Selected Cuisine and Beverages: Korean Style Quiz

Answer: Kimchi

Kimchi happens to be one of those Korean words that is relatively widely known. It is generally made from fermented cabbage and red chili pepper. The amount of chili pepper applied determines the degree of spicy flavor. While cabbage is the most popular variant, many other vegetables can be used with the same recipe to produce a similar taste.

Answer: unstrained rice wine

Makgeolli has often been touted as a healthier beverage than comparable alcoholic drinks. It contains beneficial bacteria, vitamins and fiber. It is usually served from a bowl in order to keep the ingredients from separating. Its milky consistency doesn't really resemble typical wines, but "rice wine" is the most popular translation of this popular beverage.

Answer: Bulgogi

"Gogi" is the Korean word for meat. "Bul" means fire in this context. Strips of quality beef are marinated and then grilled or barbecued. A typical marinade recipe is as follows: soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, garlic, ginger and ginseng. After marinating the beef for a while, it is then quickly grilled or barbecued for an exquisite result.

Answer: Soju

Soju is the alcoholic beverage of choice for many adults in Korea. It has a high alcohol content and resembles vodka in appearance. It is often consumed in social situations and there is a distinct protocol and etiquette associated with its consumption. "Ju" is the suffix for liquor. "Podo" is the Korean word for grapes. So, Podoju is the Korean word for wine.

Answer: Octopus

Nakji Bokkeum is a relatively popular dish served in many Korean restaurants. It may be an acquired taste, but if you are adventurous, you can give it a try. If you are truly intrepid, then you may try SanNakji. This is served without being cooked at all. If you prefer your food to be stationary, then this is not the dish for you.

Answer: Sundae

Sundae, which is pronounced "soon day," is a popular snack food. It can be found in grocery store delicatessens and street vendors. Naturally, it may include a diverse array of ingredients and prepared in a vast variety of ways.

Answer: seaweed

Kimbap is defined as, "rice rolled in dried laver with ingredients in the center." "Gim" or "Kim" is more commonly known as "seaweed." Practically any edible ingredients may be inserted in the center, depending upon your taste and preferences.

Answer: Bibimbap

The Korean dictionary definition of Bibimbap is as follows: "boiled rice with assorted mixtures; boiled rice mixed with minced meat and other various kind of cooked ingredients and spicy red pepper paste." Despite the rather unflattering definition, it is a delightful meal in itself and deserves a taste.

Answer: tea

The importance of this practically universal beverage can be delineated in linguistic terms. The similarity of the words for tea in many diverse languages are uncanny. Tea is often served in ceremonies and as a matter of general etiquette in social situations. Along with green tea, ginger tea and ginseng tea are very popular in Korea.

Answer: Patbingsu

Congratulations are in order if you chose "Patbingsu!" "Pat," pronounced "Paht" means red bean in Korean. "Bingsu" is shaved ice with sugar or fruit syrup. Put them together and you have a delicious icy treat that will help fend off the hot and humid Korean summer.

As with many other dishes, there are innumerable combinations and variations. Many fast-food vendors sell some variation of this icy treat.