National Dish South Korea: Bungeoppang (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Bungeoppang, the cheerful fish-shaped pastry that warms up Korean winters! These crisp, golden buns hide a soft, sweet centre and have become a beloved fixture of street stalls across the country. With their playful shape and the gentle sweetness of red bean paste, they make an irresistible snack on a cold day or a charming little dessert at any time. Bring a taste of a bustling Seoul street corner straight into your own kitchen.
About Bungeoppang
Bungeoppang is a much-loved Korean street food that has won a devoted following at home and beyond. These fish-shaped buns are a treat for the eyes as well as the palate, pairing a crisp, lightly sweetened batter with a soft, comforting filling. Traditionally stuffed with sweet red bean paste, they balance a crunchy shell against a creamy, mellow centre. Whether you reach for one as a midday snack or serve it as a simple dessert, Bungeoppang is the perfect treat for any occasion and a proud example of South Korean cuisine.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 150 g flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 200 ml water
- 1 pinch of salt
- 150 g red bean paste, or another filling of your choice
Shopping for the ingredients
To make Bungeoppang you will need a handful of ingredients that are easy to find in well-stocked supermarkets or Asian grocery shops. Look for good-quality products, especially the red bean paste, as it shapes the snack’s signature flavour. Gluten-free flour makes an excellent alternative for anyone with a gluten intolerance. Choose fresh ingredients wherever you can to get the very best taste.
Preparing the dish
Before you start cooking, measure out all your ingredients and have them ready to hand. Combine the flour, baking powder and sugar in a bowl so the dry ingredients are evenly blended. It helps to use a dedicated Bungeoppang pan to achieve the characteristic fish shape. If you do not have one, a waffle iron or an ordinary pan will still work, though the shape may not be quite the same.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, sugar and salt.
- Gradually add the water, stirring until you have a smooth batter.
- Preheat the Bungeoppang pan and lightly grease the moulds.
- Spoon some batter into the pan, add a spoonful of red bean paste, then top with a little more batter.
- Close the pan and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Carefully lift the Bungeoppang out of the pan and let it cool slightly before serving.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
To make Bungeoppang gluten-free, swap the regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Check that the red bean paste is free from any gluten-containing ingredients too. For a lactose-free version, use a plant-based milk such as almond or soya milk to give the batter a lovely consistency. These small tweaks make the dish accessible to everyone, so no one has to miss out on this delicious treat.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For a vegan version of Bungeoppang, replace any animal products such as milk or eggs with plant-based alternatives. Use plant-based milk and a little ground flaxseed as an egg substitute, for example. The filling is just as flexible: alongside red bean paste, fresh fruit or other vegan spreads work beautifully. That way vegans can enjoy these crisp little fish buns with a clear conscience.
More tips and tricks
A key trick when making Bungeoppang is getting the pan to just the right temperature. If the heat is too high, the outside can scorch while the inside stays raw. A gentle, moderate heat ensures the pastry cooks through evenly. Experiment with different fillings, too, until you discover your own personal favourite.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The fillings for Bungeoppang are wonderfully variable and easy to tailor to your taste. Beyond the traditional red bean paste, you can try chocolate hazelnut spread, fruit mixtures or even savoury fillings for a completely new experience. Being able to make the recipe your own turns Bungeoppang into an exciting snack for any occasion. Be creative and try out different combinations — much as you would when playing with the toppings on a Pajeon!
Ingredient substitutions
If you cannot find red bean paste, it is easy to make your own. Simply cook some red beans and purée them with a little sugar. Jam or chocolate spread also make excellent alternatives. Just make sure the filling is thick enough so that it does not leak out of the Bungeoppang while it cooks, the same care you would give the sweet glaze on a batch of Yakgwa.
Drink pairing ideas
Bungeoppang pairs wonderfully with a range of drinks. A cup of green tea or a refreshing fruit tea is a perfect match for this sweet snack. For those who like something a little richer, Korean drinks such as milk tea or soya milk are well worth trying. These beverages round off the experience and bring just the right note of refreshment as you tuck in.
Serving and presentation ideas
A beautifully arranged plate always makes a better impression. Serve the Bungeoppang on an attractive plate and dust it with a little icing sugar or a drizzle of fruit sauce. Small, colourful extras such as pieces of fruit or fresh mint leaves add a bright, fresh touch. These finishing details lift the dish and make it ideal for celebrations or special occasions — a treat as sweet as a plate of Gangjeong.
A bit of history
Bungeoppang has its roots in South Korea, where it was originally sold as a wintertime snack. The shape of the pastry is inspired by the bungeo (crucian carp), a nod to Korean symbolism and tradition. It surged in popularity during the 1980s and is today a much-loved snack on the streets of Korea and across many Asian countries. Over the years the recipe has continued to evolve and is increasingly appreciated well beyond Korea’s borders.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Bungeoppang
Bungeoppang is a delicious and versatile Korean treat that works equally well as a snack or a sweet dessert. It is simple to make, and you can have plenty of fun experimenting with different fillings. Sweet or savoury, there is a version here for everyone. Let Korean cuisine inspire you and enjoy the unmistakable charm of Bungeoppang!
