How to Make Traditional Korean Desserts at Home

Korean desserts, known for their unique flavors and textures, offer a delightful treat for anyone looking to explore new culinary adventures. Making traditional Korean desserts at home can be satisfying and rewarding. Below are some popular recipes, tips, and techniques to help you recreate these delightful sweets.

Exploring Popular Korean Desserts

Before diving into the recipes, let’s look at a few popular Korean desserts that you can make at home:

  • Tteok (Rice Cake)
  • Bingsu (Shaved Ice)

1. Tteok (Korean Rice Cake)

Tteok is a staple in Korean cuisine, often enjoyed during celebrations and special occasions.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups sweet rice flour (also known as “glutinous rice flour”)
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup red bean paste (for filling)

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the sweet rice flour, sugar, and water. Stir until you achieve a smooth batter.
  2. Pour the mixture into a heatproof dish that fits in a steamer.
  3. Steam the mixture for about 20-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  4. Once it's firm, let it cool slightly. Then, take a piece and flatten it in your palm, adding a small amount of red bean paste in the center. Fold and mold it into a ball.
  5. Serve warm or at room temperature.

2. Bingsu (Korean Shaved Ice)

Bingsu is a refreshing dessert, perfect for hot summer days.

Ingredients:

  • 1 block of ice
  • 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup red bean paste
  • Fresh fruits (such as strawberries, mangoes, or kiwi)
  • Milk or fruit syrup (for drizzling)

Instructions:

  1. Shave the block of ice using a blender or a shaved ice machine until fluffy.
  2. Layer the shaved ice into a bowl.
  3. Top with condensed milk, red bean paste, and your choice of fresh fruits.
  4. Drizzle with additional milk or fruit syrup before serving.

3. Yaksik (Sweet Rice with Nuts)

Yaksik is a traditional Korean dessert made with sweet rice, nuts, and spices, often served during holidays.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups sweet rice
  • 1/2 cup honey or brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup walnuts or almonds
  • 1/4 cup dried fruits (such as jujubes or raisins)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

  1. Soak sweet rice in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. Steam the soaked rice for about 30 minutes until it's fully cooked.
  3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice with honey or sugar, nuts, dried fruits, soy sauce, and cinnamon.
  4. Let it cool slightly, then serve in small bowls.

4. Hotteok (Sweet Pancakes)

Hotteok are fluffy, filled pancakes that are a popular street food in Korea.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon yeast
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (for filling)
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts