Love sesame? You must try these South Korean snacks
What's the story
Sesame seeds are an integral part of South Korean cuisine, adding a unique flavor and texture to many dishes. These tiny seeds are not just nutritious but also add a distinct nutty taste that elevates the simplest of recipes. From sweet treats to savory snacks, sesame is everywhere in Korean food culture. Here are some popular sesame-infused snacks that highlight its versatility and appeal.
#1
Sesame rice cakes
Sesame rice cakes, or songpyeon, are traditional Korean snacks made from glutinous rice flour and filled with sweetened red bean paste. These moon-shaped cakes are steamed over a bed of pine needles, which add a subtle fragrance. The outer layer is often coated with crushed sesame seeds, giving them a delightful crunch. Songpyeon is commonly prepared during the Chuseok festival and enjoyed throughout the year.
#2
Sesame oil popcorn
Sesame oil popcorn is a unique twist on the classic snack. By drizzling some sesame oil over freshly popped corn, you get an aromatic treat with a nutty flavor. The addition of sesame seeds can further enhance the taste and texture. This snack is easy to prepare at home and makes for an interesting alternative to regular popcorn varieties.
#3
Sesame seed candy (Yakgwa)
Yakgwa is a traditional Korean honey cookie that has sesame seeds in it. The dough is prepared with flour, honey, sesame oil, and ginger before being shaped into small rounds and fried until golden brown. These cookies are chewy with a hint of sweetness from honey and nuttiness from sesame seeds.
#4
Sesame leaf chips
Sesame leaf chips are made by frying or baking fresh perilla leaves brushed with oil and sprinkled with salt or spices of choice. These chips have an earthy flavor profile complemented by subtle hints of nuttiness from the underlying ingredient—sesame seeds themselves. They make for an excellent low-calorie snack option compared to regular potato chips.