Unveiling Jeju Island’s Hidden Gems: 21 Years of Crafting Korea’s Most Unique Dishes
Discover the Flavors of Jeju Island: Meet the Artisan Behind Kinyi Porridge
Meet Han Soo-yeol, the Master of Kinyi Porridge
On Jeju Island in South Korea, there is an artisan who has been perfecting the art of local cuisine for 38 years, with 21 of those years dedicated to cooking the iconic “Jeju Kinyi” porridge. Han Soo-yeol, the representative of the “Momejeong” restaurant, is the mastermind behind this beloved dish.
The Secret to Authentic Kinyi Porridge
“Kinyi” means “crab” in the Jeju dialect, and can be found in rocky areas in shallow waters in the Jeju sea. While many restaurants serve abalone porridge and Kubogai porridge, few offer authentic Kinyi porridge. CEO Han’s traditional cooking methods have earned him the title of “Jeju’s only Kinyi Congee Maker.”
The Nutritional Benefits of Kinyi Porridge
Kinyi is a small crab, but it is rich in calcium and chitosan, making it an excellent choice for bone and muscle health. Jeju haenyeo divers have long enjoyed Kinyi as a nutritional supplement during the summer months. CEO Han’s Kinyi porridge recipe is simple, using only Kinyi and rice, allowing the nutrients to shine in every bowl.
Exploring the Flavors of Jeju at Momejeong Restaurant
At Momejeong Restaurant, you can also indulge in other delicious dishes, such as “Nurition Kalguksu” (Korean-style udon noodles) made with Kinyi soup stock, and “Kinyi-age,” a whole deep-fried Kinyi. In 2010, CEO Han won the grand prize in the ”Jeju Local Cuisine Contest” for his kalguksu made with quince.
A Commitment to Local Ingredients and Tradition
CEO Han’s passion for local ingredients and traditional cooking methods is rooted in his upbringing. Growing up in a family of scuba divers and fishermen, he continues to harvest his own ingredients from the sea and mountains of Jeju. Next year, the restaurant will relocate to Gimnyeong-ri in Gujaeup, Jeju City, where they will offer hands-on fishing experiences and education, promoting Kinyi food as Jeju’s local cuisine.