KOREA FOUNDATION

In the history of home parties, many a host has faced a race against the clock to prepare and serve a meal, with little time found to actually spend together with their loved ones. Often, guests’ pleasure has meant the host’s sacrifice. However, things have changed in recent years, putting an emphasis on consideration for the time and circumstances of all people involved and providing easier solutions that allow both host and invitees to enjoy one another’s company. When year-end festivities draw near, the Western style potluck party has become a familiar choice for many Koreans. But what specific dishes and desserts make an appearance on the table at these home parties around the world?

In Korea, festivities often evoke an image of noodles, but noodles aren’t exactly easy for guests to bring with them. A much better treat to celebrate friends and their efforts over the past year might be the treasured dish neobiani, thinly sliced, marinated, and grilled beef. Literally “beef sliced into broad sections,” neobiani originated from the traditional dish maekjeok, charcoal-barbecued beef skewers. It’s said to have been frequently served to important guests in palaces and homes of noble families. And it’s also rather simple to cook, taking only about 20 to 30 minutes.

On the other side of the globe in Argentina, year-end parties held around Christmas usually feature vitel toné. The dish is made with cooked slices of veal served with a creamy sauce and a sprinkling of capers. As Argentina is rather warm in December, the dish is often served cold.

In Italy, pesce alla griglia, grilled fish, is a must at any year-end dinner. Fish steak is grilled and served topped with tomato sauce, creating a wonderful harmony of tender meat and a sweet yet acidic topping.

Turrón, a dessert made of caramel and toasted nuts, is the representative year-end delicacy in Spain. It’s similar to Korean yeot rice candy or nougat and its taste varies according to the quantity of nuts and the concentration of caramel.

Desserts are also popular at year-end festivities in Australia. Named after the legendary Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova who visited Australia in 1926, the airy pavlova is an indispensable dessert at holiday parties in both Australia and New Zealand. It’s a delightfully crisp and crunchy meringue-based cake topped with cream and fruit.

People preparing for year-end home parties tend to stress about the menu. But in the end, whether you offer meat, fish, or a sweet dessert to your guests, what’s truly important is sharing a good time as you gather your loved ones together to bid farewell to the passing year. On such an occasion, a simple bowl of tteokbokki (spicy stir-fried rice cake) or a box of fried chicken may be all you need. Or you can incorporate in your menu new dishes from across the globe to make your gathering just that much more exciting!

Written by Kim Shinyoung
Illustrated by Jeong Hyoju