Gyeongdan - Sweet Rice Cake Balls

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) glutinous rice flour 1 cup (200g) glutinous rice flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) sugar 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• Filling options: red bean paste, crushed peanuts, black sesame seeds Filling options: red bean paste, crushed peanuts, black sesame seeds
• Coating options: coconut flakes, crushed sesame seeds, powdered soybean Coating options: coconut flakes, crushed sesame seeds, powdered soybean

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0.5g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 8g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water. Mix well until a smooth dough forms.
2. 2.
   Divide the dough into small portions and flatten each portion with your palm.
3. 3.
   Place a small amount of your desired filling (red bean paste, crushed peanuts, or black sesame seeds) in the center of each flattened dough portion.
4. 4.
   Gently fold the edges of the dough over the filling, sealing it completely. Roll it into a ball shape.
5. 5.
   Bring a pot of water to a boil. Drop the rice cake balls into the boiling water and cook until they float to the surface, about 3-5 minutes.
6. 6.
   Remove the cooked rice cake balls from the water and let them cool slightly.
7. 7.
   Roll the cooked rice cake balls in your preferred coating (coconut flakes, crushed sesame seeds, or powdered soybean) until fully coated.
8. 8.
   Serve the Gyeongdan immediately or refrigerate for later enjoyment.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Glutinous rice flour — Make sure to use glutinous rice flour specifically, as it gives the rice cake balls their characteristic chewy texture.
• Red bean paste — If using store-bought red bean paste, choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor. Alternatively, you can make your own by cooking and sweetening red beans until they form a paste-like consistency.
• Coconut flakes — Toast the coconut flakes in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes to enhance their flavor before using them as a coating.

Tips & Tricks

• To prevent the rice cake balls from sticking together, lightly coat your hands with a small amount of oil before shaping the dough.
• Experiment with different fillings and coatings to create a variety of flavors and textures.
• If the dough becomes too sticky to handle, dust your hands with glutinous rice flour while shaping the rice cake balls.
• Serve Gyeongdan with a cup of traditional Korean tea for a complete cultural experience.
• These rice cake balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve Gyeongdan as a delightful dessert or snack. Arrange them on a plate or in a decorative bowl for an attractive presentation. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of tea for a truly satisfying experience.

Presentation advice

For an eye-catching presentation, arrange the Gyeongdan in a circular pattern on a serving platter. Sprinkle some extra coconut flakes or crushed sesame seeds on top for added visual appeal. Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a touch of elegance.