Smoke and Pickles? All the headlines riff on the fact that a Southern food - Korean food mix is surprising, but I think it sounds delicious! Further West, Anthony Bourdain's favorite places to eat in L.A.'s Koreatown. Going to the where it all began? Ten notable places to eat around South Korea.

Just starting your love affair with Korean food? Start at the Korean Food Primer.

Also read Korean Food 101.

Ramps are one of my favorite spring vegetables because my grandmother used to make kimchi and salads with them every year. To me, these seasoned ramps (dalae) taste like spring and childhood and they brighten any Korean meal.

Other Resources:

10 Great Spring Vegetables

Spring Vegetable Recipe Collection

Candied Ginger

Ginger Chicken Recipe

Soju Ginger Fizz Cocktail

Spicy Ginger Beef