The 2 Best Yakgwa in Seoul

Yakgwa is a traditional Korean sweet pastry that is often enjoyed during festive occasions and special holidays. It is made by deep-frying wheat flour dough and then coating it in a sweet syrup made from honey, sugar, or maltose. The finished pastry is typically shaped like a flower or leaf and is known for its delicate texture and rich flavor. Yakgwa is considered a luxurious treat and is commonly served as a dessert or snack in Korea.

To make yakgwa, the dough is first kneaded with oil and water, and then rolled out thinly before being cut into various shapes. These shapes are then lightly scored with a knife to create a unique pattern. The pieces of dough are then deep-fried in oil until they are golden brown and crispy. Once fried, they are drained and then soaked in the sweet syrup to give them their signature flavor and glossy appearance. Finally, the yakgwa is left to cool and harden before being served.

If you are looking to try yakgwa in Seoul, you can find it in various traditional Korean bakeries, dessert shops, and markets throughout the city. Many restaurants and cafes also offer yakgwa as part of their dessert menu, making it easy for visitors to sample this delicious treat. Some popular places to try yakgwa in Seoul include Gwangjang Market, Insadong, and Myeongdong, where you can find a wide selection of traditional Korean snacks and sweets.

While yakgwa is a vegetarian dish, it is not typically considered vegan-friendly due to the use of honey in the syrup. However, some recipes for yakgwa may use alternative sweeteners such as sugar or maltose, making them suitable for a vegan diet. If you are following a vegan lifestyle and wish to try yakgwa, be sure to ask the vendor or restaurant about the ingredients used in their recipe to ensure that it meets your dietary requirements.