A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Banchan
A staple of Korean cuisine, banchan are small side dishes served with a meal.
banchan
BON-CHON
/ˈbɑnˌtʃɑn/ · bon · chan
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
They are also frequently mentioned in articles and blogs discussing Korean food culture and home cooking.
Where the word comes from
From Korean 반찬 (banchan), likely from Middle Chinese 飯粲 (pjwensan), meaning 'side dish for rice'.
Common ways people get it wrong
- BAN-shun The 'ch' sound is like in 'church', not like 'sh' in 'nation'. Keep the 'ch' sound clear.
- BAN-jan The 'ch' sound is voiceless, like in 'chair', not voiced like the 'j' in 'jam'.
Frequently asked
What does banchan mean?
Banchan refers to the small side dishes that accompany a Korean meal. They are an integral part of the dining experience, offering a variety of flavors and textures.
How many banchan are usually served?
The number can vary greatly, from just a few to over a dozen. Typically, a standard meal might include three to five different banchan.
What are common types of banchan?
Common banchan include kimchi, seasoned vegetables like spinach or bean sprouts, pickled radishes, and small portions of stir-fried or braised items.
