Discovering the Soul of Korean Cuisine
As an avid home cook who’s always eager to expand my culinary horizons, I recently had the opportunity to visit Seoul, South Korea and immerse myself in the vibrant, captivating world of Korean cuisine. During my travels, I stumbled upon a hidden gem – the Ongo Korean Culinary School – and let me tell you, it turned out to be one of the most extraordinary and enlightening experiences of my life.
Cooler Kitchen, a blog I follow closely, had raved about their cooking class at Ongo, and I just knew I had to check it out for myself. As soon as I stepped through the doors, I was transported to a realm where the aromas of sizzling bulgogi, the vibrant hues of kimchi, and the warmth of Korean hospitality enveloped me like a cozy embrace.
The class I chose to take was the “Beginner’s Korean Cooking” course, and let me tell you, I was in for a delightful surprise. I consider myself a fairly competent home cook, but Korean cuisine was entirely new territory for me. Little did I know, I was about to embark on a culinary adventure that would forever change the way I approach food.
Diving into the Depths of Korean Cuisine
The moment I arrived, I was greeted by the enthusiastic and knowledgeable Chef Yebin Lee, who would be leading our class. As she began to explain the intricacies of Korean cooking, I was immediately captivated by her passion and her deep understanding of the cultural significance behind each dish.
Cooler Kitchen’s review had mentioned that Yebin had spent time in California, which I believe gave her a unique perspective in bridging the gap between Western and Korean culinary traditions. She was able to draw parallels and make connections that helped me, as a Western-trained cook, grasp the nuances of the dishes we were about to prepare.
One of the first things Yebin emphasized was the importance of not just following the recipes, but truly connecting with the ingredients and embracing the process. She explained that Korean cooking is as much a meditative practice as it is a culinary one, and that the secret to truly delicious Korean food lies in the care and attention you pour into each step.
Mastering the Art of Kimchi
As we began our hands-on cooking session, Yebin guided us through the process of making traditional Korean kimchi. I have to admit, when she first explained the step-of-stuffing the chili paste into the cabbage leaves, I felt a bit out of my comfort zone. However, Yebin’s infectious enthusiasm and her insistence that we “feel happy” while massaging the kimchi quickly dispelled any hesitation I had.
As Cooler Kitchen described, the meditative experience of kneading the cabbage and ensuring every leaf was coated in the vibrant, aromatic chili paste was truly something special. I found myself becoming lost in the rhythmic motions, the earthy scents, and the sheer joy of creating something so inherently Korean.
Yebin’s words about the importance of infusing the kimchi with love and care resonated with me deeply. I realized that Korean cuisine is not just about following a recipe, but about connecting with the history, the culture, and the very soul of the dish itself. As I packed up my homemade kimchi to take home, I couldn’t wait to see how it would transform over the next few days as it fermented and developed its signature flavors.
Discovering the Intricacies of Korean Cuisine
Throughout the class, Yebin continued to impress me with her wealth of knowledge and her ability to make even the most complex dishes accessible. We tackled the preparation of a variety of traditional Korean staples, from the savory, caramelized beef bulgogi to the delicate, crispy kimchi pancakes.
As the TripAdvisor review mentioned, the class also included a comprehensive banchan spread, which showcased the incredible diversity and complexity of Korean side dishes. I was fascinated by the array of pickled vegetables, fragrant sesame leaves, and the fiery chili sauce that complemented the main dishes so perfectly.
One of the highlights of the class for me was the opportunity to not only cook these dishes but also to learn about their cultural significance. Yebin shared stories about the origins of the recipes, the symbolism behind certain ingredients, and the ways in which Korean cuisine has evolved over time. I found myself captivated by the rich tapestry of history and tradition woven into every bite.
Savoring the Flavors of Seoul
As our class came to a close, the chefs had prepared a stunning, restaurant-quality lunch spread featuring all the dishes we had prepared. Sitting around the table, sharing the food we had lovingly crafted, was a truly transcendent experience. The flavors danced on my tongue, each bite revealing new depths of complexity and balance.
As the TripAdvisor review highlighted, the class not only taught us the practical skills of Korean cooking but also allowed us to savor the fruits of our labor in a truly meaningful way. As I savored each dish, I couldn’t help but feel a deeper connection to the culture and the people of Seoul.
After the class, Yebin graciously provided us with the recipes we had learned, as well as the kimchi we had made, so that we could continue our culinary journey at home. I left the Ongo Korean Culinary School with a newfound appreciation for the complexities and nuances of Korean cuisine, and a deep desire to continue exploring and sharing this incredible culinary heritage.
Connecting with the Heart of Seoul
My experience at the Ongo Korean Culinary School was more than just a cooking class – it was a profound cultural immersion that left an indelible mark on my heart and my palate. From the moment I stepped through the doors, I was enveloped in the warmth and hospitality of the Korean people, and I left with a deep respect and admiration for the rich culinary traditions of this dynamic city.
As I reflect on my time in Seoul, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to have discovered the soul of Korean cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a complete novice, I highly recommend exploring the culinary wonders of Seoul through a hands-on cooking class like the one I experienced at Ongo. It’s a journey that will not only expand your culinary horizons but also connect you to the very heart and spirit of this remarkable city.
