Korean Royal Cuisine Recipes & History: Surasang, Sinseollo, and Gungjung Tteokbokki

Royal Korean Cuisine Recipes & Stories – Surasang, Sinseollo, and Gungjung Tteokbokki

Korean royal cuisine, also known as gungjung yori (궁중요리), is one of the most refined and sophisticated aspects of Korea’s culinary heritage. Rooted in the Joseon Dynasty, these dishes were not only meant to satisfy hunger but also to reflect balance, health, and the dignity of the royal court. Today, three of the most celebrated examples of Korean palace food are Surasang, Sinseollo, and Gungjung Tteokbokki. In this article, we’ll explore their history, cultural significance, and modern-day recipes so you can recreate a touch of Korean royalty in your own kitchen.

The Story of Surasang (수라상)

Surasang refers to the royal table prepared for the king during the Joseon Dynasty. Unlike ordinary meals, Surasang was a meticulously arranged table that reflected balance, seasonal ingredients, and harmony of colors. Typically, the king’s meal included multiple dishes arranged symmetrically, often 12 side dishes (반찬) or more, alongside rice, soup, kimchi, and sauces.

Historical Significance

The Surasang was more than a meal—it was a ritual. The palace chefs, known as sura sanggung, were responsible for preparing the king’s meals with strict attention to hygiene, presentation, and medicinal balance. Every dish was carefully chosen to provide both flavor and health benefits, rooted in the principles of yin-yang and the five elements.

Modern Adaptation of Surasang

While it may be challenging to recreate the entire Surasang at home, you can prepare a simplified version inspired by the royal tradition. For example:

• Steamed rice
• Doenjang soup (soybean paste soup)
• Assorted vegetable namul (spinach, bean sprouts, bracken)
• Grilled fish (croaker or mackerel)
• Jeon (Korean savory pancakes)
• Kimchi varieties

Sinseollo (신선로) – The Royal Hot Pot

Sinseollo is perhaps one of the most iconic dishes of Korean royal cuisine. It is a grand hot pot made with beef, seafood, vegetables, mushrooms, and glass noodles simmered in a rich broth. Traditionally, it was cooked in a unique brass or silver vessel with a charcoal brazier in the center, keeping the dish warm throughout the meal.

Symbolism & Royal Elegance

Sinseollo symbolizes abundance, harmony, and hospitality. It was often served at royal banquets and state dinners, showcasing both the wealth of the court and the culinary mastery of the royal chefs. Every ingredient was layered with precision, creating a dish that was visually stunning as well as deeply nourishing.

Simple Sinseollo Recipe (Home-Friendly)

Here’s a modern adaptation that you can try at home:

• Beef brisket (thinly sliced)
• Shrimp and fish fillets
• Shiitake and enoki mushrooms
• Glass noodles (dangmyeon)
• Seasonal vegetables (carrot, zucchini, spinach)
• Beef or chicken broth with soy sauce and garlic

Layer the ingredients neatly in a wide pot, pour in the broth, and simmer until flavors blend beautifully. For authenticity, arrange the ingredients symmetrically to capture the essence of royal presentation.

Gungjung Tteokbokki (궁중떡볶이) – Royal Rice Cake Dish

Unlike the spicy red tteokbokki we see today, the royal version is made with soy sauce, beef, mushrooms, and vegetables. Known for its savory and slightly sweet taste, Gungjung Tteokbokki is considered the ancestor of modern tteokbokki and is still enjoyed as a healthier, less spicy alternative.

Historical Background

During the Joseon era, chili peppers had not yet become a mainstream ingredient. Thus, palace chefs flavored tteokbokki with soy sauce, sesame oil, and beef, making it a luxurious delicacy reserved for the royal family.

Recipe for Gungjung Tteokbokki

• Garaetteok (Korean rice cakes, cut into 5–6 cm pieces)
• Beef (julienned)
• Carrot, onion, shiitake mushrooms
• Soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Stir-fry the beef and vegetables, add the rice cakes, then season with soy sauce and sesame oil. Finish with sesame seeds for a touch of elegance. The result is a savory, glossy dish that captures the spirit of the royal court.

Why Korean Royal Cuisine Still Matters Today

Korean royal cuisine is not only about taste—it represents the philosophy of balance, health, and artistry in dining. Surasang demonstrates harmony and abundance, Sinseollo showcases unity and celebration, and Gungjung Tteokbokki bridges the past and present of Korean food culture. By learning these dishes, we also inherit the wisdom of Korea’s culinary history.

Conclusion

Korean royal cuisine remains a cultural treasure, connecting us to centuries of tradition, artistry, and balance in food. Whether you recreate a simplified Surasang, prepare a warm Sinseollo hot pot, or enjoy the savory delight of Gungjung Tteokbokki, you are experiencing a piece of Korea’s royal legacy. Try these recipes at home, share them with friends, and keep the royal table alive in today’s kitchens.

References

• National Palace Museum of Korea – Official Website
• Korean Food Promotion Institute – Hansik.org
• "Royal Cuisine of the Joseon Dynasty" – Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea