1. Introduction to Injeolmi
Korean Injeolmi (인절미) is
a traditional glutinous rice cake
with a distinctive chewy texture and nutty flavor.
It holds a special place in Korean cuisine,
enjoyed both as a daily snack and
during festive occasions.
In this article,
we will explore the history, ingredients,
preparation methods, different variations,
and the modern adaptations of Injeolmi.
2. What is Injeolmi?
Injeolmi (인절미) is
a type of tteok (떡), or Korean rice cake,
made by steaming and pounding glutinous rice,
then coating it with a fine powder,
typically roasted soybean flour (kinako, 콩고물).
Its soft, chewy texture and subtly sweet,
nutty taste make it one of the most beloved
Korean traditional desserts.
3. The History of Injeolmi
3.1 Origins and Royal Connection
The origins of Injeolmi trace back to
the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897).
According to historical records,
Injeolmi gained prominence during
the reign of King Injo (1623–1649).
A well-known legend states that
while fleeing a rebellion,
King Injo was served a simple yet
delicious rice cake by a local villager.
Impressed by its taste, he asked for its name,
but since it had none, he named it "Imjeolmi"
after the host’s surname,
which later evolved into "Injeolmi."
3.2 Injeolmi in Korean Culture
Injeolmi is commonly associated with
longevity, prosperity, and celebration.
It is a staple in Korean ancestral rites (jesa, 제사)
and traditional wedding ceremonies (pyebaek, 폐백),
symbolizing good fortune and unity.
4. Ingredients and Preparation
4.1 Essential Ingredients
To make authentic Injeolmi,
you need
- Glutinous Rice (찹쌀, Chapssal)
Provides the signature chewy texture. - Water (물)
Hydrates the rice for steaming. - Salt (소금)
Enhances the flavor. - Roasted Soybean Powder (콩고물, Kinako)
Gives a nutty aroma and
prevents the rice cake from sticking.
4.2 Step-by-Step Preparation
Step1. Steaming the Rice
- Wash and soak glutinous rice for 4–6 hours.
- Drain and steam the rice until fully cooked
(about 40–50 minutes).
Step2. Pounding the Rice
- While still hot, pound the rice using
a wooden pestle or a rice cake machine
until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step3. Shaping the Dough
- Stretch the dough into a flat sheet
and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
Step4. Coating with Powder
- Generously coat each piece with
roasted soybean flour or other preferred toppings.
5. Variations of Injeolmi
Injeolmi can be adapted with
different coatings and flavors.
Here are some popular variations
5.1 Classic Injeolmi
- Traditional yellow roasted soybean flour coating.
5.2 Black Sesame Injeolmi (흑임자 인절미)
- Coated with finely ground black sesame seeds,
adding a deep, earthy flavor.
5.3 Green Tea Injeolmi (녹차 인절미)
- Infused with matcha powder for
a subtle bitterness and vibrant green color.
5.4 Mugwort Injeolmi (쑥 인절미)
- Mixed with mugwort (쑥, ssuk),
a fragrant herb known for its health benefits.
5.5 Red Bean Injeolmi (팥 인절미)
- Coated or filled with sweet red bean paste (팥, pat).
5.6 Coconut Injeolmi
- A modern twist where Injeolmi
is dusted with coconut flakes
instead of soybean powder.
6. Modern Uses and Innovations
6.1 Injeolmi in Contemporary Desserts
The traditional Injeolmi has inspired
many fusion desserts in modern Korean cuisine,
including
- Injeolmi Bingsu (인절미 빙수)
A popular summer dessert with
shaved ice, condensed milk, and Injeolmi pieces.
- Injeolmi Toast (인절미 토스트)
Crispy toast filled with
melted Injeolmi and honey.
- Injeolmi Latte (인절미 라떼)
A nutty and creamy latte
made with soybean flour.
- Injeolmi Ice Cream (인절미 아이스크림)
A chewy and creamy blend of Injeolmi flavors.
6.2 Health Benefits of Injeolmi
- Rich in plant-based protein from soybean flour.
- Gluten-free, making it suitable for
those with wheat allergies. - Energy-boosting
due to its high carbohydrate content.
7. Where to Buy or Try Injeolmi
7.1 Buying Injeolmi
- Korean Traditional Markets
Available fresh from local markets
such as Gwangjang Market (광장시장) in Seoul. - Online Stores
Many Korean dessert brands sell
packaged Injeolmi on e-commerce sites.
7.2 Best Cafés and Bakeries for Injeolmi Desserts
If you’re visiting Korea,
check out these famous places
- Sulbing (설빙)
A Korean dessert café famous for Injeolmi Bingsu. - Osulloc Tea House (오설록)
Offers Injeolmi-inspired matcha desserts. - Hannam Boulangerie (한남불랑제리)
Known for its Injeolmi croissants.
Injeolmi is more than just a rice cake,
it is a symbol of heritage, tradition,
and culinary creativity.
Whether you enjoy the classic version
or a modern fusion dessert,
Injeolmi continues to be a beloved staple
in Korean cuisine.
If you haven't tried it yet,
now is the perfect time to experience
its chewy, nutty goodness!