Delicious and Authentic Korean Hotteok Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup warm water
1 teaspoon dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
1/2 cup chopped peanuts
Extra oil for cooking

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, yeast, salt, and vegetable oil together.
Add the flour to the mixture and mix well until it forms a dough.
Cover the bowl with a cloth and let it rise for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
Prepare the filling by mixing the brown sugar, cinnamon powder, and chopped peanuts together in a separate bowl.
Once the dough has risen, take a piece and flatten it with your hands. Add a spoonful of the filling in the center and seal it by gathering the edges towards the center.
Heat a pan with some oil on medium heat. Cook the filled dough on each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
Press the dough with a spatula to flatten it while it is cooking.
Once cooked, place the hotteok on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. Serve warm.

Tools for making

Large bowl - Used for mixing the dough and allowing it to rise.
Cloth - Used to cover the bowl while the dough is rising.
Separate bowl - Used to mix the filling ingredients together.
Pan - Used for cooking the hotteok.
Spatula - Used to press and flip the hotteok while it is cooking.
Paper towel - Used to drain excess oil from the hotteok after cooking.

Recipe variations

Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough for a touch of sweetness.
Replace the brown sugar with a different sweetener like coconut sugar or stevia.
Try different fillings such as Nutella, chocolate chips, or cream cheese.
Add sliced bananas or diced apples to the filling for a fruity twist.
For a savory version, skip the sugar and cinnamon and fill the dough with cooked vegetables, cheese, or even minced meat.
Experiment with different spices in the filling like cardamom, nutmeg, or ginger.
Instead of peanuts, use other nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pistachios.
Make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free flour blend.
For a vegan option, replace the milk with a plant-based milk and use a vegan substitute for the butter in the filling.

Recipe overview

Get ready to indulge in a popular Korean street food favorite, Hotteok! This sweet pancake is known for its rich, gooey filling made from brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts. Our recipe will guide you through a simple, step-by-step process to create the perfect Hotteok from scratch. Firstly, you'll prepare a simple yeast dough, which will become delightfully soft and chewy as it cooks. While the dough is rising, you'll mix up the sweet, aromatic filling. Then, it's all about assembling and cooking your Hotteok to golden-brown perfection. This recipe is not overly complicated, but it does require some patience and attention to detail. The end result, however, is truly rewarding - warm, sweet pancakes with a molten center that's a joy to bite into. Enjoy these as a dessert, a snack, or even a sweet breakfast treat. Happy cooking!

Common questions

Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast? Yes, you can use instant yeast as a substitute for dry yeast. However, the measurements may vary, so make sure to follow the instructions on the yeast packaging for the correct amount.
Can I use a different type of flour? While all-purpose flour is commonly used for hotteok, you can experiment with different types of flour like whole wheat flour or bread flour. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary slightly.
Can I use a different type of filling? Yes, you can customize the filling to your liking. Some popular alternatives include Nutella, sweet red bean paste, or even cheese.
Do I have to use peanuts? No, if you have allergies or simply don't enjoy peanuts, you can omit them from the filling or replace them with your preferred nuts like almonds or walnuts.
Can I make the dough in advance? Yes, you can make the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the filling and cooking.
Can I freeze the cooked hotteok? Yes, you can freeze the cooked hotteok. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw them and warm them in a pan or microwave.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for mixing the dough and other ingredients.
Cloth - A cloth to cover the bowl and let the dough rise.
Spatula - A spatula for pressing and flipping the hotteok while cooking.
Pan - A pan for cooking the hotteok.
Paper Towel - Paper towels for draining excess oil from the cooked hotteok.

Origin stories

Hotteok, a South Korean street food snack, first made its appearance in the late 19th century when merchants from China introduced it to the Korean peninsula. Traditionally a winter snack, its sweet syrup filling and soft, chewy texture quickly made it a favorite among Koreans. Interestingly, while the original version of hotteok is sweet, over the years, many vendors started adding various ingredients such as green tea, fruits, and even vegetables, transforming this simple snack into a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. One can never underestimate the humble hotteok's ability to warm one's body and soul on a chilly winter day in Korea.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.