There’s something incredibly delightful about biting into a warm Korean Cheese Hotteok. Trust me when I say it’s like a cozy hug for your tastebuds! I first discovered this delightful treat during a chilly evening at a street food market in Seoul, where the aroma of freshly cooked dough wafted through the air, enticing everyone around. The moment I took my first bite, the gooey, melted mozzarella cheese mixed with the soft, warm exterior was pure magic. Since then, I’ve been on a quest to recreate that experience at home, and let me tell you, it’s been a delicious journey!
These hotteok are not just your average sweet pancakes; they’re stuffed with cheese goodness that melts in your mouth. Warm, cheesy, and slightly crispy on the outside, they make for a perfect snack or even a fun appetizer when you have friends over. Plus, with just a handful of simple ingredients, you can impress your guests (or yourself) in no time. Now, let’s get ready to create some Korean Cheese Hotteok!
What’s in Korean Cheese Hotteok?
– All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of our dough. I like using unbleached flour because it gives a slightly nuttier flavor.
– Sugar: Just a touch to balance the flavors and help the dough rise. You can use white or brown sugar, depending on what you have on hand!
– Salt: Essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the hotteok.
– Instant Yeast: This helps our dough rise beautifully. Instant yeast is great because it doesn’t need to be activated first – so less hassle!
– Warm Water: The secret ingredient to getting that dough just right! Make sure it’s warm, but not too hot, or you’ll kill the yeast.
– Vegetable Oil: This keeps our dough moist and tender. Feel free to swap this out for melted butter for added flavor.
– Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The star of the show! I recommend using a good-quality mozzarella for that stretchy, melty goodness.
– Chopped Green Onions (optional): These add a nice fresh kick, but if you’re not a fan, feel free to leave them out!
– Butter or Oil for Frying: A splash of butter or oil ensures we get that perfect crispy exterior. I love the flavor that butter adds!
Is Korean Cheese Hotteok Good for You?
Let’s be honest: these delicious bites are a treat! But they do have some benefits. The mozzarella cheese provides a good dose of calcium and protein, which is always a plus. Plus, the green onions add some freshness and nutrients. However, they are still fried, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation or on special occasions. Pair them with a side salad or some steamed veggies if you’re looking to balance things out!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp instant yeast
– 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
– Butter or oil for frying
*Serves: 8 hotteok*
How to Make Korean Cheese Hotteok?
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix well.
2. Gradually add the warm water and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
5. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and let them rest for 10 minutes.
6. Flatten each dough ball into a small disc (about 4 inches in diameter). Place a generous tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese (and green onions, if using) in the center of each disc.
7. Fold the edges of the disc over the cheese to seal it inside and gently roll it into a ball again.
8. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil. Once hot, place the filled dough balls seam-side down in the skillet.
9. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy, then gently flip them over.
10. Press the filled dough discs down slightly with a spatula to flatten them. Cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is melted inside.
11. Remove the hotteok from the skillet and serve immediately, ideally while the cheese is still gooey. Enjoy your Korean Cheese Hotteok!
Hotteok Hacks and Tips!
– For an extra treat, you could mix in some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick!
– If you want to switch things up, try different types of cheese, like cheddar or pepper jack.
– These are best enjoyed immediately while the cheese is still melty, but if you’re making them ahead of time, you can warm them in the oven before serving.
– Serve with a side of soy sauce mixed with a dash of vinegar for dipping if you want to kick it up a notch!
I absolutely can’t wait for you to try making these Korean Cheese Hotteok at home! They’re perfect for sharing with friends or just indulging yourself on a cozy night in. Don’t forget to tell me how yours turn out; I’d love to hear your cheesy, delicious stories!
