Hoe-deopbap

Hoe-deopbap, also known as raw fish bibimbap, is a cherished traditional Korean dish that harmoniously marries the fresh taste of raw fish with the comforting warmth of steamed rice. Picture a bowl of fluffy rice, crowned with slices or cubes of raw fish such as halibut, sea bass, rockfish, tuna, salmon, or whitefish. This is complemented by a vibrant array of vegetables including lettuce, cucumber, and sesame leaves, all delicately drizzled with fragrant sesame oil and a tangy-sweet sauce called chogochujang.

When you sit down to enjoy hoe-deopbap, you mix everything together right at the table, using a spoon to blend the flavors and textures, similar to the way you would with the more familiar bibimbap.

There are also special versions of hoe-deopbap named for their star ingredients. For example, 'gul hoedeopbap' features raw oysters, providing a briny burst of flavor, while 'gajami hoedeopbap' is made with raw sole, a delicacy particularly popular in the coastal city of Gangneung and its surrounding regions. These variations add even more excitement to an already delightful dish, ensuring there is a version of hoe-deopbap to suit every seafood lover's palate.