Summer in Korea is known for its stifling heat, occasionally interrupted by monsoon days, but there are solutions to beat the heat, starting with what's on your plate! Some dishes are typical of Korean summers and are already well known, such as bingsu and samgyetang. Today, I've focused solely on cold noodles because different types distinguish themselves from each other and are often unfamiliar to the general public.

1. Mulnaengmyeon (물냉면)

Mulnaengmyeon, literally "cold noodles in water," is probably the most famous dish associated with Korean summers. Originating from the northern regions of Korea where summers are hot, this dish consists of thin, chewy noodles made from sweet potato starch. The noodles are served in a cold broth made with beef or dongchimi (water kimchi radish) and are often garnished with cucumber slices, Korean pear slices, hard-boiled egg, and sometimes slices of cold beef or pheasant. The unique texture of the noodles can be challenging at first, so I recommend cutting them into smaller pieces to appreciate the dish better. I struggled to eat it the first time, but now it's one of my summer essentials!

2. Bibimnaengmyeon (비빔냉면)

Bibimnaengmyeon is a spicy variation of traditional Korean naengmyeon. Unlike mulnaengmyeon, which is served in a cold broth, bibimnaengmyeon is mixed with a spicy sauce made from gochujang (Korean chili paste), vinegar, sugar, and other aromatic ingredients. Raw vegetables and cucumber slices usually garnish the dish. It's served cold, often with ice or in a chilled broth. If you're looking for a refreshing and spicy dish at the same time, this is the one for you! Depending on the restaurant, especially traditional ones, you can choose the spiciness level.

3. Bibimguksu (비빔국수)

Bibimguksu is a popular Korean dish, particularly enjoyed during the summer months for its refreshing and spicy flavors. Translated literally as "mixed noodles," bibimguksu consists of thin wheat noodles mixed in a spicy and sweet sauce, usually made with gochujang (Korean chili paste), vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil. It's often garnished with various fresh vegetables like cucumber, carrots, and lettuce, and sometimes topped with a hard-boiled egg or sliced meat. It's served at room temperature or slightly chilled, but not as cold as bibimnaengmyeon.