What is Goguma Mattang? 고구마맛탕
In Korea, sweet potatoes are one of the most popular winter staples. When the cold weather sets in, warm, freshly cooked sweet potatoes are the perfect snack to enjoy, providing comfort and a touch of sweetness to brighten the chilly days. But Koreans don’t stop at just roasting sweet potatoes. Among the many creative ways to enjoy them, Goguma Mattang stands out as a true favorite.
Nostalgic Snacks for Koreans
Candied sweet potatoes (goguma mattang) is a nostalgic treat for many Koreans, often evoking childhood memories. Typically made as a snack for children, it consists of crispy, golden-fried sweet potatoes covered in a glossy layer of sweet syrup. The combination of the crunchy exterior and the caramelized sweetness is absolutely irresistible, making it a treat that’s hard to put down.
Another favorite childhood Korean snack, besides goguma mattang(고구마맛탕), is hotteok (Korean sweet pancakes). Here’s both the original version of hotteok and an easy no-dough recipe (korean honey hotteok). They’re absolutely delicious, so be sure to try them!
Why are Korean Sweet Potatoes So Good?
Difference in Varieties
Korean sweet potatoes are mainly represented by chestnut sweet potatoes (bam goguma) and pumpkin sweet potatoes (hobak goguma). These varieties are high in starch, have a chewy or creamy texture when roasted, and are noticeably sweeter. In contrast, Western sweet potatoes (especially the American “sweet potato”) have a higher water content, a softer texture, and are generally less sweet.
Growing Environment
Korean sweet potatoes are grown in a climate with four distinct seasons and soil conditions that enhance their sweetness and flavor. Especially when harvested in the fall, they undergo a natural curing process that further enhances their sweetness.
Today, I’m excited to share a version of goguma mattang (Korean caramelized sweet potatoes) that is even crispier and more flavorful than the classic recipe. Traditionally, Koreans use mulyeot (Korean syrup) to coat the sweet potatoes, but this ingredient can be hard to find and quite expensive abroad. Instead, I’ll show you how to make a simpler but equally delicious version using sugar.
This Korean recipe is easy to follow and perfect for warming up on a cold day. With its crunchy texture and sweet caramel flavor, this snack is sure to bring a smile to your face and perhaps even a sense of nostalgia, no matter where you are. So why not give it a try? Let’s bring a little bit of Korea to your kitchen!
Goguma Mattang (Korean Candied Sweet Potatoes)
Equipment
- 1 Knife & cutting board
- 1 Frying pan
- 1 Spatula or tongs
- 1 Tablespoon
Ingredients
- 1 sweet potato
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 6 tbsp cooking oil
Instructions
1. Preparing the Sweet Potato
- Peel the sweet potato (optional).
- Cut it into bite-sized pieces.
- Avoid cutting pieces too thick to ensure even cooking.
2. Frying the Sweet Potato
- Heat 6 Tbsp of cooking oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-low heat.
- Fry the sweet potato pieces until golden and cooked through.
- Remove the fried sweet potatoes and set them aside.
3. Preparing the Caramel Coating
- Without removing the oil, sprinkle 3 Tbsp of sugar over the hot oil in the pan.
- Do not stir the sugar; let it melt naturally over medium-low heat.
4. Coating the Sweet Potatoes
- Once the sugar starts to melt, quickly return the fried sweet potato pieces to the pan.
- Toss and mix the sweet potatoes with the caramel to ensure an even coating.
5. Serving
- Let the coated sweet potatoes cool slightly before serving.
- Perfect as a snack or dessert!
Jal meokgetseumnida!
- Korean Goguma Mattang
- 잘 먹겠습니다!
Did you make this recipe?
Please let me know how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below and tag @blondekimchi_ on Instagram and hashtag it #blondekimchi.
This Goguma Mattang recipe is pure magic! The sweet potatoes turned out perfectly crispy, with a beautiful caramel coating that’s the perfect balance of sweetness. I love how simple and quick it is to make. This is the perfect snack to enjoy on a chilly day. Will definitely make it again!