The Big Tree House cafe and restaurant at Balmain offers more than just a meal – it delivers an immersive cultural experience. Central to this is their signature ‘Big Tray’, which pays tribute to the rich traditions of Korean dining, where a main dish is accompanied by a variety of complementary side dishes known as banchan.
Banchan: The Essence of Korean Dining
Photo credit: http2007 (flickr)
In Korean cuisine, meals are not merely about satisfying hunger but are a celebration of balance, variety, and communal sharing. A typical Korean meal includes a main dish, rice, soup, and multiple banchan – small side dishes that provide a range of flavours and textures. These side dishes are integral to the meal’s harmony and nutritional balance.
Historically, the tradition of serving multiple banchan stems from Korea’s agricultural past, where seasonal vegetables were preserved through fermentation and pickling to ensure year-round availability. This practice extended the shelf life of produce while also introducing complex flavours and health benefits to the Korean diet.
The Big Tray: A Contemporary Interpretation
At The Big Tree House, the Big Tray encapsulates this tradition by presenting a main dish, such as bulgogi (marinated grilled beef) or spicy pork, accompanied by a selection of banchan. These side dishes may include kimchi, seasoned spinach, pickled radish, and stir-fried vegetables, among others. Each component is thoughtfully prepared to complement the main dish, offering a variety of flavours that range from spicy and tangy to savoury and sweet.
This presentation not only introduces diners to the depth of Korean flavours but also embodies the communal spirit of Korean dining, where sharing and variety are celebrated.
Cultural Significance and Communial Experience
That’s why the Big Tray is more than a meal! It’s an opportunity to experience the communal and inclusive nature of Korean dining. In Korean culture, meals are often shared, with dishes placed at the centre of the table for everyone to enjoy. This fosters a sense of togetherness and reflects the cultural emphasis on community and harmony.
By bringing this experience to Balmain, The Big Tree House gives its customers the chance to engage with Korean culinary traditions through the universal language of food.
Come Visit us in Balmain
At The Big Tree House, care and quality are evident in every Big Tray served. We source fresh ingredients and thoughtfully prepare the complementary side dishes. Whether you’re already a lover of Korean cuisine or a curious newcomer, the Big Tray offers a wonderful experience of the flavours and customs that define Korean dining.
For more information, visit The Big Tree House Menu or follow us on Instagram. Don’t forget to make a Reservation!