Mandu: the Korean dumpling. Usually known to be crescent-shaped, these larger versions are round and blomp-sized and make for a hearty and appetizing snack when you’re rushing through the streets of Seoul.

If you’re in Seoul’s Namdaemoon market area, keep an eye out for a cluster of hungry shoppers waiting for a quick and delicious dumpling snack. This ever-popular hot spot always has a constant stream of snackers gathering around the jjin (steamed) mandu (dumpling) stand.

As you approach the stand and make your way through the hungry crowd, you’ll discover a flurry of expert mandu makers stuffing and sealing dumplings with great speed and nimbleness.

Vats of yummy mandu filling. Pork, green onion, mushrooms, garlic chives, sprouts, cabbage, black pepper and secret ingredients. Chop chop chop, mix mix mix.

Once they’re stuffed and steamed to perfection in a traditional bamboo steamer, the mandu peacefully wait to be purchased and devoured. These mandu wrappers are hand-made from a simple flour dough which have a light and slightly chewy texture.

Much tastiness is packed into each mandu offering delight with every bite. Very little spice is added to the filling as the flavors of the minced pork and each vegetable come to fullness through the steaming process.

These large and delicious blomps are also available at the mandu stand. Same filling, different shape. Enjoy!

Price: 2000₩ / 6 mandu

Location: Namdaemoon Market, Hoehyun Station (subway line #4)