Before it used to be Italian, Indian, Continental, and Chinese, but now Indians also host Korean feasts. It includes not just preparing Korean food but also arranging the table to set the authentic vibe. From arranging the chopsticks to serving food in the Korean style, there are many things that you need to focus on simultaneously.
It is quite similar to an Indian table set-up, only the tableware, dishes, and meal layout are slightly different. However, if you have been watching a lot of K-dramas and visiting Korean restaurants, setting the original vibe won’t be a task for you. Here is how you can turn your Indian dining room into a Korean supper space.
Arrange Tableware
The first step to setting the table is arranging the tableware. Various dishes are a part of the supper, so you have to set tableware for each in the same fashion. You start from the left where you will place a small bowl containing steamed rice, which is usually sticky. On the right-hand side of it, you place a large bowl in which you will be serving stew or soup. It should be deep enough to contain Korean noodles.
On the right-hand side of the table mat, place chopsticks and spoon. Since most people eat with their right hand, this will help with the accessibility. Make sure to place the flatware on a napkin. If you are serving side dishes like omelette, kimchi, and more, arrange small plates around the main dish, which could also be ramyeon for which the bowl must be at the centre of the mat. If it is grilled fish or something else that needs to be served on a plate, place it at the centre.
Layout Meals
Since you are hosting a meal at home, you do not arrange the food in the plates and bowls. Instead, you keep everything on the table runner at the centre, much like how an Indian dinner table is set. For example, keep the main dish at the centre, rice and soup containers on either side of it, and more.
If you are serving side dishes like seasoned vegetables, kimchi, or pickled radishes, arrange them around the main dish kept at the centre of the table. People will go around and ask for what they would like to be served. If you are serving Korean BBQ, don’t forget to lay out lettuce and leafy greens to wrap the meat and veggies around.
Serving Etiquette
Once the table is set and guests are seated, next comes the task of serving. This is also similar to how Indians eat. The food is first served to elders and guests before you serve yourself. Chopsticks are used to serve side dishes and spoons for rice, soup, and main dishes.
You also serve the drinks before settling for your dinner. Koreans, much like most Asians, eat slowly and enjoy every bite. Therefore, be wary of the pace with which your guests are relishing the food and match with them rather than eating too fast or slow.
How To Serve Drinks
If your guests are not Korean, you can skip pouring drinks with both of your hands. However, if you are trying to establish authentic vibes, you should follow their manners. Get soju, barley tea, or makgeolli for dinner or lunch. Serve tea in small cups and soju or alcoholic drinks in clear glasses. Drinks with spicy Korean food pair well and help to tone down the spiciness.
Final Touches
If you have watched a lot of K-dramas, you know that Koreans don’t like blingy setups. You should select neutral tablecloth pieces and runners along with white flowers to decorate the space. While presenting the meals, make sure the food is arranged nicely in platters and there are no spills on the sides of the tableware.
Make sure when you are making Korean delicacies at home, you keep the balance of flavours according to what your guests prefer. The last thing to look out for while plating is serving in small portions so that no food goes to waste.