Hotteok: A Beloved Street Food for Tourists in South Korea
When it comes to South Korean street food, hotteok—a traditional and irresistibly delicious treat—stands out as a must-try for every visitor. With the key descriptors “delicious, affordable, and piping hot,” hotteok has won the hearts of millions of tourists from around the world.
Hotteok is easily found at street stalls for a very reasonable price, starting at just 1,000 won (approximately 0.75 USD). This is one of the snacks that visitors are often advised to try during the fall and winter seasons, when the cold weather makes the warm, freshly-cooked hotteok especially appealing. However, its popularity is not limited to any particular season; tourists can enjoy hotteok year-round, no matter the time of year. The crispy exterior, fragrant aroma, and sweet, nutty filling create an unforgettable taste, especially when the pancake is still warm.
Hotteok originated from China and was introduced to Korea in the 19th century. Although it is not as globally renowned as kimchi, gimbap, or bulgogi, hotteok holds a special place in the hearts of both Koreans and international visitors. Its simplicity and unique flavor have made it a beloved and familiar treat.
Hotteok is typically round and thin, fried to a golden brown in hot oil or on a griddle. The main ingredients for this snack include flour, honey, milk, sugar, and cinnamon. Inside, the sweet filling is made from melted brown sugar, creating a perfect balance between the crispy crust and the soft, sweet interior. In addition to the traditional sugar filling, hotteok comes in various other flavors, such as red bean paste, cheese, vegetables, and even japchae (stir-fried glass noodles). One of the most famous variations is ssiat hotteok from Busan, filled with black sugar and an assortment of seeds like pine nuts, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds, offering a rich, nutty taste combined with the sweetness of the sugar.
In Seoul, hotteok is one of the most popular street foods. Visitors can easily find this treat at street stalls or night markets such as the Hongdae Night Market, Myeong-dong Night Market, or the historic Gwangjang Market. Locals and tourists alike often enjoy hotteok as a snack or dessert while exploring the bustling and vibrant streets of Seoul.
Hotteok is not just a snack; it is a part of South Korea’s street food culture, an experience that is essential for anyone visiting the country. The combination of sweet flavors, crispy texture, and the warm, comforting feeling of holding a freshly-made hotteok makes it an unforgettable street food that leaves a lasting impression on every visitor.
