10 minutes.
5. After 10 minutes, check the eggs; they should be set but slightly jiggly in the center.
6. Remove from heat, drizzle with 1 tsp sesame oil, and sprinkle 1 tbsp green onions on top.
7. Let it sit covered for 2 minutes before serving to allow residual heat to finish cooking.

Airy and light, this dish boasts a delicate texture with a rich, umami flavor. Serve it with a side of kimchi or over steamed rice for an extra kick.

Sesame Broccoli Salad

Never underestimate the power of a simple veggie dish to steal the show. This sesame broccoli salad **crunches**, **pops**, and **dazzles** with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Toss 4 cups broccoli florets with 2 tbsp sesame oil on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 15 minutes, flipping halfway, until edges are crispy.
4. Whisk together 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes in a small bowl.
5. Drizzle the sauce over the roasted broccoli and toss to coat evenly.
6. Sprinkle 1 tbsp sesame seeds on top for a nutty finish.

Zesty and vibrant, this salad brings a **textural symphony** to your table. Serve it chilled for a refreshing twist or warm as a cozy side.

Spicy Stir-Fried Squid

Viral on every foodie’s feed, this Spicy Stir-Fried Squid packs heat and flavor in every bite. Get ready to fire up your wok—this dish comes together faster than you can say ‘delicious’.

Ingredients

• 1 lb squid, cleaned and sliced into rings
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a wok over high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Toss in squid rings, stir-fry for 2 minutes until they start to curl.
4. Mix in soy sauce, gochujang, and sugar, ensuring the squid is evenly coated.
5. Continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Add green onions and sesame oil, stir-fry for 1 minute more.
7. Remove from heat, sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Rustle up some steamed rice or wrap these tender, spicy squid rings in lettuce leaves for a crunchy contrast. The gochujang brings a deep, fiery kick that’s balanced by the sweetness of the sugar and the nuttiness of sesame.

Bean Sprout and Green Onion Salad

Nail your next meal prep with this crunchy, refreshing Bean Sprout and Green Onion Salad. It’s the perfect side to jazz up any dish or a light meal on its own.

Ingredients

• 2 cups bean sprouts
• 1/2 cup green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the bean sprouts to the boiling water and blanch for 1 minute exactly to keep them crisp.
3. Drain the bean sprouts and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
4. In a large bowl, combine the blanched bean sprouts and sliced green onions.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and red pepper flakes until the sugar dissolves.
6. Pour the dressing over the bean sprouts and green onions, tossing gently to coat evenly.
7. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the salad and toss once more for a nutty finish.

Enjoy the crisp texture and the bold, savory-sweet flavors of this salad. For an extra kick, serve it chilled with a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes on top.

Pan-Fried Tofu with Soy Glaze

Vegans and meat-eaters alike, **get ready** to flip your taste buds with this crispy, savory delight. **Pan-Fried Tofu with Soy Glaze** is your next kitchen adventure—simple, fast, and packed with umami.

Ingredients

– 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
– 1 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp ginger powder

Instructions

1. **Press** the tofu for 30 minutes to remove excess water, then cut into 1/2-inch thick slices.
2. **Heat** vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. **Add** tofu slices in a single layer; cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even crisping.
4. **Whisk** together soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic powder, and ginger powder in a small bowl.
5. **Pour** the glaze over the tofu in the skillet; simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu. Tip: Keep the heat medium to prevent burning.
6. **Flip** the tofu once to coat both sides evenly with the glaze. Tip: Use a silicone spatula for easy flipping and to keep the tofu intact.
7. **Remove** from heat and let sit for 1 minute before serving.

Kickstart your meal with this tofu’s crispy exterior and juicy center, glazed to perfection. Serve over steamed rice or chop into salads for an instant upgrade.

Cold Buckwheat Noodles with Vegetables

Kick off your summer with this refreshing, crunchy, and utterly satisfying bowl of Cold Buckwheat Noodles with Vegetables. Perfect for those scorching days when you crave something light yet fulfilling.

Ingredients

• 8 oz buckwheat noodles
• 2 cups cucumber, julienned
• 1 cup carrot, julienned
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• 1/2 tsp ginger, grated
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add the buckwheat noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes.
2. Drain the noodles and rinse under cold water until completely cool. Tip: Rinsing stops the cooking process and removes excess starch for better texture.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, and garlic until well combined.
4. Add the cooled noodles, cucumber, carrot, and red bell pepper to the bowl. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the dressing. Tip: Use tongs for easy mixing and to keep the vegetables crisp.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions on top before serving. Tip: For an extra crunch, toast the sesame seeds lightly before adding.

Yummy doesn’t begin to describe the harmony of textures and flavors in this dish—chewy noodles, crisp veggies, and a tangy-sweet dressing that’s downright addictive. Serve it chilled straight from the fridge for maximum refreshment, or pack it for a picnic to impress.

Conclusion

Banchan brings a world of flavor to your table, offering endless variety to spice up any meal. We hope our roundup of 18 delicious recipes inspires you to explore these tasty sides. Don’t forget to leave a comment with your favorites and share the love by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy cooking!

Bella Bacinos