Bibimbap was one of the first traditional dishes I had after arriving in Korea (I even had an airplane version on the way over, and though it was quite tasty for airplane food, it didn’t compare to the real deal). It basically translates to mixed rice and traditionally consists of warm rice topped with seasoned vegetables, an egg and a modest amount of thinly sliced beef. Bibimbap is famous in the city of Jeonju where it was first found in a cookbook—Siuijeonseo from the 19th century—and is believed to have been a royal dish/snack from the Joseon Dynasty. (I was lucky enough to enjoy a large bowl of traditional Jeonju bibimbap during my EPIK orientation, but unfortunately didn’t get a picture of it.)
Usually, bibimbap is served either cold with a fried egg on top or in a sizzling hot stone pot with a raw egg which cooks when you mix everything together. The latter, called dolsot bibimbap, is my favorite. The stone pot is lightly coated with sesame oil and because it’s so hot, the bottom layer of rice gets slightly crispy. Gochujang (spicy red pepper paste) is typically served right on top in the bowl alongside the vegetables and the egg. Once mixed together thoroughly, you’re in for spoonfuls of deliciousness (yes, Koreans eat bibimbap with a spoon, not chopsticks).
Dolsot bibimbap is served in a sizzling hot stone pot. The raw egg starts to cook when you mix everything together.
Before eating bibimbap you must thoroughly mix everything together.
David’s first time enjoying bibimbap, which was of course accompanied by an array of side dishes (banchan), as well as beer (maekju) and soju.
A Pocketful of Kimchi 
O Man. I read this right before dinner and it looks so good and so unobtainable. Mark (and Laura).
Looks good! I love bibimbap 😛
Looks and sounds good. And you are correct, Mark, unobtainable for us!
I’ve had that before and boy was it delicious! Just looking at this reminds me of how good the bottom bits of burnt rice tasted so yummy and sweet.