GUIDE 04

How to Eat Gamjatang

Get the meat off the bone—and try the mustard sauce.

WHAT IS IT?

Despite the name, gamjatang is primarily known for pork bones, deep broth, and greens—not simply potato soup.

HOW TO EAT IT

Use chopsticks, tongs, a spoon, or your hands to pull the tender meat from the bone. Don’t worry—using your hands is perfectly fine.

Enjoy the meat with the rich broth, potatoes, and vegetables.

If a dipping sauce is served, try the meat with it for a different flavor.

When you're almost finished, ask if they can make fried rice with the remaining broth.

TABLE MOMENT
Take it one relaxed bite at a time.

LOCAL TIP

The mustard sauce adds a sharp, refreshing contrast to the rich pork and broth.

TABLE TIP

Refill Your Side Dishes

Need more banchan? Just ask the staff. Most Korean restaurants are happy to refill common side dishes at no extra charge, and some have a self-service banchan bar. A few dishes made with more expensive ingredients may be limited or not refillable. Don’t be shy—asking for more banchan is completely normal in Korea.

Don’t worry if…

Bones can look intimidating at first. There is no rush—take the meat off bit by bit.