Everyone knows that Korean food is delicious. But did you know some of their best dishes are found in the summer? Here are the 3 Korean foods that you have to try this sweltering summer!

1) Mul Naengmyeon (Korean Cold Noodle Soup)

Mul Naengmyeon is served in an icy cold broth which features tangy, savory, and sweet flavor notes, while the noodles provide a soft but chewy texture at the same time. It's known to be one of the most famous noodle dishes of Korea.

Usually, the noodles are served with thin beef slices, cucumbers, eggs, and a dash of sesame seeds. Sometimes, a squeeze of mustard can help spice the dish up as well! This dish is perfect to help you cool down in the hot weather.

2) Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup)

Samgyetang is a bowl of hot broth with a whole chicken stuffed with rice, ginseng, ginkgo nuts, and garlic. Unlike Naengmyeon, this dish is a hot dish. So why do people eat this dish in the summer?

In Korea, there is a saying called "yi yeol chi yeol" which roughly translates to "fight the heat with heat". During the summer, people sweat a lot to cool the body, and thus the body loses energy. In order to replenish energy, Koreans believe that a warm dish like Samgyetang can help restore internal warmth to the body!

3) Patbingsoo (Shaved ice with toppings)

Patbingsoo is considered one of the most popular desserts in Korea. Although the dessert is usually available all-year round, it is most popular (and practical) to be eaten in the summer! Patbingsoo is made up of shaved ice with added toppings, which include sweet red bean paste, mochi, fruit, jellies, ice cream, and more.

Originally, Patbingsoo used to be quite literally shaved ice cubes with only sweet red bean paste as a topping, but recently it has evolved to become a more versatile dessert. Now, you can see unique styles and flavors in Korean cafes, which feature varieties such as mango bingsoo, coffee bingsoo, matcha bingsoo, which opt a "shaved milk" base over shaved ice. Nevertheless, I personally find all varieties to be delicious and refreshing!

You can find these dishes at local Korean restaurants and cafes. Enjoy!