Delicious Korean Mushroom Side Dish (Panchan) Recipe

Korean cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and an abundance of delicious side dishes, known as banchan. Among these culinary treasures are the often-underestimated mushroom panchan, which offer a delightful umami depth and satisfying texture. This recipe focuses on a simple yet flavorful preparation, showcasing the earthy richness of mushrooms while highlighting their versatility as a versatile side dish. Whether you're a seasoned Korean food enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this recipe provides a perfect introduction to the world of mushroom panchan.

This particular recipe uses readily available ingredients and straightforward techniques, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. The result is a mouthwatering side dish that perfectly complements a variety of Korean main courses, from bibimbap to grilled meats. Ready to embark on this culinary journey and create your own delectable Korean mushroom panchan? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions.

Tools Needed

  • Frying pan
  • Kitchen shears
  • Paper towel

Ingredients

  • Shiitake mushrooms (Pugo pozad): 120 grams
  • White onion: 40 grams
  • Butter: 1 tablespoon
  • Minced garlic: 1 teaspoon
  • Brown sugar: 1 teaspoon
  • Chinganjang (or soy sauce): 1 tablespoon
  • Water: 1/4 cup
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Chili flakes
  • Scallions
  • Sesame seeds
  • Sesame oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Mushrooms and Sauce

  • Clean the shiitake mushrooms by wiping them with a wet paper towel. Remove the stems and discard or save for stock.
  • Slice the mushrooms into pieces that are neither too thin nor too thick.
  • Finely slice the white onion.
  • In a bowl, mix together minced garlic, brown sugar, chinganjang (or soy sauce), and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Clean the shiitake mushrooms by wiping them with a wet paper towel. Remove the stems and discard or save for stock.Slice the mushrooms into pieces that are neither too thin nor too thick.Finely slice the white onion.In a bowl, mix together minced garlic, brown sugar, chinganjang (or soy sauce), and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Prepare the Mushrooms and Sauce

Step 2. Sauté the Mushrooms and Onions

  • Preheat a frying pan over high heat for about 2 minutes. Add oil.
  • Add the sliced mushrooms to the hot pan, spreading them out to ensure even browning. Sizzle and brown for about a minute, then add salt and black pepper.
  • Add the sliced onions and stir-fry for about 30 seconds.
Preheat a frying pan over high heat for about 2 minutes. Add oil.Add the sliced mushrooms to the hot pan, spreading them out to ensure even browning. Sizzle and brown for about a minute, then add salt and black pepper.Add the sliced onions and stir-fry for about 30 seconds.
Sauté the Mushrooms and Onions

Step 3. Add Flavor and Finish

  • Push the mushrooms and onions to one side of the pan. Pour the garlic-soy sauce mixture into the pan.
  • Add the butter and let it melt. Mix everything together once the butter is melted.
  • Turn off the heat and stir in chili flakes. Transfer the mushrooms to a plate immediately.
  • Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds (optional).
Push the mushrooms and onions to one side of the pan. Pour the garlic-soy sauce mixture into the pan.Add the butter and let it melt. Mix everything together once the butter is melted.Turn off the heat and stir in chili flakes. Transfer the mushrooms to a plate immediately.Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds (optional).
Add Flavor and Finish

Read more: Crispy Spicy Honey Garlic Korean Chicken Recipe

Tips

  • Don't wash mushrooms in running water; they absorb too much water. Use a damp paper towel instead.
  • Adjust the saltiness to your preference by adding more salt or a little hot water.
  • Serve warm over Korean rice for a delicious meal.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Absolutely! Shiitake, oyster, or cremini mushrooms all work well. Feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties.

2. How long can I store leftover mushroom panchan?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will deepen slightly over time.

3. What can I serve this mushroom panchan with?

It pairs beautifully with almost any Korean dish, especially grilled meats, bibimbap, and rice bowls. It also makes a great addition to a larger banchan spread.


This simple yet flavorful Korean mushroom panchan recipe is a delightful addition to any meal. Its earthy umami notes and satisfying texture make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for both everyday dining and special occasions. Enjoy the satisfying results of your culinary adventure!