Hotteok (Korean sweet pancakes)

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm water with sugar and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is active.
  2. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and add the vegetable oil. Mix everything together with a spatula until a sticky dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Use your hands to gently knead the dough in the bowl for a few minutes, just until smooth. The dough will be quite sticky, which is normal.
  4. Let the Dough Rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it sit in a warm area for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. Mix the Filling Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts. Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Shape the Hotteok

  1. Portion the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air. Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking, and divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball.
  2. Add the Filling: Take one ball of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place about 1 tablespoon of the sugar-cinnamon-nut mixture in the center.
  3. Seal the Dough: Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the filling inside, forming a ball. Make sure the filling is securely enclosed so it doesn’t leak out while cooking. Repeat with the remaining dough balls.

Step 4: Cook the Hotteok

  1. Heat the Pan: Place a skillet or nonstick pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Swirl the pan to coat the bottom evenly.
  2. Cook the Pancakes: Place a dough ball in the skillet and let it cook for about 30 seconds. Then, using a flat spatula, press down on the dough ball to flatten it into a round pancake about 1/4-inch thick. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown.
  3. Flip and Cook the Other Side: Flip the pancake and press down gently again to flatten it. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until both sides are golden and crispy, and the filling inside is melted and gooey.
  4. Repeat: Repeat with the remaining dough balls, adding more oil to the pan as needed.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Cool Slightly and Serve: Let the hotteok cool for a minute or two, as the filling will be very hot. Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, cinnamon-sweet filling with the crispy, chewy pancake.

Tips for the Best Hotteok

  • Oil Your Hands: The dough is sticky, so oiling your hands will make it easier to handle.
  • Flatten Carefully: Be gentle when pressing down the hotteok in the pan to avoid breaking the dough and spilling the filling.
  • Experiment with Fillings: Try different fillings, like Nutella, red bean paste, or even mozzarella cheese, for unique variations!

These Hotteok are irresistibly delicious, with a warm, spiced sweetness that’s perfect for any time of year. Enjoy these delightful pancakes with a hot drink for the ultimate cozy treat!

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