Gujeolpan || Platter of Nine Delicacies, 九折坂, 九折坂, クジョルパン, 구절판

Gujeolpan is a traditional Korean dish that showcases a variety of flavors and colors. It’s a visually stunning and intricate dish that often graces royal court banquets.

The Nine Delicacies

Typically, a gujeolpan consists of nine different dishes, each with a distinct flavor and texture. These dishes are arranged on a special plate with nine compartments. Here are some common ingredients:

밀전병 (Miljeonbyeong): Thin wheat flour pancakes
육회 (Yukhoe): Raw beef seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings
김치 (Kimchi): Spicy fermented cabbage
도라지무침 (Dorajimuchim): Marinated bellflower roots
오이선 (Oisun): Cucumber slices seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes
연근채 (Yeongeunchae): Sliced lotus root, seasoned and stir-fried
우엉채 (Uongeunchae): Sliced burdock root, seasoned and stir-fried
표고버섯 (Pieogobeoseot): Shiitake mushrooms, seasoned and stir-fried

How to Enjoy Gujeolpan

Wrap it Up: Take a miljeonbyeong (wheat flour pancake) and place a small amount of each dish on it.
Roll it Up: Carefully roll the pancake to enclose the fillings.
Dip and Enjoy: Dip the rolled pancake in a dipping sauce, such as soy sauce with a bit of vinegar and garlic, and enjoy.

The Art of Presentation

The presentation of gujeolpan is just as important as its taste. The dishes are carefully arranged on the plate to create a visually appealing masterpiece. The colors, textures, and flavors of the different ingredients complement each other perfectly.

While preparing a full gujeolpan at home can be time-consuming, you can create a simplified version with a few key ingredients. The most important aspect is to enjoy the process of assembling the dish and savoring the flavors of each bite.

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