Nuance Dictionary / The Soul of Korean Broth
담백하다 dam-baek-ha-da
Clean, mild, and non-greasy; tasting natural without heavy seasoning
What does 담백하다 mean?
담백하다 (dam-baek-ha-da) means: Clean, mild, and non-greasy; tasting natural without heavy seasoning.
Highly praised in traditional Korean cuisine. Means it doesn't overwhelm the palate.
🎙️ 담백하다는 표기 그대로 읽지 않아요 — 실제로는 [담배카다]로 소리나요 (격음화). 발음 연습하기 →
How it's actually used
- 이 집 만두는 국물이 담백해서 자주 와요.
i jip mandu-neun gukmuri dambaekhaeseo jaju wayo.
I come here often because the dumplings have a clean, light broth.
💡 Used to praise food that isn't greasy or overly seasoned. - 오늘 밤 야식으로는 좀 담백한 걸 먹고 싶어.
oneul bam yasigeuro-neun jom dambaekan geol meokgo sipeo.
I want to eat something light and mild for a midnight snack tonight.
💡 Refers to a craving for simple, non-heavy food. - 이 집 만두는 고기 대신 두부가 많이 들어가서 맛이 참 담백해.
i jip manduneun gogi daesin dubuga mani deureogaseo masi cham dambakhae.
The dumplings at this place use a lot of tofu instead of meat, so the taste is very clean and light.
💡 Describes food that is light, non-greasy, and refreshing to the palate.
Related words in The Soul of Korean Broth
감칠맛(이 나다) gam-chil-mat걸쭉하다 geol-jjuk-ha-da진하다 jin-ha-da구수하다 gu-su-ha-da