[RESTAURANT OF THE WEEK] Geuni Sikdang offers a taste of North Korea in Cheonan

Cheonan, a city in South Chungcheong Province, South Korea, is home to a local favorite that offers a taste of North Korea through its cuisine. The restaurant in question, Geuni Sikdang, is unassuming in appearance but boasts a unique menu. While Pyongyang naengmyeon, cold noodles, is widely known, Geuni Sikdang adds an exotic twist with its eobok jaengban.

Eobok jaengban is a boiled meat platter that originated in Pyongyang Market. It was often shared during business deals to impress potential clients. The platter features beef brisket, beef broth, leafy vegetables, and dumplings. Upon arrival, the dish boasted beautifully arranged beef cuts and a lit fire, igniting both the stove and the appetites of those present.

The dumplings served with eobok jaengban were exceptionally subtle. A mild kimchi mixed with tofu and bean sprouts added depth to the flavor profile. Interestingly, the broth for this dish was made daily and exclusively from hanwoo, a premium grade of Korean beef. The brisket and other "off-cuts" required careful handling to ensure proper cooking.