Food In Jogyesa Temple

Food History of Jogyesa Temple, Seoul, South Korea

Jogyesa Temple, located in the heart of Seoul, is an important site for Korean Buddhism, being the chief temple of the Jogye Order. While the temple itself is not typically associated with food, it is actively involved in traditional Korean Buddhist cuisine, which is largely vegetarian. Korean temple food is known for its simple, yet flavorful qualities, focusing on natural ingredients and eschewing meat, garlic, and onions, which are considered to disturb meditation practices. In recent years, temple food has gained global attention for its health benefits and unique culinary style.

Top 10 Food Dishes to Try Near Jogyesa Temple

1. Kimbap: A popular Korean snack made of seasoned rice and various vegetables rolled in seaweed. It's a convenient, on-the-go food that is vegetarian.
2. Bibimbap: A mixed rice dish usually served with an array of seasoned vegetables, a fried egg, and gochujang (chili pepper paste). Vegetarian options are available.
3. Japchae: Stir-fried sweet potato noodles mixed with vegetables, and sometimes eggs or tofu, make this dish a versatile vegetarian or non-veg option.
4. Pajeon: A savory pancake filled with green onions and other ingredients such as seafood or kimchi. This can be found in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
5. Sundubu-jjigae: Typically a spicy soft tofu stew with vegetables, sometimes including seafood or eggs. Vegetarian versions are available.
6. Temple Food: Traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine with an array of dishes made from fresh, seasonal ingredients without strong spices.
7. Hoeddeok: Sweet syrupy pancakes that are a popular street food. These are vegetarian and contain a delightful mixture of cinnamon, honey, and nuts.
8. Tteokbokki: Spicy stir-fried rice cakes, a beloved Korean street food which is mostly vegetarian, though sometimes fish cakes are added.
9. Mung Bean Pancakes (Bindaetteok): A vegetarian pancake option made from ground mung beans, vegetables, and kimchi, often served with a soy sauce-based dip.
10. Hotteok: Another variety of sweet pancake that is traditionally filled with a mixture of brown sugar, honey, chopped peanuts, and cinnamon. It is vegetarian.

Top Famous Restaurants near Jogyesa Temple

• Barugongyang
  Address: 57, Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
  Famous Food: Baru-style Meals (Traditional temple food, vegetarian)
• Sanchon
  Address: 30, Gwanhun-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
  Famous Food: Traditional Korean Temple Cuisine (Vegetarian)
• Osulloc Tea House
  Address: 12, Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
  Famous Food: Green Tea-based Desserts and Beverages (Vegetarian options available)
• Balwoo Gongyang
  Address: 56, Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
  Famous Food: Korean Temple Cuisine (Vegetarian)
• Gwanghwamun Jip
  Address: 12, Saemunan-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
  Famous Food: Kimchi Jjigae, Bulgogi (Note: Bulgogi is usually made using beef, but there may be pork or chicken versions)

Note: When looking for vegetarian options in Korea, it's important to communicate clearly as some dishes, while not having visible meat, may still contain broths or flavorings derived from fish or meat. However, the temples themselves and restaurants specializing in temple cuisine will typically adhere to strict vegetarian or vegan standards.