Nakji Bokkeum
Nakji Bokkeum is a fiery and beloved Korean stir-fry dish featuring tender octopus pieces tossed in a vibrant, spicy sauce. The sauce is typically made from gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), gochujang (chili paste), garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, often with vegetables like onions, scallions, and cabbage. It's a popular dish from South Korea, enjoyed both as a hearty meal and as a flavorful drinking snack (anju).
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is primarily high in protein from the octopus and is generally low in carbohydrates and fat, especially if not prepared with excessive oil. It provides essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, and selenium, with a typical serving containing roughly 250-350 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbs | 18 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 950 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 18 mcg |
| Selenium | 76 mcg |
| Iron | 5.4 mg |
| Phosphorus | 280 mg |
| Zinc | 3.8 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Potassium | 420 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.6 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Nakji Bokkeum is a quintessential example of Korean 'bokkeum' (stir-fry) cuisine and is often associated with the vibrant food scene of places like Pojangmacha (street food stalls). Its intense spiciness is not just for flavor; capsaicin from the chili is believed to have metabolism-boosting properties, making it a popular choice for a hearty, energizing meal.
