Updated May 8, 2023
For pregnant women who love Korean BBQ, the big question on their mind is usually, “Can I eat Korean BBQ while pregnant?”
The answer to that question is a little complicated.
But don’t despair!
You’ll find most of your favorites are safe or can be safely prepared!
We love Korean BBQ too!
As an OB/GYN and RN we couldn’t wait to dive into this topic and share the BEST options for expectant moms to be!
While there are many safe foods that you can eat in a Korean BBQ restaurant, it is not advisable to eat raw meat while you are pregnant.
So thoroughly cooking your meat is a priority.
In this article, we will discuss some of the safest options for eating Korean BBQ while pregnant.
We will also provide a list of restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious and safe meal.
Can I eat Korean bbq while pregnant?
Yes, you can eat Korean BBQ while pregnant as long as you follow some simple safety precautions.
When it comes to Korean BBQ, the main concern for pregnant women is the risk of food poisoning.
This is because raw meat can often be contaminated with bacteria.
If you are pregnant, it is important to make sure that the meat you eat is thoroughly cooked.
This means that you should avoid eating any meat that is pink or rare.
One of the safest options for eating Korean BBQ while pregnant is to grill your meat until it is well done.
If you order a grilled prepared for you option the meat is usually cooked well done and is safe to eat.
Another option is to order kimchi or other fermented vegetables.
These are also safe to eat during pregnancy.
Yes, that’s right fermented foods are safe to eat during pregnancy.
They are one of the healthiest choices you can make.
Add in a side of grilled to perfection lean chicken, rice, and salad with Korean dressing and you will be feeding yourself and your growing baby a power-pack of nutrition!
One of the many amazing Korean BBQ meals we have had!
Image: Maternity Comfort Solutions
Can I eat gochujang while pregnant?
Yes, you can eat gochujang while pregnant.
This fermented chili paste is safe to eat during pregnancy and can add flavor to your meals.
Just be sure to check the label to make sure it does not contain any raw fish or meat.
Gochujang can usually be found in the international aisle of your local grocery store.
What about other Korean sauces?
Many other Korean sauces are safe to eat during pregnancy.
These include doenjang (fermented soybean paste), ssamjang (a thick and spicy sauce), and gogi-jang (a sweet and savory sauce made with red peppers).
You should avoid any sauce made from raw fish or shellfish.
What are some other safe options for pregnant women?
Some other safe options for pregnant women include:
- bulgogi (marinated beef)
- dak galbi (stir-fried chicken)
- bibimbap (a rice dish with vegetables and meat),
- Chadol baegi (Korean beef brisket)
- Hawaiian steak, and Hawaiian chicken (marinated chicken or beef served with pineapple slices)
- Shrimp and spicy cajun shrimp (Grill them until completely cooked)
- Galbi (Marinated short ribs)
You can usually find these dishes at most Korean BBQ restaurants.
This is list is not all-inclusive, most meat dishes are safe if you cook them thoroughly.
Just be sure to cook your meat until well-done meats to avoid the risk of food poisoning.
Can I eat tteokbokki while pregnant?
Yes, you can eat tteokbokki while pregnant.
This dish is made with rice cakes, vegetables, and a spicy sauce.
It is safe to eat during pregnancy and can be found at most Korean restaurants.
Is it safe to eat bibimbap during pregnancy?
Korean cuisine is full of delicious and nutritious dishes, but some are better suited for pregnant women than others.
A popular Korean rice dish, Bibimbap is traditionally made with beef, vegetables, and an egg.
While the protein and vitamins in this dish are certainly good for pregnancy, there are a few things to consider before digging in.
First of all, pregnant women should avoid raw or undercooked eggs.
The best way to enjoy bibimbap during pregnancy is to make sure that the egg is cooked through.
In addition, it is important to choose lean cuts of beef and limit the amount of gochujang, a spicy red pepper paste, that is used in the dish.
With a few simple adjustments, bibimbap can be a healthy and satisfying option for pregnant women.
Is it okay to eat samgyupsal while pregnant?
It’s a common misconception that pregnant women shouldn’t eat samgyupsal because it’s high in fat.
There is also a risk of toxoplasmosis infection from eating undercooked pork.
However, there’s no need to avoid this delicious Korean dish if you’re expecting.
In fact, samgyupsal is actually a great source of protein and other nutrients that are essential for a healthy pregnancy.
The key is to moderate your intake and be sure it is cooked until it is well-done..
As long as you do that, you can enjoy all the benefits of samgyupsal without worrying about harming your baby.
Can I eat Korean ramen while pregnant?
Expectant mothers often have many questions about what they can and cannot eat during pregnancy.
Korean ramen is a delicious and popular dish, but is it safe to eat while pregnant?
The answer may surprise you.
While most ramen noodles are made with wheat flour, some brands of Korean ramen noodles are made with rice flour instead.
This makes them a good option for expectant mothers who are avoiding gluten.
In addition, the sodium content of Korean ramen noodles is generally lower than that of other types of ramen noodles.
This is important to consider because high sodium intake can increase the risk of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy.
However, it is important to note that not all brands of Korean ramen noodles are created equal.
Some brands add more salt, MSG, and other additives than others.
So, when choosing a brand of Korean ramen noodles to eat during pregnancy, be sure to read the label carefully to make sure you are getting a healthy product.
When it comes to eating Korean ramen noodles while pregnant, moderation is key.
Enjoy them as part of a balanced diet, and don’t forget to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Korean food to avoid during pregnancy:
- Pickled raw seafood
- Raw meat
- Kimchi that has been sitting out for a long period of time
- Any sauce that is made with raw fish or shellfish
Is it safe to eat kimchi while pregnant?
Kimchi is a popular Korean dish made of fermented cabbage and other vegetables. It is usually quite spicy, and many pregnant women wonder if it is safe to eat.
While there is no definitive answer, properly prepared kimchi is generally safe for pregnant women to eat in moderation.
The fermentation process helps to kill harmful bacteria, and the spice level can actually help to reduce nausea.
However, it is important to choose kimchi that has been made with fresh ingredients, as older kimchi may contain higher levels of bacteria.
Pregnant women should also avoid eating kimchi that has been sitting out at room temperature, as this can increase the risk of foodborne illness.
Kimchi that has been opened will spoil within a few days so if you have any doubts toss it out.
It isn’t worth the risk of developing a serious food-borne illness.
It is important that pregnant women eat kimchi that has been fermented properly and the best kin chi to consume is the one that has been pasteurized or thoroughly heated. Do not eat raw kinchi during pregnancy
Overall, kimchi is a healthy and delicious option for pregnant women, but it is important to exercise caution when consuming it.
Kimchi can contain dangerous pathogens that can cause illness including:
- E.Coli,
- Listeria
- Salmonella
Common symptoms of a severe foodborne illness from eating fermented foods and undercooked meats are:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Fever
Here are a few of our favorite Korean BBQ Restaurants:
Gen Korean BBQ: This restaurant has several locations in California, Texas, Nevada, Hawaii, and Arizona.
This is our personal favorite.
Be sure to add the GEN Salad as one of your sides!
The salad dressing is addictive.
I love the corn cheese as a side dish and it is also safe to enjoy during pregnancy.
Gangnam Style BBQ: This restaurant is located in Koreatown, Los Angeles, and has several other locations.
They offer a variety of different meats that are grilled to perfection.
They are beloved for their pork belly dishes!
But their beef and chicken dishes are safe and excellent choices too.
Seoul Jung: This restaurant is located in Flushing, Queens.
They offer a variety of different meats and vegetables that are simply delicious!.
The rib-eye steak, duck breast, and green onion salad are just a few of their menu items that are worth trying.
K-Town BBQ: This restaurant is located in Manhattan, New York with locations across the US.
They offer a variety of different meats and vegetables that are grilled to perfection.
No matter where you choose to eat, make sure that you order well-done meats and avoid eating any raw meat.
By following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy a delicious and safe meal at a Korean BBQ restaurant.
List of foods to not eat when pregnant:
- Foods that are not pasteurized- certain types of cheese like soft cheeses, Brie, Blue Cheese, etc.
- Certain types of fish- shark, swordfish, anything high in mercury
- Raw eggs including egg nog, hollandaise sauce, homemade mayonnaise, and runny eggs.
- Undercooked meats- lunch meats.
- Hot foods that are not “hot”, avoid hot foods that have been sitting out without a warming source. Same for foods that should be eaten cold. If there is no ice or refrigeration source keeping the food cold, take a pass.
- Caffeine- soda, chocolate. (Limit your caffeine to less than 200 mg a day)
- Herbal Teas (There are so many ingredients in herbal teas so it is best to avoid them simply. Green tea is OK.)
Foods you should eat during pregnancy:
- Avocado
- Oatmeal
- Pinto Beans
- Arugula
- Bananas
- Dark Green Leafy Vegetables
- Brussel sprouts
- Carrots
- Green Beans
- Eggs
- Lean Meats
Healthy snacks during pregnancy:
- Whole-grain crackers with peanut butter
- Dry whole-grain cereal
- Bagel and cream cheese
- Pretzels with cheese
- Hummus and carrot sticks
- Granola bars
- Apple chips
- Whole apple
- Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich
- Chicken Salad Sandwich
What should a pregnant woman eat daily?
A pregnant woman needs to consume a variety of nutrients every day to support both her own health and the development of her baby.
Protein is essential for building new tissue and can be found in meat, poultry, fish, legumes, and eggs.
Calcium is necessary for strong bones and teeth and is especially important during the third trimester when the baby’s skeleton is rapidly developing.
Pregnant women should aim to get 1000 mg of calcium per day from low-fat dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese.
Iron is also important for the formation of new blood cells, and pregnant women need about 27 mg of iron per day.
Good sources of iron include lean red meat, dark leafy greens, and fortified cereals.
Final Thoughts
Conclusion paragraph: So, can you eat Korean BBQ while pregnant?
The answer is yes, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
Make sure the meat is cooked all the way through and avoid any dishes that contain raw or undercooked ingredients.
Also, try to stick to moderate portion sizes and drink plenty of water.
With those guidelines in mind, enjoy your next meal at a Korean BBQ restaurant!
