๐ฐ๐ท South Korea ยท Dessert
Half-Moon Rice Cakes
By eatmundo ยท July 12, 2026
๐ฐ๐ท KRChewy, steamed rice cakes shaped like half-moons, traditionally filled with sweet sesame seeds or red bean paste. They are a staple of the Korean harvest festival.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
In a large bowl, mix 200g sweet rice flour with a pinch of salt and enough boiling water to form a firm dough.
- 2
Knead the dough on a flat surface for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 3
Divide the dough into 12 small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
- 4
Flatten each ball into a shallow cup shape in your palm.
- 5
Place 1 tsp of red bean paste in the center of each dough piece.
- 6
Fold the dough over to seal the edges and pinch it into a classic half-moon shape.
- 7
Line a steamer basket with pine needles or parchment paper.
- 8
Steam the cakes over boiling water for 20-25 minutes until translucent and shiny.
- 9
Rinse briefly in cold water and coat with a little sesame oil to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular rice flour instead of sweet rice flour for these half-moon rice cakes?+
No, you must use glutinous or sweet rice flour because regular rice flour lacks the necessary starch to create the chewy, elastic texture characteristic of this dessert.
How do I prevent the red bean paste from leaking out during the steaming process?+
Ensure the edges of the half-moon are pressed firmly and tightly sealed; chilling the formed cakes for 10 minutes before steaming also helps them hold their shape.
How long should I steam the rice cakes to ensure they are fully cooked?+
Steam the cakes over medium-high heat for approximately 15 to 20 minutes until the dough turns translucent and firm to the touch.
What is the best way to prevent the cooked rice cakes from sticking together?+
Lightly brush the finished rice cakes with a small amount of sesame oil or vegetable oil immediately after removing them from the steamer.
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