Hotteok, the beloved Korean street food, offers a delightful explosion of sweet and savory flavors in every bite. These delectable pancakes, crafted from a simple yet magical dough, are then filled with a warm, gooey mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and often nuts or seeds. The slightly crispy exterior gives way to a soft, chewy interior, creating a truly unforgettable textural experience. Imagine the irresistible aroma of warm cinnamon and caramelized sugar filling the air – a sensory delight that perfectly captures the essence of Korean street food culture.
From humble beginnings to a global culinary phenomenon, hotteok's popularity is well-deserved. This recipe guides you through every step, from creating the perfect dough to achieving that signature crispy-chewy texture and perfectly browned exterior. Ready to embark on a culinary journey and learn how to make these irresistible Korean pancakes at home? Let's get started!
Tools Needed
- bowl
- cling film
- pan
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Make the Dough
- Combine water, flour, sugar, and oil. The mixture should be around 38-39°C.
- Add yeast to the water mixture; it should foam.
- Mix the activated yeast mixture with the flour.
- Cover the dough and let it double in size for about an hour.
- Gently fold and press the dough to release air bubbles.
- Let the dough rise again.
Step 2. Prepare the Fillings
- Combine toasted mixed seeds, brown sugar (or white sugar), and cinnamon.
- Grate cheese.
Step 3. Assemble and Shape the Pancakes
- Take a portion of dough, place filling in the center, pinch and seal the edges to form a ball. (Practice makes perfect!)
Step 4. Cook the Pancakes
- Heat oil in a pan. Cook the pancakes over medium heat for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. They will puff up.
Read more: Gochujang Korean BBQ Rice Bowl: 15-Minute Recipe
Tips
- Even the proofing doesn’t take that long, unlike traditional yeasty dough.
- The dough is very watery. It will run a little bit under heat; that’s fine.
- For the cheese filling, grating the cheese makes it easier to handle and prevents spillage.
- Don't worry if some sugar spills out during cooking; it's part of the process.
Nutrition
- Calories: Insufficient data
- Fat: Insufficient datag
- Protein: Insufficient datag
- Carbs: Insufficient datag
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of cheese in the pancakes?
Absolutely! Experiment with mozzarella, cheddar, or even a Korean cheese like mozzarella for a unique flavor.
2. What if my dough is too sticky?
Add a tablespoon or two of flour at a time until the dough becomes easier to handle. Don't add too much, or the pancakes will be tough.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade Korean pancakes! These savory-sweet treats are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. We hope you have fun experimenting with different fillings and toppings to create your own unique variations.