송편 · Songpyeon

Songpyeon

송편

What exactly is it?

Rice dough encloses a sesame, bean or chestnut filling before steaming. Sesame-and-sugar versions are sweet; others are milder. Half-moon shapes are familiar, but size, color and form vary between regions and makers.

Main ingredients

Rice flour, water, sesame, bean or chestnut filling and sesame oil; optional pine needles or mugwort

Ordering and serving

Color does not reliably identify the filling. Ask whether it is sesame, bean or chestnut, especially when choosing an assortment.

Origins and changes

Associated with Chuseok and new rice, songpyeon is traditionally steamed over pine needles. Dongguk Sesigi also records its use in spring agricultural customs, beyond the autumn holiday.

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How do similar dishes compare?

Choose a dish to compare ingredients, flavor and serving style side by side.

Songpyeon

송편

Main ingredients: Rice flour, water, sesame, bean or chestnut filling and sesame oil; optional pine needles or mugwort
Flavor and character: Rice dough encloses a sesame, bean or chestnut filling before steaming. Sesame-and-sugar versions are sweet; others are milder. Half-moon shapes are familiar, but size, color and form vary between regions and makers.
How to eat it: Color does not reliably identify the filling. Ask whether it is sesame, bean or chestnut, especially when choosing an assortment.

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Injeolmi

인절미

Main ingredients: Sticky rice, salt and soybean, red-bean or mung-bean coating; optional mugwort
Flavor and character: Steamed sticky rice is pounded, cut and coated with soybean powder or another grain coating. The flavor comes from the outside rather than a filled center. Stretchy rice cake contrasts with the loose powder, and mugwort makes a green version.
How to eat it: Chew one small piece thoroughly. Avoid taking a large mouthful of sticky cake and dry powder at once.

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