The world of mushrooms is vast. From enoki, oyster, king oyster, and button mushrooms to golden oak mushrooms, there are countless varieties of mushrooms used in our daily cuisine. With their unique flavors and aromas, not to mention rich nutrients, mushrooms truly deserve the title of "nature's gift." In this issue, let's explore the diverse world of mushrooms along with some delightful mushroom dishes that capture the fresh taste of nature.​

‘Beoseotzip’ @ Seongsu-dong, Seoul

When it comes to mushroom dishes, one of the most iconic ones is jeongol (hot pot). Gathering around a steaming pot of broth and enjoying the diverse flavors and aromas of mushrooms together brings not only joy to the palate but also fills the heart with contentment. Located in Seongsu-dong, Seoul, “Beoseotzip”, also known as ‘Mushroom House’, is the ultimate destination to experience the charm of mushroom jeongol.​​

All the mushrooms used at "Beoseotzip" are domestically sourced, obtained fresh daily from weekend farms near Seoul. Thanks to the short transport time upon harvest, not only are the nutrients vividly active, but you can also enjoy the fresh aroma and texture of the mushrooms. Make sure to savor the rich flavor of beoseot jeongol along with tender bulgogi at Beoseotzip.​

Address | 1st Floor, 9-10 Wangsimni-ro 5-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul​

Hours | Monday to Saturday, 11:00–21:00 (Closed on Sundays)​

'Cheongsanmyeongga (formerly Cheongsanbyeolmi)’ ​

@ Pocheon, Gyeonggi-do.

Boiling various ingredients in carefully brewed hot broth, shabu-shabu allows you to taste the authentic flavors of the ingredients most vividly. Especially, when mushrooms are lightly cooked, their texture and aroma can be best enjoyed, making them one of the best ingredients for shabu-shabu.​​

Located in Pocheon, Gyeonggi-do (Gyeonggi Province), 'Cheongsanmyeongga (formerly Cheongsanbyulmi)' is the place where you can enjoy fresh mushroom shabu-shabu. Seon-gyu Kang, who owns and runs 'Cheongsanmyeongga,' is a mushroom expert who has been cultivating mushrooms for 40 years. He operates both a mushroom farm and 'Cheongsanmyeongga,' offering various dishes made with mushrooms that he cultivates himself.​

The restaurant’s flagship menu, 'Beoseot Hanwoo Shabu-shabu,' is instantly captivating with over 10 splendid varieties of mushrooms on display. The shabu-shabu broth is seasoned only with mushrooms, vegetables, and natural sea salt, resulting in a rich and clean flavor that intensifies with each boil. The leftover broth can be used to make kalguksu (noodle soup) or deulkkaejuk (porridge with perilla seed) to add to the enjoyment. After the meal, you'll feel deeply nourished, as if you've had a hearty, comforting meal from the inside out.​

Address | 1215 Cheongsin-ro, Sinbuk-myeon, Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do​

Hours | Tuesday to Friday 10:30–19:50 / Saturday to Sunday 10:30–19:00 (Closed on Mondays)​

"Beoseot Kalguksu" @ Seongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do

As mushrooms are rich in dietary fiber and protein, they are a less burdensome ingredient to consume alongside carbohydrates such as noodles. The harmonious combination of soft kalguksu (noodle soup) noodles and chewy mushrooms is always a welcome delight. If you want to taste a kalguksu with mushrooms dish that is well-balanced in both flavor and nutrition, 'Beoseot Kalguksu' in Seongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do, is the perfect choice.​​

At 'Beoseot Kalguksu,' they use freshly grown mushrooms directly from the farm. Their signature dishes include ‘Heukmokibeoseot (black wood ear mushrooms) Kalguksu’ and ‘Beoseottangsu (deep-fried mushrooms with sweet and sour sauce).' In their kalguksu, various types of mushrooms, including wood ear, are generously added along with vegetables, allowing one to enjoy a deep and rich flavor.​

The secret weapon here, the “Beoseottangsu,” fries mushrooms instead of meat, boasting an irresistible savory taste that combines the tangy-sweet sauce with the chewy texture of mushrooms. The two types of beoseottangsu available are pyogobeoseot (golden oak mushrooms) tangsu and norugungdengibeoseot (lion’s mane mushroom) tangsu. You can choose according to your preference or opt for a half-and-half menu. Experience a refreshing spring meal with these unique mushroom dishes.​

Address | 3542 Seongju-ro, Seonnam-myeon, Seongju-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do​

Hours | Tuesday to Sunday 11:00-16:00 (Closed on Mondays /​

 Early closure when ingredients are sold out)​

Photos Naver Place, Naver Blog (권춘심, 프시케, 알라류)​