Korean Winter Dishes You Can Easily Recreate in an Indian Kitchen

Food from every corner of the world has always found a second home in Indian kitchens, as long as it is flavourful and packs a punch. We are known not just for embracing global cuisines, but for lovingly ‘Indianising’ them. After all, we can never give up our spices, depth, and bold flavours. Do you really think red sauce pasta we enjoy here is available the same way in Italy? 

So, when India fell head over heels for all things Korean, through K-drama and K-pop culture, Korean food was bound to follow. 

If you have accepted your love for everything Korean and want to recreate some comforting, winter-friendly Korean dishes at home, grab your apron and start with these classics, which are made simpler, warmer, and perfectly suited to Indian kitchens. 

1. Tteobokki

Tteobokki is one of Korea’s most iconic street foods made with chewy rice cakes simmered in a fiery, umami-rich sauce. Traditionally made with gochujang (Korean chilli paste), it has just the right balance of heat, sweetness, and savouriness.

In an Indian kitchen, Tteobokki becomes even more approachable. While Korean rick cakes are ideal, many home cooks use rice noodles or think poha rolls as substitutes. The sauce can be adjusted with Kashmiri red chilli powder for colour, a touch of jaggery instead of sugar, garlic, soy sauce, and a splash of sesame oil.

A heavy cast iron skillet works beautifully here, holding heat evenly and allowing the sauce to thicken without burning. Add vegetables like mushrooms, spring onions, or even paneer for an Indian touch, and you have got a bowl of comfort food that feels familiar yet exciting.

2.  Kimchi Jjigae

Kimchi Jjigae is a soul-warming stew that Koreans turn to when the weather turns cold. It’s robust, tangy, spicy, and deeply satisfying. Everything you crave in a winter meal.

While authentic kimchi adds a signature fermented punch, the stew adapts very well to Indian palates. Slightly sour cabbage kimchi pairs naturally with tofu, mushrooms, or even leftover vegetables. Indian chili paste or gochujang can be used depending on availability, and a dash of soy sauce or miso adds depth.

A pressure cooker makes this dish effortlessly achievable. It shortens cooking time while allowing flavours to meld beautifully, giving you a rich, comforting stew with minimal effort. Serve it with steaming hot rice, and it feels reminiscent of our own rasam or dal-based comfort food.

3. Bulgogi

Bulgogi, meaning ‘fire meat’, is a Korean classic known for it’s sweet-savoury marinade and quick cooking style. Traditionally grilled, it adapts easily to stovetop cooking. 

Thinly sliced meat (or mushrooms for a vegetarian version) is marinated with soy sauce, garlic, onion, a touch of honey or sugar, and sesame oil. Adding grated pear is traditional, but apple works just as well.

A cast iron pan or skillet shines here, delivering a beautiful sear while retaining juices. The result is caramelised, flavour-packed bulgogi that pairs well with rice, wraps, or even as stuffing for bao-style buns. Its fast, fuss-free, and ideal for cosy winter dinners.

Bringing Korean Comfort Home.

What makes these Korean winter dishes so appealing in India is how naturally they align with our love for bold flavours and warm, comforting meals. With simple ingredient swaps and the right cookware, these dishes can be made as part of everyday Indian cooking. 

Global flavours feel most comforting when they are cooked with ease and confidence. For simmering rich winter stews to searing bold, spice-laden dishes, reliable cookware makes all the difference. With Vinod Cookware, everyday Indian kitchens are well-equipped to explore international recipes that bring depth, warmth, and flavour to meals that feel both familiar and new.