Quick Answer
Some Korean side dishes (banchan) are vegetarian, but many are not.
Vegetable dishes such as spinach namul, bean sprout namul, braised potatoes, and braised tofu are usually vegetarian.
However, many Korean dishes contain fish sauce, shrimp paste, or anchovy broth, so vegetarians should check ingredients when possible.
What Is Banchan?
One unique feature of Korean food culture is banchan, the small side dishes served with a meal.
Unlike many countries where side dishes are ordered separately, Korean restaurants usually serve several side dishes automatically and free of charge.
Even a simple meal such as ramen or bibimbap often comes with side dishes like kimchi, pickled radish, or seasoned vegetables.
A typical Korean meal includes several side dishes. Some are vegetarian, and some are not.
Why Many Korean Side Dishes Are Not Vegetarian
Many Korean side dishes look plant-based but actually contain small amounts of seafood ingredients.
The most common ones include:
- Fish sauce (액젓) – commonly used in kimchi and vegetable seasoning
- Shrimp paste (새우젓) – often added to kimchi and soups
- Anchovy broth (멸치 육수) – used as a base for soups and sometimes vegetable dishes
If you're curious about these ingredients, this guide may help:
Hidden animal ingredients in Korean food
Korean Side Dishes That Are Usually Vegetarian
Among Korean side dishes, namul-style vegetables are usually the safest choice.
| Dish | Description | Vegetarian Likelihood |
|---|---|---|
| Spinach Namul | Seasoned spinach with sesame oil | Usually vegetarian |
| Bean Sprout Namul | Lightly seasoned soybean sprouts | Usually vegetarian |
| Braised Potatoes | Soy sauce braised potatoes | Usually vegetarian |
| Cucumber Salad | Spicy cucumber salad | Sometimes contains fish sauce |
| Braised Tofu | Soy-braised tofu | Usually vegetarian |
Korean Side Dishes That Are Usually NOT Vegetarian
Some side dishes may look vegetarian but still contain seafood ingredients.
| Dish | Why It Is Not Vegetarian |
|---|---|
| Kimchi | Usually contains fish sauce |
| Myeolchi Bokkeum | Made with anchovies |
| Fish Cake Side Dishes | Made from fish paste |
| Some Radish Kimchi | Often contains shrimp paste |
Practical Tips for Vegetarian Travelers
Choose namul dishes
Spinach, bean sprouts, zucchini, and other vegetable namul are usually safe.
Ask about fish sauce
Fish sauce is one of the most common non-vegetarian ingredients in Korean side dishes.
Look for tofu dishes
Braised tofu is often vegetarian, though broth ingredients may vary.
Final Answer
Some Korean side dishes are vegetarian, especially namul-style vegetable dishes and tofu dishes.
However, Korean cooking frequently uses fish sauce, shrimp paste, or anchovy broth.
Learning a few common banchan names makes it much easier to eat vegetarian in Korea.
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