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Discover Cheongju’s Culinary Gems: A Taste of Authentic Korean Jjageuri and Pabulgogi

Have you ever wondered what culinary secrets South Korea’s cities hold beyond the bustling capital of Seoul? Today, we’re venturing into Cheongju, a city brimming with local pride and, as we discovered, some truly exceptional food. Forget what you think you know about Korean BBQ – Cheongju is redefining the game with dishes you won’t find just anywhere.

Yongyong Saenggogi: Dive into the Spicy Delight of Jjageuri

Our first stop was Yongyong Saenggogi (용용 생고기), a local favorite renowned for its Jjageuri (짜그리). If you’re unfamiliar, Jjageuri is a spicy and flavorful pork stew, and in Cheongju, it’s elevated to an art form. Yongyong Saenggogi prides itself on using freshly butchered pork, ensuring top-notch quality and taste.

Imagine a bubbling pot of rich, red stew filled with tender pork, soft tofu, and hearty zucchini. The broth is a perfect balance of spicy and savory, a comforting warmth that spreads through you with each spoonful. What sets Yongyong Saenggogi apart is not just the quality of the ingredients but also the unique way they serve it – with a side of crispy Nurungji (누룽지), scorched rice sprinkled with sugar. Dip the Nurungji into the Jjageuri broth, and you’ll experience a delightful sweet and spicy combination that’s simply addictive.

What to expect at Yongyong Saenggogi:

• Must-try dish: Jjageuri
• Specialty: Freshly butchered pork, authentic Jjageuri flavor
• Unique side: Sweet and savory Nurungji
• Atmosphere: Local, bustling, and full of flavor

If you’re a fan of spicy Korean stews and seeking an authentic local experience, Yongyong Saenggogi is a must-visit in Cheongju. Be prepared for a flavorful journey that will leave you craving more.

Dongryong Bulgogi: Experience the Unique Mega Pabulgogi

Next, we ventured to Dongryong Bulgogi (동룡 불고기), recommended as a top spot by local university students. Here, the star of the show is Mega Pabulgogi (메가 파불고기). This dish is a Cheongju twist on Bulgogi, featuring thinly sliced pork marinated and cooked with an abundance of green onions (파 – pa in Korean).

Forget grilling at your table – at Dongryong Bulgogi, the magic happens in the kitchen. The pork and green onions are expertly stir-fried in a special sauce, creating a dish that’s both savory and slightly sweet, with a refreshing bite from the generous amount of green onions. The “Mega” in the name isn’t just for show – the portion sizes are generous, ensuring you leave completely satisfied.

The unique cooking method involves initially cooking the pork with a savory sauce, then adding a mountain of fresh green onions. As it cooks, the green onions soften and release their natural sweetness, perfectly complementing the savory pork. The result is a dish that’s both comforting and invigorating, showcasing the simple yet brilliant combination of pork and green onions.

What to expect at Dongryong Bulgogi:

• Must-try dish: Mega Pabulgogi
• Specialty: Unique Pabulgogi with a mountain of green onions
• Flavor profile: Savory, slightly sweet, and refreshing
• Atmosphere: Popular among locals, especially university students, lively and welcoming

Dongryong Bulgogi offers a truly unique Korean dining experience. If you’re looking to try something beyond the typical Korean BBQ and crave a dish packed with flavor and freshness, Mega Pabulgogi at Dongryong Bulgogi is an absolute must-try in Cheongju.

Cheongju: A Foodie Destination You Shouldn’t Miss

Cheongju is proving itself to be a hidden gem for food lovers. From the spicy and comforting Jjageuri at Yongyong Saenggogi to the unique and flavorful Mega Pabulgogi at Dongryong Bulgogi, Cheongju offers a taste of authentic Korean cuisine that’s both delicious and memorable. So, next time you’re planning a trip to South Korea, consider adding Cheongju to your itinerary and prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable culinary adventure!