The kitchen is a wonderful place to enjoy good company.
There’s something very intimate about sharing evocative memories together; of smells that remind us of childhood treats and tastes that recall celebrations of the past.
Comparing and contrasting the recipes that we have in common; scrutinising their similarities and differences. Sharing the intrigue of new twists on a classic and observing the subtle quirks of our different traditions.
Then there’s the excitement of an opportunity to learn about dishes that are completely distinct from our own culinary experience. Even better; the chance to make it and taste it for yourself.
I was lucky enough to share this weekend with a couple of friends who are unfailingly generous with their time, patience and enthusiasm for sharing South Korean cookery; and the result was homemade Hotteok.
Hotteok is a popular sweet Korean street food. A thick, yeasted pancake with a sticky, sugary concoction nestled in its centre; typically brown sugar, cinnamon and chopped nuts.
We spent a happy, industrious time in my tiny galley kitchen, huddled around the oven together whilst conjuring up the perfect Winter snack to share; a little Korean sweetness to warm up a cold Norwich evening.
Concentrating on the recipe and instructions; mixing the perfect temperature of water to gently blend through with yeast.
Stirring and kneading and folding until the dough forms; thick and stretchy.
Setting the frying pan to sizzle as we shaped our little patties; making a deep well to fill with a sugary confection, carefully nipped and folded in on itself to make a centre that, when heated, oozes like honey.
Patience and some nimble flipping turns soft, pale little cinnamon scented clouds into crispy golden Hotteok.
A snack that tastes even better when it’s accompanied by laughter and friendship!
norwich lunchbox 