When it comes to incorporating more nutrients into our diet, few ingredients are as versatile or delicious as sweet potatoes. In Korea, where sweet potatoes have been a staple for centuries, they’re not just limited to being a side dish – they’re a key ingredient in many popular recipes. From savory pancakes and noodles to sweet treats like latte and dessert, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping main course, Korean sweet potatoes have got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of Korean sweet potato cuisine. From classic dishes to modern twists, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with one of Korea’s most beloved ingredients. So, let’s dive in and discover the wonderful world of Korean sweet potatoes!
Korean Sweet Potato Pancakes
These crispy and savory pancakes are a popular street food in Korea, typically served during the winter months when sweet potatoes are at their peak flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can recreate this delicious treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– Sugar or honey to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add vegetable oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Beat in the egg until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Cook pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with sugar or honey to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Korean Sweet Potato Wedges
Roasted Korean Sweet Potato Wedges Recipe
Sweet potatoes meet spicy Korean flair in this addictive snack. Crispy on the outside and fluffy within, these roasted wedges are perfect for munching while watching a K-drama or as a side dish to your favorite Korean meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut sweet potatoes into 8-10 wedges.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and sesame oil.
4. Add the sweet potato wedges to the marinade and toss to coat.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the wedges in a single layer.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until crispy and tender.
7. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean Sweet Potato Noodles (Japchae)
Japchae is a classic Korean dish made from sweet potato starch noodles, beef, and vegetables. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional dish that can be easily prepared at home.
Ingredients:
– 200g sweet potato starch noodles
– 1/2 pound beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the sweet potato starch noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
5. Add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for about 2-3 minutes.
6. Return the beef to the pan and stir-fry for an additional minute.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato Bibimbap
Sweet Potato Bibimbap Recipe: A Twist on a Classic Korean Dish
Bibimbap, which translates to “mixed rice,” is a popular Korean dish typically made with vegetables, meat (usually beef), and a fried egg. In this recipe, we’re giving it a sweet twist by substituting the traditional white rice with roasted sweet potato and adding some fall flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers)
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon soy sauce or gochujang for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the sweet potatoes in the sesame oil for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a separate pan, cook the mixed vegetables and cooked rice over medium heat.
4. Fry an egg and set aside.
5. Assemble the bibimbap by placing a scoop of roasted sweet potato on a plate, followed by the vegetable and rice mixture, and topped with the fried egg.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and add soy sauce or gochujang if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Korean Sweet Potato Latte
This sweet and creamy latte is a popular winter drink in Korea, made with roasted sweet potato, milk, and spices. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick pick-me-up on a cold day.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato
– 2 cups milk (whole, low-fat, or nonfat)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the sweet potato for 45-60 minutes, or until soft and caramelized.
3. Let the sweet potato cool, then peel and mash in a blender or food processor.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and vanilla extract.
5. Add the mashed sweet potato to the milk mixture and blend until smooth.
6. Pour into cups and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including roasting time)
Sweet Potato Kimchi Stew
A twist on traditional Korean kimchi stew, this recipe combines the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the spicy kick of kimchi and gochujang. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sweet potatoes and cook for 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Add the gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, kimchi, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Korean Sweet Potato Fritters
Sweet potato fritters are a popular Korean street food called “hangawi” or “” in Korean. These crispy and sweet treats are perfect as a snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, cornstarch, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the water to form a thick batter.
3. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the oil, forming small balls.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Potato and Chestnut Rice
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of chestnuts, creating a delicious and nutritious side dish perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup cooked chestnuts (canned or fresh)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potato with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread sweet potato on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, roasted sweet potato, and chestnuts.
5. Stir-fry over low heat for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean Sweet Potato Bread
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the warmth and comfort of freshly baked bread. The result is a crispy, golden-brown loaf with a soft, fluffy interior.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– Sesame seeds or chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add mashed sweet potatoes, yeast, and oil. Mix until smooth.
3. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet Potato Tempura with Dipping Sauce
Discover the sweet and crispy delight of Japanese-inspired tempura! This recipe transforms ordinary sweet potatoes into an extraordinary snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
2. Gradually add soda water, stirring until batter is smooth and free of lumps.
3. Dip sweet potato cubes into the batter, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry sweet potatoes in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
6. Drain tempura on paper towels and serve hot with Dipping Sauce (recipe below).
Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
Combine ingredients in a bowl, whisking until smooth. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Korean Sweet Potato Salad
This sweet potato salad is a popular Korean side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of roasted sweet potatoes, crunchy vegetables, and spicy gochujang sauce makes it a delightful and flavorful addition to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup diced carrots
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce sweet potatoes several times with a fork and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a blender, combine Gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the blended sauce and chopped green onions.
4. Add roasted sweet potatoes, toasted sesame seeds, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
5. Stir in diced cucumber and carrots.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Sweet Potato and Spinach Dumplings
Sweet Potato and Spinach Dumplings: A Delicious Twist on Traditional Dumplings
These sweet potato and spinach dumplings are a unique twist on traditional dumplings, combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of spinach. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– Water, for wrapping
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, spinach, flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the olive oil and beaten egg to the mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into disk shapes.
4. Wrap each dumpling with water and shape into desired form (e.g., round or oval).
5. Cook dumplings in boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Korean Sweet Potato Soup
Korean Sweet Potato Soup Recipe: A Warm and Comforting Delight
Warm up with this comforting Korean sweet potato soup recipe, perfect for a cozy evening or as a soothing remedy on a chilly day. This sweet and savory soup is made with simple ingredients and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine diced sweet potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
2. Add sugar, Gochujang, soy sauce, ginger, black pepper, and garlic. Simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with green onion slices.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Tofu Stir-Fry
Sweet Potato and Tofu Stir-Fry: A flavorful and nutritious combination of sweet potatoes, crispy tofu, and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add oil, onion, and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add ginger, sweet potato, and tofu; stir-fry for 5 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes start to soften.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey; pour over the sweet potato mixture.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sweet potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-18 minutes.
Korean Sweet Potato Porridge
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Korean sweet potato porridge, also known as “garaetteok” in Korean. This simple and nourishing dessert is perfect for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a medium-sized pot with 4 cups of water over high heat.
2. Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then cut them into small pieces.
3. Add the sweet potato pieces to the boiling water, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until they are tender.
4. Drain the sweet potatoes and mash them with a fork or potato masher.
5. Mix in sugar, salt, and sesame oil (if using).
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Red Bean Dessert
This unique dessert combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy texture of red beans, resulting in a deliciously comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup cooked red kidney beans
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, red beans, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. Add heavy cream and melted butter to the mixture; stir until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean Sweet Potato Chips
Experience the addictive crunch of Korean sweet potato chips with this simple recipe. Thinly sliced and double-fried, these chips are perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
3. In a bowl, mix together sugar, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the sliced sweet potatoes to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the sugar mixture.
5. Fry the sweet potato slices in batches for 3-4 minutes or until they start to curl and turn golden brown.
6. Remove the chips from the oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry the chips again for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
8. Drain and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato and Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these sweet potato and chicken skewers, packed with flavor and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add sweet potato and chicken pieces to the bowl; toss to coat evenly.
4. Thread 2-3 pieces of sweet potato and 2-3 pieces of chicken onto each skewer.
5. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Korean Sweet Potato Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a popular Korean dessert made with sweet potatoes, sugar, and spices. It’s perfect for a snack or as a topping for ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well until smooth.
3. Add vegetable oil and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Pour batter into prepared cake pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Serve warm or at room temperature, dust with powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy!
Sweet Potato and Sesame Balls
Sweet Potato and Sesame Balls: A Delicious Twist on Traditional Snacks!
These crispy, savory treats combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the nutty flavor of sesame seeds. Perfect as a snack or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake the sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. Let the sweet potatoes cool, then peel and mash them in a bowl.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together sesame seeds, flour, salt, and pepper.
5. Gradually add the olive oil to the sesame seed mixture, stirring until a crumbly texture forms.
6. Add the mashed sweet potato to the sesame seed mixture and stir until combined.
7. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
8. Place the sweet potato and sesame balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until crispy.
Cooking Time: Total time: 65-75 minutes; Prep time: 15 minutes; Cook time: 50-60 minutes.
Summary
Discover the versatility of Korean sweet potatoes with these 20 delicious recipes for every occasion. From savory dishes like Japchae (Korean sweet potato noodles) and Kimchi Stew to sweet treats like Korean Sweet Potato Latte and Sweet Potato and Red Bean Dessert, there’s something for everyone. Try making crispy Roasted Korean Sweet Potato Wedges or comforting Sweet Potato Bibimbap. For a snack, indulge in Korean Sweet Potato Chips or Sweet Potato Fritters. Whatever the occasion, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.