Let Me Introduce You to Must-Try Korean Winter Street Foods.

Summary

In this vlog, Didi takes viewers on a delicious journey through Korea's winter street foods. From heartwarming fish cake skewers (*eomuk*) and crispy twisted doughnuts (*kkwabaegi*) to popular treats like *bungeoppang* (fish-shaped bread) and sweet drinks like *yujacha* (citron tea), Didi highlights the comforting, flavorful experiences of Korea’s cold season snacks. She also explores Gwangjang Market, sampling a variety of iconic dishes including *tteokbokki* (spicy rice cakes), *sundae* (blood sausage), and even a honey-threaded dessert called *kkultarae*. This video showcases the rich, diverse tastes that define winter in Korea.

Takeaways

• 😀 *Eomuk* (fish cake skewers) is a beloved Korean winter street food, often enjoyed with fish cake broth for warmth and comfort.
• 😀 *Kkwabaegi* (twisted doughnuts) is a must-try snack in Korea, best enjoyed with sugar to enhance its flavor.
• 😀 *Bungeoppang* (fish-shaped bread) is a popular treat in Korea, with various fillings like red bean and custard.
• 😀 *Hotteok* (sweet pancakes) are a warm winter snack filled with cinnamon syrup, offering a cozy and delicious experience.
• 😀 *Gyeranbbang* (egg bread) features a whole egg inside a fluffy bread crust, perfect for a hearty snack.
• 😀 *Yujacha* (citron tea) is a fragrant and vitamin-packed winter drink made from citron fruit, ideal for warming up.
• 😀 *Jjinppang* (steamed buns) come in different flavors, such as red bean and meat, and are a filling, chewy snack.
• 😀 Gwangjang Market is a popular destination to try multiple Korean winter street foods in one place, offering everything from *tteokbokki* (spicy rice cakes) to *kkwabaegi*.
• 😀 Convenience store roasted sweet potatoes are a rare but delightful treat, offering a chewy and sweet winter snack.
• 😀 Korean street food vendors often accept mobile payments, but cash is typically the easiest and quickest payment method.

Q & A

What is 'eomuk' and why is it a popular winter street food in Korea?

'Eomuk' is a Korean fish cake skewer made by mixing ground fish with flour. It’s a popular winter street food because it's warm, comforting, and helps people forget the cold. Many people have fond memories of eating it at street stalls during the winter months.

What is the best way to enjoy 'eomuk' according to the script?

The best way to enjoy 'eomuk' is to eat it with its broth, which is served alongside the skewers. The broth adds to the warmth and makes the experience complete.

What is 'kkwabaegi', and what makes it special?

'Kkwabaegi' is a Korean twisted doughnut, fried to a crispy exterior with a chewy inside. It’s special because of its unique twisted shape and the fact that it is often served with sugar, enhancing its flavor.

What is 'sikhye' and why is it recommended?

'Sikhye' is a traditional Korean sweet beverage made with fermented rice. It has a nutty taste and rice grains floating in it. It’s recommended for its refreshing and sweet flavor, making it a great pairing with winter street foods.

What is 'bungeoppang' and why is it so popular in Korea?

'Bungeoppang' is a fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet fillings like red bean or custard. It’s popular because it’s both affordable and delicious, especially enjoyed in winter. There is even a map app dedicated to locating 'bungeoppang' stalls.

How do people keep 'bungeoppang' warm after purchasing it?

People keep 'bungeoppang' warm by holding it close to their chest while walking back home. This helps retain the warmth of the freshly fried pastries.

What are roasted sweet potatoes, and why are they considered a classic Korean winter snack?

Roasted sweet potatoes are a popular winter snack in Korea, especially those sold in convenience stores. They are known for their chewy texture and sweet flavor, making them a comforting treat during the cold season.

What is 'hotteok', and what are its variations?

'Hotteok' is a type of Korean pancake filled with syrup or sugar and cinnamon. There are variations like 'seed hotteok' that are filled with nuts and seeds. The syrupy 'hotteok' is especially popular in winter.

What makes 'gyeranbbang' (egg bread) a satisfying snack?

'Gyeranbbang' is a bread that contains a whole egg inside, giving it a unique combination of flavors. The outside of the bread is pancake-like, making it a filling and satisfying snack, particularly in the cold weather.

What is 'yujacha', and how is it beneficial?

'Yujacha' is a sweet Korean tea made from yuja, a fruit similar to lemons or tangerines. It’s rich in Vitamin C, warming, and aromatic, making it an ideal drink for winter to boost the immune system and refresh the senses.

What types of snacks can you find in Gwangjang Market?

Gwangjang Market offers a wide variety of iconic Korean street foods, including 'tteokbokki' (spicy rice cakes), 'sundae' (blood sausage), 'kkwabaegi' (twisted doughnuts), and 'jjinppang' (steamed buns). It’s a great place to experience Korean winter snacks in one location.

What is 'kkultarae', and how is it made?

'Kkultarae' is a traditional Korean dessert made from honey, which is stretched into 16,384 thin strands. These honey threads are then filled with nuts and served as a sweet, rich treat. It is often eaten with tea or coffee for a delightful dessert experience.

What is the significance of the plastic curtain at Gwangjang Market?

The plastic curtain at the entrance of Gwangjang Market is used to keep the market warm, especially during the cold winter months. It’s a common feature of traditional markets in Korea.