Korean Culinary Journey takes Center Stage in Bhubaneswar
The surging popularity of Korean dramas (K-dramas) on OTT platforms has ignited a widespread fascination with Korean culture, and its cuisine is no exception. Increasingly, Bhubaneswar diners are eager to explore the diverse flavours of Korea. In response to this growing interest, ITC Fortune Park Sishmo, Bhubaneswar, is hosting a Korean Food Festival, showcasing a curated selection of authentic dishes. This culinary event, is been spearheaded by Chef Sayan Mazumder, who brings a wealth of experience to this festival. With his foundation in Western cuisine and knowledge of Bengali rural cuisine and diverse background lends a unique perspective to his Korean culinary creations.
A Culinary Showcase
The Korean Food Festival features a thoughtfully designed menu that highlights the breadth and depth of Korean cuisine. Here's a closer look at some of the standout dishes:
Eomuk Guk (Fish Cake Soup): This comforting soup features fish cakes and Korean radish in a flavorful anchovy broth. The addition of minced garlic, soy sauce, and scallions creates a savory and aromatic experience, with a hint of spice from optional dried red chili pepper. The fish cakes, briefly blanched to remove excess oil, offer a delightful contrast to the tender radish. The aroma is subtly savoury, with a hint of the sea, promising a warming and satisfying experience.
Kimpab Veg – Sushi (Kimchi Maki): This vegetarian take on sushi showcases the vibrant flavors of kimchi. Steamed short-grain rice, seasoned with sesame oil and salt, is spread over seaweed sheets and filled with spinach, julienned carrots, and Korean kimchi salad. The result is a colorful and texturally pleasing roll, with the spicy, tangy kimchi providing a counterpoint to the mild rice and vegetables. Each bite offers a delightful combination of soft rice, crunchy vegetables, and the signature tang of kimchi.
Korean Spicy Chicken Bao: This dish features tender pieces of chicken marinated in a fiery gochujang-based marinade, nestled in soft, steamed bao buns. The accompanying Korean sauce, a blend of gochujang, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, adds a sweet and savoury dimension. The bao buns are then garnished with Korean kimchi salad, pickled ginger, and wasabi sauce. . The bao buns themselves are soft and pillowy, providing the perfect pocket for the bold chicken filling. Topped with fresh red onion, cucumber, cilantro, and sesame seeds, these baos offer a complete sensory experience.
Sundubu Ramyun with Prawns (Korean Ramen Noodles): This hearty and flavorful dish combines the comfort of ramen noodles with the richness of Korean spices. Prawns and a medley of vegetables (cabbage, carrot, bell pepper, and onion) are stir-fried with garlic, gochugaru, and ramyun seasoning, and then tossed with the noodles and Korean stock. A garnish of scallions and a sprinkle of pepper complete this satisfying dish. The broth is rich and spicy, with a depth of flavour that comes from the combination of Korean spices and fresh ingredients.
Yaksik (Sweet Rice Dish): This traditional Korean sweet treat features Korean sticky rice, chestnuts, and raisins, all steamed to perfection. The rice is seasoned with a mixture of sweet soy sauce, dark brown sugar, honey, and sesame oil, and optionally flavored with cinnamon powder. The finished dish, often garnished with pine nuts and pumpkin seeds, offers a delightful combination of sweet, nutty, and subtly spiced flavors. Yaksik makes a perfect ending to a Korean feast.
For the Culinary Road
The Korean Food Festival at ITC Fortune Park Sishmo offers a unique opportunity to embark on a gastronomic journey through Korea. Whether you're a K-drama enthusiast or simply a lover of bold and exciting flavors, the Oriental Pavilion beckons.
