Hotteok, sweet pancake, Korean street food

Korean has a lot to offer, and one of the must-try foods when visiting South Korea is Hotteok. This sweet pancake is popular among locals and tourists alike, and is perfect as a quick snack or dessert. It is made from a simple dough filled with a sweet syrup and topped with nuts and seeds. Taking a bite of hotteok is like taking a bite of heaven.

Hotteok is said to have originated in China and was introduced to Korea through traders who used to travel the Silk Road. It has now become a staple in Korea, and is especially popular during the winter season when people are looking for warm and comforting food. You can find hotteok stands along the streets and in food markets, and the aroma of hotteok cooking can easily lead you to them.

The pancake dough is made from flour, yeast, sugar, salt, water, and milk. The dough is kneaded until it is smooth and elastic, then left to rise for a few hours. Once the dough has risen, the filling is added. The filling is traditionally made from brown sugar, cinnamon, honey, and chopped nuts. Some vendors also add fruits like strawberries, grapes, or diced apples to create a more refreshing and fruity flavor.

The filling is added to the center of the dough, then the edges are sealed and rolled into a ball. The ball is then flattened and fried in a shallow pan until it is golden brown on both sides. The sweet aroma of the hotteok cooking will surely tempt anyone passing by, and it is hard to resist buying one or two to sample.

When ready, the hotteok is served on a small paper plate and topped with a variety of seeds and nuts like sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, and peanuts. Some vendors also sprinkle a bit of sugar on top to add more sweetness. Hotteok is best enjoyed while it is still hot, as the syrup inside is still gooey and sticky.

Many people find hotteok addicting as its sweetness is just right, not too much but enough to satisfy your sugar cravings. It is also perfect for cold weather, as hotteok will warm your hands and your belly. Its texture is soft and chewy yet crispy on the outside, making it a perfect snack for any time of the day.

In addition to the traditional hotteok, vendors are now offering different variations of it. Some even add savory fillings like meat, cheese, and vegetables. You can also try different flavors like chocolate, green tea, and red bean. These flavors are not traditional, but their popularity has been rising among younger generations.

In conclusion, hotteok is a staple street food in Korea that you should definitely try when visiting. Its delicious sweetness and chewy texture make it a perfect snack, especially during the winter season. You can find hotteok stands all over Korea, and they are usually open from early morning until late at night. Do not hesitate to buy and try, as hotteok is sure to satisfy your hunger and sweet tooth cravings.