What is Bungeoppang?

Bungeoppang is a fish-shaped filled dessert that is enjoyed as a street food in Korea. We take a look at this cute street food snack, its origin and how you can enjoy it at home.

What is Bungeoppang?

Bungeoppang is a bit like a waffle on the outside, with a tasty filling inside. It is also sometimes described as a pastry or sweet bread.

A classic bungeoppang will be made from wheat flour and be filled with a red bean paste. However, there are a variety of alternative fillings available, such as custard, cream or chocolate.

Bungeo means crucian carp and Ppang means bread in Korean, so the dessert is simply named after what it is and looks like!

How is Bungeoppang Made?

Bungeoppang is served warm, usually freshly made by a street food vendor. They are made in a special fish-shaped waffle iron to achieve their signature design.

Batter is poured into the fish mould; the filling is then added, and then more batter is added to encase the filling. The mould is closed and heated.

Origins of Bungeoppang

Bungeoppang originates from a similar Japanese treat, Taiyaki. Taiyaki is also a fish-shaped treat, which is filled with red azuki bean paste.

Taiyaki were introduced to Korea during the 1930s, and over time, Korean street food vendors have adapted the dish to make it their own. For example, bungeoppang is smaller in size when compared to the taiyaki.

Bungeoppang Variations

In the summer months, try ah-boong for an ice cream variation of bungeoppang. Ah-boong is a fish-shaped waffle/bread-like bungeoppang, but instead of having a filling, the mouth area is open and hollow, allowing for ice cream to be scooped or squeezed in, often with fun, colourful peaks of swirled ice cream!