John Myers
Introduction: Traditional Korean Desserts on the Streets
When we think of Korean cuisine, we often think of savory dishes like bulgogi or bibimbap. However, Korea has a rich tradition of desserts that are just as delicious and unique. In recent years, these traditional Korean desserts have gained popularity on the streets, offering locals and tourists alike a sweet taste of Korean culture. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular Korean street desserts and where to find them.
Popular Korean Street Desserts and Their History
One of the most well-known Korean street desserts is hotteok. This sweet pancake is filled with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts, and then fried until it’s crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Hotteok has been a popular street food in Korea for over 50 years, and it’s often eaten during the winter months when people are looking for a warm, comforting treat.
Another popular Korean street dessert is bungeoppang. This fish-shaped pastry is filled with sweet red bean paste and is a popular snack for both children and adults. Bungeoppang has been around for over 100 years and was originally made using an iron mold that was heated over a fire.
Tteokbokki is another classic Korean street food that has a sweet twist. This dish is made with chewy rice cakes and a spicy sauce, but some vendors add a sweet syrup or sugar to balance out the heat. Tteokbokki has been a popular street food in Korea for decades and is often enjoyed as a late-night snack.
Where to Find Authentic Korean Street Desserts
If you’re looking for authentic Korean street desserts, the best place to start is in traditional markets like Namdaemun or Gwangjang in Seoul. These markets have been around for centuries and offer a variety of Korean street food, including desserts. You can also find street vendors selling hotteok and bungeoppang in popular tourist areas like Myeong-dong and Insadong.
For tteokbokki, head to Sindang-dong in Seoul. This area is known as the birthplace of tteokbokki and has dozens of vendors selling this classic Korean street food. You can also find tteokbokki at any traditional market, but if you’re looking for the best of the best, Sindang-dong is the place to go.
In conclusion, Korean street desserts are a delicious and unique way to experience Korean culture. From hotteok to bungeoppang to tteokbokki, these desserts offer a sweet taste of Korea that you won’t find anywhere else. So next time you’re in Korea, be sure to try these delicious treats and experience the rich tradition of Korean desserts on the streets.
