Dalgona

Korean Dessert Dalgona: Travel to Korea from your Kitchen

Dalgona, also known in Korean as ppopgi, is a traditional sweet that has experienced a notable resurgence in contemporary pop culture, primarily through social media. This sugar candy, whose simplicity hides a rich history, has its roots in the streets of South Korea during the 1960s and 1970s. In those years, Dalgona was not only a popular snack among children, but also a means of entertainment and subsistence for many street vendors.

Dalgona vendors used to set up near schools, luring children with the promise of a sweet and fun treat. The preparation of Dalgona was quite a spectacle; Vendors melted sugar and mixed it with a pinch of baking soda to create a spongy mixture that they then flattened and molded into various shapes. Children could try to cut out the shapes without breaking them to win prizes, which added an element of challenge and excitement to the experience.

The Dalgona became a nostalgic symbol for many generations of Koreans, evoking memories of a childhood full of simplicity and joy. Its resurgence in modern culture, especially through platforms like TikTok and Instagram, has brought this traditional sweet to a global audience. The television series “The Squid Game” has also contributed to its popularity, featuring the Dalgona as a central element in one of its most iconic episodes.

The history of Dalgona reflects not only the evolution of Korean culture, but also the way in which tradition and modernity can coexist and complement each other. This simple candy has transcended generations, retaining its essence while adapting to modern times. Today, Dalgona is not just a sweet treat, but a tangible connection to the past and a celebration of creativity and cultural resilience.

Travel and get to know Korea through the Dalgona

Dalgona, also known as “ppopgi,” is not just a simple dessert; It is a unique window into the rich culture and daily life of South Korea. This traditional sweet, made from sugar and baking soda, offers a fascinating insight into Korean cuisine and its culinary traditions. In Korea, it is common to find street stalls and local markets where vendors prepare Dalgona right in front of you, an experience that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant and dynamic atmosphere of Korean streets.

By visiting local markets such as the famous Gwangjang Market in Seoul, one can observe first-hand the making of Dalgona and other Korean delicacies. These markets are not only shopping centers, but also social meeting points where the community gathers to share food and customs. Preparing Dalgona in these environments is almost an art form, with vendors who have perfected their technique over the years, creating intricate shapes and patterns in the hardened candy.

Furthermore, South Korea has key tourist destinations that are famous for their culinary delights. Cities like Jeonju, known for its vibrant street food scene, and Busan, with its Jagalchi fish market, offer visitors the opportunity to explore a wide variety of traditional flavors and dishes. Even on the streets of Insadong in Seoul, you can find Dalgona prepared in the traditional style, allowing tourists to experience a piece of Korean history and culture.

Exploring South Korea through its cuisine, and particularly through the Dalgona, is an enriching way to better understand the life and customs of this fascinating country. From local markets to culinary tourist destinations, Dalgona offers a gateway to the authentic Korean experience, inviting travelers to savor and discover beyond the ordinary.

Tips for Preparing Dalgona at Home

Making Dalgona at home can be a fun and educational activity that allows you to immerse yourself in Korean culture from your own kitchen. Known for its crunchy texture and sweetness, this Korean candy requires just a few basic ingredients: sugar and baking soda. To get the best result, it is important to have the right tools and utensils on hand, such as a non-stick pan, a wooden spoon, and molds to shape the candy.

The Dalgona making process begins by heating the sugar over medium heat in a non-stick pan. It is crucial to stir constantly to prevent the sugar from burning. Once the sugar has melted and is a light amber color, add a pinch of baking soda. This step is essential since baking soda is what gives Dalgona its fluffy and airy texture. When adding the baking soda, mix quickly and vigorously to distribute it evenly before the mixture begins to harden.

To shape the Dalgona, pour the mixture onto a flat, lightly greased surface. This is where you can let your creativity fly. You can use molds of different shapes to make unique designs, a common practice in South Korea. Cookie cutters shaped like stars, hearts, or animals are popular choices.

Avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving a perfect Dalgona. Do not overheat the sugar, as it may burn and take on a bitter taste. Also, make sure you use the right amount of baking soda; too much can cause the mixture to expand too quickly and become unwieldy.

Experimenting with different shapes and designs not only makes the experience more entertaining, but also allows you to enjoy an authentic Korean experience. With these tips and tricks, you will be well equipped to prepare and enjoy your own homemade Dalgona.

The Step by Step Recipe