If you’ve ever walked through the bustling streets of Korea, chances are you’ve smelled the irresistible aroma of hotteok. These sweet, chewy pancakes filled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and sunflower seeds are a beloved Korean street food. With this Authentic Korean Hotteok Recipe, you can bring a taste of Korea into your home.

Why You’ll Love Hotteok

Hotteok is more than just a dessert; it’s a cultural experience. Here’s why this treat is so special:

• Rich History: A traditional Korean snack that has stood the test of time.
• Simple Ingredients: You can make these with pantry staples.
• Unique Texture: Crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, with a molten sugar filling.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, dessert, or a mid-day snack.

Ingredients for Authentic Korean Hotteok

For the Dough:

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	1 1/2 cups
Sweet rice flour	1/2 cup
Active dry yeast	2 teaspoons
Sugar	2 tablespoons
Sea salt	1/2 teaspoon
Neutral oil	1 tablespoon
Warm water	3/4 cup

For the Filling:

Ingredient	Quantity
Brown sugar	1/2 cup
Cinnamon	1 teaspoon
Sunflower seeds	2 tablespoons

For Frying:

Ingredient	Quantity
Oil for frying	As needed

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sweet rice flour, sugar, sea salt, and yeast.
2. Add the warm water and neutral oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and sunflower seeds.
2. Set aside while the dough rises.

3. Shape the Dough

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air bubbles.
2. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy if desired.
3. Flatten each piece into a small circle and spoon about 1 tablespoon of the filling into the center.
4. Pinch the edges together to seal the filling inside. Gently shape into a ball.

4. Fry the Hotteok

1. Heat a shallow layer of oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
2. Place a dough ball in the pan and flatten it with a spatula.
3. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Tilt the pan slightly to pool the oil and fry the edges for extra crispiness.
5. Repeat with the remaining dough balls.

5. Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the hotteok cool slightly before serving. The sugar filling will be very hot.
2. Enjoy fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Tips for Making the Best Hotteok

• Use Sweet Rice Flour: It gives the dough a chewy, mochi-like texture that’s essential for authentic hotteok.
• Shallow Fry for Crispiness: A shallow layer of oil works best for even cooking and a crispy exterior.
• Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the dough to tear.
• Tilt the Pan: Tilting the pan to pool the oil helps fry the edges and ensures a perfectly crispy finish.
• Serve Fresh: Hotteok is best enjoyed right after frying. Over time, the dough absorbs the filling and loses its crisp texture.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Hotteok
Calories	220
Protein	4g
Fat	8g
Carbohydrates	32g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	120mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

• With Tea: Pair hotteok with green tea or black tea for a comforting snack.
• As a Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
• Street Food Style: Wrap them in parchment paper and enjoy them on the go.

FAQs About Authentic Korean Hotteok

1. Can I make hotteok without sweet rice flour?
Yes, you can use 2 cups of all-purpose flour, but the texture will be less chewy.

2. How do I store leftover hotteok?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. Reheat in a frying pan to restore crispiness.

3. Can I freeze hotteok dough?
Yes! Freeze the dough balls with filling inside. Thaw and fry when ready to eat.

4. What other fillings can I use?
Try red bean paste, Nutella, or chopped nuts for variety.

5. Is sweet rice flour the same as glutinous rice flour?
Yes, they are the same. Look for packaging labeled “Mochiko” in the Asian aisle or online.

6. Can I bake hotteok instead of frying?
Frying gives the best texture, but you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes as an alternative.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try Authentic Korean Hotteok

Hotteok is more than just a pancake; it’s a delightful blend of textures and flavors that brings the warmth of Korean street food to your kitchen. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, this recipe is perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Ready to make your own hotteok? Gather your ingredients, heat your pan, and enjoy this sweet and chewy treat today!

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