Get ready to indulge in the bold flavors and vibrant energy of Korea’s bustling streets! From spicy tteokbokki to crispy hotteok, savory twigim to sweet bungeoppang, we’ve gathered 20 mouthwatering Korean street food recipes for you to try at home. These iconic dishes have captured the hearts (and taste buds) of people around the world, and now it’s your turn to experience the magic.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Korea’s most beloved street foods, with step-by-step instructions and expert tips to help you recreate these mouthwatering masterpieces. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for a taste of adventure, our collection of authentic Korean recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Stay tuned for the full list of 20 delicious Korean street food recipes!
Spicy Korean Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki, a popular Korean street food, is a spicy and savory rice cake dish that’s easy to make and fun to eat. This recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors with chewy rice cakes.
Ingredients:
– 200g tteok (Korean rice cakes)
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the tteok according to package instructions.
2. In a large pan, combine gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and water. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Add cooked tteok and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Season with sesame oil and black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Korean Hotteok
Hotteok, a popular Korean street food, is a delicious and crispy pancake-like dessert filled with sweet fillings. This recipe brings the authentic flavors of Korea to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Filling ingredients (e.g., sweetened red bean paste, honey, sugar, cinnamon)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 portions, depending on desired hotteok size.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Place your preferred filling in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape, and press edges to seal.
7. Heat about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
8. Fry hotteok until crispy and golden brown, flipping halfway through. Cooking time: approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Savory Korean Twigim
Twigim () is a popular Korean snack that’s crispy on the outside and savory on the inside. This recipe makes a delicious and addictive twist on traditional twigim by adding an extra layer of flavor with soy sauce and sesame oil.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add in vegetable oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into small pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
5. Flatten each ball into a disk shape using a rolling pin or your hands.
6. Brush the tops with soy sauce, sesame oil, and beaten egg (for glazing).
7. Deep-fry the twigim in hot oil (350°F) for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Korean Bungeoppang
Sweet Korean Bungeoppang Recipe
Bungeoppang is a popular street food in Korea, known for its sweet and crispy exterior giving way to a soft and chewy interior. This recipe will guide you through making this tasty treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup water
– Flavorings (e.g., vanilla, sesame seeds)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and sugar.
2. Gradually add in vegetable oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).
5. Flatten each ball slightly to form a disk shape.
6. Cook the bungeoppang in hot oil (350°F/175°C) for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil and let cool on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Enjoy your crispy and chewy Sweet Korean Bungeoppang!
Cheesy Korean Corn Dog
Experience the unique fusion of American and Korean flavors with this indulgent treat! This Cheesy Korean Corn Dog recipe combines crispy corn dogs with spicy Gochujang cheese for a snack that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 corn dogs (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup Gochujang sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang sauce, soy sauce, and honey until smooth.
3. Dip each corn dog into the cheese mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated corn dogs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each corn dog.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Korean Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this sweet and savory twist on the classic comfort food, featuring the bold flavors of Korea.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread (or Korean-style milk bread)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Spread the garlic butter on the unbuttered side of one bread slice.
4. Mix soy sauce and Gochujang; spread evenly on top of the garlic butter.
5. Layer cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Place the other bread slice, buttered side up, on top.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Korean-style Fried Chicken
Get ready to spice up your snack game with this crispy and flavorful Korean-style fried chicken! This recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors to create an addictive snack that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, chili flakes, sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
2. Pour in buttermilk and mix until the batter forms.
3. Dip chicken pieces into the batter, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Soft and Fluffy Korean Egg Bread
This traditional Korean bread, also known as “Garaetteok,” is a sweet and savory treat that’s perfect for breakfast or snack time. With its soft and fluffy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add flour and salt to the mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Beat in eggs and melted butter until well combined.
4. Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into desired form.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean Japchae with Glass Noodles
Japchae is a classic Korean dish made with sweet potato glass noodles and stir-fried vegetables. This recipe is a simple and flavorful take on the traditional dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 200g sweet potato glass noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the glass noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked noodles, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add spinach leaves; stir-fry until wilted.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Korean Fish Cake Skewers
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with these addictive fish cake skewers, marinated in a spicy gochujang sauce and grilled to perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of fish cakes (usually found in Asian markets)
– 1/2 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 20 bamboo skewers
– Vegetable oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
3. Cut fish cakes into bite-sized pieces and thread onto skewers.
4. Brush both sides of the fish cake with sesame oil.
5. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
6. Serve immediately, drizzled with remaining marinade sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Korean-style Potato Tornado
Experience the crispy, cheesy delight of Korea’s popular street food, the Potato Tornado! This addictive snack is perfect for snacking on-the-go or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Cheese (Korean-style mozzarella or cheddar work well)
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and/or soy sauce for garnish
Instructions:
1. Grate the potatoes using a box grater or food processor.
2. In a bowl, combine the grated potatoes, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well to remove excess moisture.
3. Divide the potato mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add the potato disks (in batches if necessary) and fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove the fried potatoes from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with cheese and any desired garnishes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Crunchy Korean Honey Butter Chips
Get ready to satisfy your snacking cravings with these addictive Sweet and Crunchy Korean Honey Butter Chips! A perfect blend of crunchy, sweet, and savory, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice potatoes into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
3. In a bowl, mix together chili flakes, butter, honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
4. Add potato slices to the bowl and toss until coated with the honey-butter mixture.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange potato chips in a single layer.
6. Sprinkle salt to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Kimchi Pancake
A twist on traditional Korean-style kimchi, this pancake recipe combines the spicy kick of fermented vegetables with a crispy, savory treat. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, it’s sure to delight your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup kimchi (homemade or store-bought), chopped
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
2. Add chopped kimchi, water, and egg to the flour mixture. Mix until well combined.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat with 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
4. Pour the batter into the pan, spreading it evenly to form a pancake shape.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce (e.g., soy sauce, vinegar, or gochujang).
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per pancake
Korean-style Beef Bulgogi Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Korean cuisine in a taco shell with this unique recipe. Thinly sliced beef is marinated in a sweet and savory bulgogi sauce, then grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced beef (such as ribeye or sirloin)
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime wedges, cilantro, and kimchi slaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with sliced beef, cilantro, and kimchi slaw (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Korean-style Fried Squid
A popular street food in Korea, this spicy and savory fried squid is a must-try! This simple recipe yields crispy and flavorful results with just the right amount of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and cut squid rings
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional: chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, and Korean chili flakes.
2. Dip each squid ring into the flour mixture, then the beaten egg, and finally coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Fry squid rings for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (depending on the number of servings)
Soft and Chewy Korean Injeolmi
Injeolmi, a traditional Korean rice cake, is a popular snack or dessert that’s soft, chewy, and slightly sweet. This recipe makes a deliciously authentic version at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of short-grain white rice (Korean-style rice)
– 1/4 cup of water
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– Optional: sugar or honey for sweetening
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and cook the rice with 1 cup of fresh water and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until the mixture is mushy and sticky.
3. Let the mixture cool down to room temperature.
4. Knead the mixture until it forms a smooth, pliable dough.
5. Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a marble).
6. Flatten each ball slightly with your fingers or a rolling pin.
7. Pan-fry the cakes in sesame oil over medium heat until they’re golden brown and crispy on one side.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature, with sugar or honey if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including soaking time)
Korean-style Sweet Pancake with Nuts
This Korean-inspired sweet pancake, also known as “hotteok”, is a popular street food in Korea. Fluffy and crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, these pancakes are filled with sweet red bean paste and crunchy nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup sweet red bean paste (or substitute with jam or Nutella)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or other nuts of your choice
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add in water to form a thick batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan with a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat.
4. Pour about 1/4 cup of the batter into the pan and spread evenly.
5. Place 1-2 tablespoons of sweet red bean paste and chopped nuts on one half of the pancake.
6. Fold the other half of the pancake to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown, then flip and cook for another minute.
8. Repeat with remaining batter and filling.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes per batch, depending on the number of pancakes.
Korean-style Steamed Buns with Pork Belly
These soft, fluffy buns are filled with tender pork belly and a sweet and savory sauce, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons instant yeast
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound pork belly, braised and diced
+ 2 tablespoons soy sauce
+ 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
+ 2 tablespoons brown sugar
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Sesame seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly.
4. Place a spoonful of pork belly filling in the center of each bun. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape, and seal the edges.
5. Steam the buns for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Brush with soy sauce mixture (soy sauce, Gochujang, brown sugar, and garlic). Top with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Korean-style Grilled Scallops
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Korea with this simple yet impressive recipe for grilled scallops. A perfect appetizer or main course, these succulent morsels are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and garlic.
3. Brush both sides of the scallops with the marinade.
4. Place scallops on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Korean-style Sweet Potato Sticks
Get ready to enjoy a sweet and crispy snack with this simple recipe! These Korean-style sweet potato sticks, also known as “Goguma” in Korean, are a popular street food that pairs perfectly with a cold glass of makgeolli (traditional Korean rice wine).
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into long, thin sticks.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the cornstarch, water, sugar, and salt to create a batter.
3. Dip each sweet potato stick into the batter, coating it evenly.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the battered sweet potato sticks for 3-4 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
6. Drain the sticks on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to explore the vibrant flavors of Korean street food with these 20 authentic recipes! From spicy Tteokbokki and crispy Hotteok to savory Twigim and sweet Bungeoppang, this collection has it all. Indulge in cheesy Corn Dogs, garlic butter Grilled Cheese, and crunchy Honey Butter Chips. Savor the flavors of Japchae with glass noodles, Fish Cake Skewers, and Potato Tornado. And don’t forget the Korean-style versions of tacos, fried chicken, and more! Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for new culinary adventures, this article has something for everyone.
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