Sannakji

I just came back from my trip to Seoul, Korea. Lots of interesting culinary adventures, but this one is the best: sannakji. That's live octopus, chopped up and served quickly. As is usual for Korean meals, it is served with a number of side dishes such as pickled radish, vegetables, soup, etc. It is served with two dipping sauce: a fermented chili soybean paste, and a sesame oil mixed with salt.





Of course, the pictures are not that helpful in the experience...here is a video that will help:


The octopus still moves around on the plate, and in fact the suction cups are still somewhat active. It is rather interesting when they stick to the plate, the spoon, the dipping sauce dish, and, even my tongue and the inside of the mouth. I did chew carefully to make sure that it doesn't get stuck on my throat.

Luckily I never had any "fear factor" to worry about. It actually does taste very good, especially with the sesame oil dipping sauce. The experience is very enjoyable, and too bad it is difficult to get it at home.