Banchan
Banchan refers to a variety of small side dishes served along with cooked rice in Korean cuisine. These dishes can include pickled vegetables, seasoned greens, and small portions of protein.
What it means in a kitchen
In a working kitchen, banchan is essential for providing balance and variety to a meal. The preparation of these side dishes can influence the overall timing and workflow, as they often require different cooking methods and ingredients. Mastery of banchan can enhance the dining experience and showcase the chef's skill.
Common misunderstanding
Many people mistakenly believe that banchan is simply a single dish or that it is always made with the same ingredients. In reality, banchan encompasses a wide range of dishes that can vary greatly by region and season, and they are not limited to any specific set of ingredients.
Example
A common banchan is kimchi, which is fermented napa cabbage seasoned with chili pepper, garlic, and ginger. When preparing a meal, one might serve a small bowl of kimchi alongside grilled meats to provide a contrasting flavor and texture.