Winter Delights: Exploring Korean Street Food Favorites
When winter rolls around in Korea, the streets transform into a cozy haven of sizzling grills, steaming pots, and sweet, aromatic snacks. Among the many treasures of Korean street food, a few iconic treats stand out as perfect companions for the chilly weather. In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the winter wonders of Bungeoppang, Hotteok, Hoppang, Gyeranppang, and Ddak Kkochi, while showcasing why these seasonal favorites are a must-try for anyone visiting Korea. These treats will be more delightful to eat after visiting Winter events in Seoul.
The Comforting Charm of Winter Street Food in Korea
Winter in Korea is more than just icy winds and snowy landscapes; it’s a season that brings people together around steaming street food carts and bustling night markets. Korean street food thrives in winter, offering a warm escape from the cold with hearty flavors, soft textures, and a touch of nostalgia. The following treats are particularly cherished during this season for their ability to provide comfort and warmth.
1. Bungeoppang (붕어빵): The Quintessential Winter Snack
What Is It?
Bungeoppang, or “fish bread,” is a delightful pastry shaped like a fish but filled with sweet red bean paste. Don’t be fooled by the name—this snack has nothing to do with seafood. Instead, it’s a sweet and crispy winter staple.
Why It’s Perfect for the season:
Bungeoppang’s warm and sugary filling is an ideal way to fend off the cold. Vendors often serve these treats piping hot, making them a great snack to enjoy while exploring outdoor markets.
How It’s Made:
The batter is poured into fish-shaped molds, filled with red bean paste, and cooked until golden brown. The result is a crunchy exterior that encases a soft, sweet center.
Variations to Try:
Traditional red bean paste remains the classic choice, but modern variations include custard, chocolate, and even savory fillings like mozzarella cheese. Some stalls even create mini versions for bite-sized indulgence.
Pro Tip:
Pair Bungeoppang with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a truly heartwarming seasonal snack.
2. Hotteok (호떡): Sweet Pancakes with a Winter Twist
What Is It?
Hotteok is a beloved seasonal treat made from dough stuffed with a sugary mix of brown sugar, cinnamon, and crushed nuts, then fried until golden brown.
All time Classic:
This warm, gooey pancake is a staple of Korean winters, offering both sweetness and heat. The caramelized sugar filling oozes out with every bite, making it an irresistible cold-weather snack.
How It’s Made:
The dough, made from flour and yeast, is allowed to rise before being filled and flattened on a griddle. As the sugar melts, it creates a rich and nutty filling that contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior.
Where to Find It:
Hotteok stalls pop up across Korea in winter, particularly in markets like Namdaemun and Insadong.
Savory Variations:
While the sweet version is the most popular, savory Hotteok filled with japchae (stir-fried glass noodles) or vegetables is a growing trend among street food enthusiasts.
3. Hoppang (호빵): The Winter Hand Warmer
What Is It?
Hoppang, or steamed buns, is a convenient cold-weather snack that doubles as a hand warmer. These buns are soft, fluffy, and filled with various ingredients, ranging from sweet red bean paste to savory pork or vegetables.
Why It’s a Favorite:
Hoppang is not only delicious but also practical. On cold winter days, holding a warm Hoppang can be as comforting as eating it.
How It’s Made:
Each bun is steamed in large cylindrical containers that keep them warm and ready to serve. The steaming process ensures the bun remains soft and moist while intensifying the flavors of the filling.
Modern Variations:
Today, Hoppang comes in creative varieties like pizza-flavored, curry-filled, or even sweet potato-stuffed buns. These unique twists make it a fun snack for all tastes.
Pro Tip:
Look for convenience stores selling pre-packaged Hoppang if you’re traveling between street food markets.
4. Gyeranppang (계란빵): A Perfect Winter Morning Bite
What Is It?
Gyeranppang, or egg bread, is a small loaf baked with a whole egg nestled on top. This filling snack is popular among those looking for a quick breakfast or a hearty winter treat.
What Makes It Special in Winter:
The warmth of the freshly baked bread and the protein-rich egg make Gyeranppang a satisfying snack during cold weather. Its rich, buttery aroma is especially enticing on a frosty morning.
How It’s Made:
Vendors pour batter into rectangular molds, crack a whole egg over the top, and bake it until the bread rises and the egg sets. Some add cheese, ham, or parsley for extra flavor.
Where to Try It:
You’ll find Gyeranppang in night markets and at street food carts, especially in areas like Dongdaemun and Myeongdong.
5. Ddak Kkochi (닭꼬치): Grilled Chicken for Winter Nights
What Is It?
Ddak Kkochi are skewered chunks of marinated chicken grilled to smoky perfection. This savory street food is served with various sauces, from sweet soy to spicy gochujang.
Why It’s Great for Winter:
The combination of tender, juicy chicken and a warming kick of spice makes Ddak Kkochi a go-to snack for winter evenings. The smoky aroma and sizzling skewers are sure to draw you in.
How It’s Made:
Chicken pieces are marinated in flavorful sauces, skewered, and grilled over open flames. Vendors often baste the skewers with additional sauce while grilling, enhancing the flavor.
Tips for Enjoying:
Ask for a mix of spicy and sweet sauces to experience the best of both worlds. Pair it with a cup of steaming fish cake soup (eomukguk) for a hearty winter meal.
Exploring Korean Street Food in Winter Markets
For the best winter street food experience, visit Korea’s iconic markets:
- Myeongdong Night Market (Seoul): Famous for a wide array of street foods, including Hotteok and Ddak Kkochi.
- Gwangjang Market (Seoul): Offers a mix of traditional and modern snacks, perfect for trying Gyeranppang and Bungeoppang.
- Busan’s BIFF Square: A street food paradise, particularly for Hotteok and skewers.
Tips for Enjoying Winter Street Food
- Go in the Evening: Winter street food is best enjoyed in the late afternoon or evening when markets come alive.
- Bring Cash: Most vendors operate on a cash-only basis. Wire transfer might available by stores.
- Eat Fresh: Many street foods are best consumed hot, right off the grill or out of the steamer.
Winter in Korea isn’t complete without a culinary adventure through its street food scene. From the crispy sweetness of Bungeoppang to the savory, smoky delight of Ddak Kkochi, these treats offer more than just sustenance—they provide a sensory experience that warms both body and soul. Make sure to indulge in these delicious bites during your next winter visit to Korea. If you are looking for more Korean delights that are popular in winter click here.
