How to make Namul (Korean Vegetable Side Dishes) in 3 steps

 How to make Namul (Korean Vegetable Side Dishes) in 3 steps

Korean Yam (sweet potato) flowers bloomed in the backyard garden. When I heard that the lavender-colored sweet potato flowers are beautiful, I determined to grow and see them. I cut off some withered sweet potatoes, placed them in water to root, and once the leaves grew lush, I planted them outside about a month ago. 

Korean Yam flowers

After I posted a photo of the flowers in a gardening group chat, a farmer poet replied that cutting the flowers would allow nutrients to be directed to the roots, making the sweet potatoes grow larger. I cut the flowers, put them in a vase, and also harvested the lush leaves and stems to make Korean side dishes. It is said eating sweet potato greens as a side dish improves skin texture, alleviates constipation, and strengthens digestive function. Additionally, sweet potato leaves are rich in various nutrients, with protein levels comparable to pork and beef, and carotene levels three times higher than carrots.

 

Cutting leaves and stems into bite-sized pieces, I reminisce about the bibimbap I used to eat at the temple during my childhood in Korea. Rice with various namuls. That simple combination is still the most delicious, unforgettable meal I cherish. Namul, a quintessential component of Korean cuisine, offers a fascinating glimpse into the country's traditional way of life in harmony with nature. These seasoned vegetable side dishes, known for their simplicity, versatility, and health benefits, can turn any meal into a delightful exploration of flavors and textures. Namul is not only a culinary heritage but also an embodiment of Korea’s deep-rooted connection with nature and its seasonal produce.

If you visit the Korean Folk Village in Yongin, a suburb of Suwon, South Korea, you can see the different traditional residential environments and architectural styles from various regions of Korea. Let alone the large hanok (traditional Korean houses) of the yangban (aristocrats), even the very small thatched-roof houses, known as a choga, of the poor commoners had a small garden in the yard. They would plant vegetables in this garden to make side dishes, living a life that practiced the concept of "from garden to table."

What is Namul?

In Korean cuisine, Namul (나물) refers to a variety of seasoned vegetable dishes. Typically served as part of the traditional Korean meal known as banchan (반찬), these dishes can be prepared using a range of vegetables, including leafy greens, roots, and even seaweed. Each type of namul is seasoned differently, often with a combination of sesame oil, garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, and various spices, depending on the vegetable used.

Namul can be enjoyed warm or cold, and it's an integral part of dishes like bibimbap (비빔밥), where it provides a balance of textures and flavors. These dishes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them a perfect addition to any diet.

Since I started a vegetable garden while staying at home during the 2020 COVID lockdown, I’ve harvested various greens from my garden and made dishes with them. These included stonecrop, angelica leaves, aster leaves, mallow, pumpkin leaves, radish, beans, zucchini, eggplant, carrots, and more. Each time I prepared these dishes, after searching for recipes online. Below, I summarized my experiences into a chart.

The beauty of namul lies in its simplicity. Most namul recipes require minimal ingredients and cooking time, allowing the natural flavors of the vegetables to shine through. Also, namul dishes are an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while experiencing the diverse flavors of Korean cuisine. They are not only rich in vitamins and minerals but also low in calories, making them a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The use of natural, simple ingredients ensures that each dish retains its nutritional value and is easy to prepare.

In Korean culture, namul is also a symbol of balance and harmony, reflecting our approach to food as medicine. Eating a variety of namul, especially with seasonal ingredients, is believed to promote health and well-being. Hope you try and enjoy namul!