Taste Korea: Korean Recipes With Local Ingredients

The secret to Korean food's tastiness is in the jangs, sauces that have been a staple of Korean cuisine for thousands of years. Jang is prepared by fermenting soybeans into soy sauce, soybean paste, and chili paste, delivering a rich palette of flavors and significant health benefits. Ae Jin Huys' book offers 70 accessible recipes to season meals with jangs, making them healthier and tastier.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 20 March 2023
Publisher: Lannoo Publishers

The secret to the deliciousness of Korean food lies in the versatile and ancient jangs and sauces that have been a staple of Korean cuisine for thousands of years. Jang, a fermented soybean product, is created through the process of fermenting soybeans into soy sauce (ganjang), soybean paste (doenjang), and chili paste (gochujang). This seasoning not only adds a rich and complex flavor profile to Korean dishes but also provides numerous health benefits.

One of the most well-known jangs is kimchi, a Korean fermented vegetable that has been enjoyed for centuries. In her book, "Jangs: The Secret to Seasoning Your Meals," author Ae Jin Huys showcases how to use various jangs to enhance the flavors of everyday meals. For instance, she suggests replacing butter on potatoes with jang, resulting in a delightful infusion of aromas. With 70 accessible recipes that utilize ingredients readily found at local stores, Huys demonstrates how jangs can make your daily fare healthier and tastier in no time.

The versatility of jangs is truly remarkable. They can be used in a wide range of dishes, from savory stews and soups to spicy stir-fries and marinades. The different types of jangs, such as gochujang, which is made from chili peppers, and doenjang, which is made from fermented soybeans, offer a diverse range of flavors and textures that can elevate any meal.

In addition to their culinary benefits, jangs also have a rich history and cultural significance in Korean cuisine. They are often used as a symbol of hospitality and are served as a side dish during family gatherings and special occasions. The preparation and enjoyment of jangs are also considered a form of meditation and self-care, as the slow and meticulous fermentation process requires patience and attention.

Overall, the use of jangs and sauces in Korean cuisine is a testament to the country's culinary traditions and its commitment to using natural and healthy ingredients. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner looking to explore new flavors, incorporating jangs into your cooking can take your dishes to the next level and offer a taste of Korea's rich culinary heritage.

Dimension: 280 x 200 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789401489348