Korean Chilly Season Snacks to Warm Your Body

Korea's chilly season, typically during the fall and winter months, brings a delightful array of snacks that are not only delicious but also warming and comforting. These snacks are perfect for enjoying on cold and windy days. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some popular Korean chilly season snacks that will warm your body. 

Bungeoppang (붕어빵)

Bungeoppang, often referred to as "fish-shaped bread," is a beloved Korean treat that has evolved over the years to include various delectable fillings. Traditionally filled with sweet red bean paste, you can now find a wide range of options, such as custard, sweet potato and pizza flavors. There was once a debate on which one is better, custard or red bean bungeoppang.

Hotteok (호떡)

Hotteok, a popular Korean street food, truly shines during the colder months. These sweet pancakes are made from a yeasted dough filled with a mouthwatering mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and crushed nuts. The result is a delightful contrast of crispy exterior and gooey, sweet interior—a perfect indulgence to keep you warm.

Odeng (오뎅)

Odeng, also known as fish cake skewers, is a classic Korean winter snack. These fish cakes are typically skewered on sticks and served in a steaming hot broth. You can pick your favorite fish cake varieties, and they come with a dipping sauce (typically soy sauce) that adds extra flavor and warmth, making them a comforting choice in chilly weather.

Chestnuts and Sweet Potatoes (군밤 & 군고구마)

Roasted chestnuts, known as “gundam,” are a common street snack in Korea during the fall and winter. Vendors often sell them from carts, and the aroma of roasting chestnuts is enticing. These delicious treats not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide a toasty, hand-warming experience. Sweet potatoes are another favorite winter snack in Korea. As winter approaches, it’s relatively common to see sweet potatoes sold on the street or in convenience stores. They’re popular during the winter season and make a great warming snack.

Steamed buns (호빵/찐빵) 

Steamed buns are another favorite winter snack in Korea. They come in a variety of flavors, including red beans, vegetables, and pizza, and are a beloved choice for winter snacking in Korea. As the weather gets colder, you can often find them sold alongside sweet potatoes in convenience stores.

As the weather is slowly getting colder, bungeoppang and other snacks are starting to appear again, so you should definitely try them.