Imagine biting into a delicate, steamed rice cake that holds a sweet secret inside - that's the enchanting world of Songpyeon! These traditional Korean half-moon shaped delicacies are more than just a dessert; they're a celebration of culture, family, and culinary artistry. Packed with a luscious red bean paste and sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds, Songpyeon is not just a recipe, it's an experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Korea's rich gastronomic tradition.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Korean
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups glutinous rice flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup sweetened red bean paste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour with water gradually, kneading until a smooth, pliable dough forms. The consistency should be soft but not sticky.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15-20 minutes at room temperature to allow the flour to fully absorb the moisture.
- Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until lightly golden and fragrant, then set aside to cool.
- Divide the dough into small, equal-sized portions (approximately 2 tablespoons each).
- Flatten each dough portion into a small circle using your palm, creating a thin, round disc about 3 inches in diameter.
- Place a small amount of sweetened red bean paste (about 1 teaspoon) in the center of each dough disc.
- Carefully fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape, and pinch the edges firmly to seal completely.
- Create decorative edges by gently pressing with a fork or pinching with your fingers to create a crimped pattern.
- Sprinkle the sealed songpyeon with toasted sesame seeds, gently pressing them into the surface.
- Prepare a steamer with a cheesecloth or perforated liner to prevent sticking.
- Arrange songpyeon in the steamer, leaving space between each cake to prevent them from touching.
- Steam over medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes until the rice cakes become translucent and slightly shiny.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Songpyeon can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Tips
- Moisture is Key: When mixing the glutinous rice flour, add water gradually to achieve the perfect dough consistency. It should be smooth and pliable, but not sticky.
- Resting Matters: Allow the dough to rest under a damp cloth for 15-20 minutes. This helps the flour absorb moisture evenly and makes the dough more manageable.
- Sesame Seed Technique: Toast sesame seeds carefully over medium heat. Watch them closely to prevent burning, and let them cool before sprinkling.
- Sealing Secrets: When folding the half-moon, ensure edges are pinched tightly to prevent filling from leaking during steaming.
- Steaming Success: Use a cheesecloth or perforated liner in your steamer to prevent sticking, and don't overcrowd the songpyeon - give them space to cook evenly.
- Serving Suggestion: These delightful rice cakes are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for gatherings or a special treat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
