Tongyeong oyster

Tongyeong

Tongyeong · Pacific Coast, South Korea · Crassostrea gigas

South Korea's oyster capital — Tongyeong produces more oysters than anywhere else in the country. The sheltered island-studded Hallyeohaesang National Marine Park's warm, plankton-rich water produces plump, sweet oysters with deep umami and mild brine. Rarely exported but dominant in Korean cuisine.

Salinity2/5
Sweetness4/5
Minerality2/5
Umami4/5
Textureplump
Finishumami
Shelllarge, elongated

Rich umami sweetness benefits from acid.

Korean MakgeolliDry SakeKorean Lagersoy saucegochujangsesame oil
Cultivationsuspended-longline · 12–18 monthsWaterSouth Sea (Hallyeohaesang)Appearancelarge · elongated