Korean Cheese Hotteok: 7 Irresistible Sweet Cheesy Delights

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Korean Cheese Hotteok is a delightful snack featuring a crispy, chewy, and fluffy potato pancake stuffed with melted mozzarella cheese. This easy recipe highlights an irresistible cheese pull and a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it an ideal treat for snack time or casual gatherings. The combination of warm, gooey cheese surrounded by a slightly sweet dough creates a mouthwatering experience that you won’t want to miss.

Why You’ll Love This Korean Cheese Hotteok

This Korean Cheese Hotteok recipe is not just about taste; it’s also about the experience. Here are some reasons to fall in love with it:

Perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite.
Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
Can be enjoyed any time of the day, making it a versatile snack.
Ideal for sharing with friends and family during gatherings.
Authentic taste of Korean street food.
Fun to make and customize with different fillings.

This dish is also vegetarian-friendly and fits into the category of delicious Korean cuisine.

Ingredients for Korean Cheese Hotteok

Gather these items:

1 medium-sized potato (300g)
2-3 tbsp rice flour (Thai rice flour or Mochiko sweet rice flour recommended)
1 tbsp sugar
¼ tsp salt
Shredded mozzarella cheese (enough to fill each hotteok)
1-2 tbsp oil for cooking

How to Make Korean Cheese Hotteok Step-by-Step

Step 1: Peel the potato and chop it into large chunks. Steam the potato chunks for 10-15 minutes until they are soft and tender.
Step 2: Transfer the steamed potatoes to a bowl. Add rice flour, sugar, and salt. Use a fork to mash the potatoes thoroughly while mixing all ingredients until you get a smooth, pliable dough.
Step 3: Scoop out the dough with a spoon into your palm. Roll it into a ball, then gently press down with your thumb to flatten it and create a small pocket.
Step 4: Place shredded mozzarella cheese in the center of the flattened dough. Carefully wrap the dough around the cheese and pinch the seams tightly to seal it completely.
Step 5: Roll the cheese-filled dough ball gently once again and then flatten it slightly to form a pancake shape.
Step 6: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Place the shaped hotteok in the pan, then reduce heat to medium-low and pan-fry each side for about 5-6 minutes or until both sides turn golden brown and crispy with melted cheese inside.
Step 7: Remove the hotteok from the pan and let it cool slightly before serving to avoid burns from the hot melted cheese. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy snack warm for the best experience.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Korean Cheese Hotteok

Keep these in mind:

Best served warm for optimal cheese pull.
Adjust sugar based on desired sweetness.
Experiment with different fillings for variation.

Best Ways to Serve Korean Cheese Hotteok

Here are some ideas to serve:

Serve with a side of sweetened condensed milk for dipping.
Pair with fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas for a balanced snack.

How to Store and Reheat Korean Cheese Hotteok

To store, place the hotteok in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pan-fry on low heat for a few minutes until warm and crispy. This method helps retain the delicious cheese pull and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Korean Cheese Hotteok

What is cheese hotteok?

Cheese hotteok is a popular Korean street food that combines a sweet dough with melted cheese, creating a unique and delightful snack. The blend of sweet and savory is truly irresistible.

Can I make Korean cheese hotteok ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge. Just assemble and cook the hotteok when you’re ready to enjoy them!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Korean cheese hotteok?

Ensure the dough is well-mixed and not too sticky, and seal the hotteok tightly to prevent cheese from leaking during cooking. Practice makes perfect!

Variations of Korean Cheese Hotteok You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations:

Add chocolate or Nutella for a sweet twist.
Include vegetables for a savory version.
Experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavors.