Korean Hotteok: A Beloved Street Snack

Hotteok, a popular Korean street food, is widely cherished by both tourists and locals for its delightful taste, affordability, and comforting warmth.

Hotteok, also known as Korean pancakes, can be easily purchased from street vendors for as little as 1,000 won. Although it is often recommended to enjoy hotteok during the fall and winter seasons, it is a treat enjoyed year-round. The pancake features a crispy, fragrant exterior with a sweet, savory filling that is best enjoyed while hot.

Originally from China, hotteok was introduced to Korea in the 19th century. While it may not have the international fame of kimchi, gimbap, or bulgogi, it is a favorite among international visitors and locals alike.

The pancake is round, thin, and fried until golden brown. Its primary ingredients include flour, honey, milk, sugar, and cinnamon. Hotteok comes in various versions; in addition to the popular sweet brown sugar filling, there are options with red bean paste, cheese, vegetables, or japchae (stir-fried glass noodles). In Busan, a renowned variation called ssiat hotteok features a filling of brown sugar and a mix of nuts like pine nuts, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds, offering a rich, nutty sweetness.

In Seoul, visitors can find hotteok at street stalls and night markets such as Hongdae, Myeong-dong, and the traditional GwangJang Market. It is commonly enjoyed as a snack or dessert, making it a must-try treat for anyone exploring Korean cuisine.