Korean pastries represent the sweet side of Korea's vibrant street food culture,
offering delightful treats that are as visually charming as they are delicious. At
Sso Yummy, we proudly serve two of Korea's most beloved pastry traditions: Boong
Uh Bbang (literally "carp bread") and Hodo Gwaja ("walnut cookies" or "walnut cakes").
Both are freshly made using traditional recipes and quality ingredients, bringing
authentic Korean dessert culture to Calgary.
These pastries have been enjoyed by generations of Koreans, from children walking
home from school to adults seeking a nostalgic treat. They're the perfect balance of
textures — crispy, golden exteriors give way to soft, warm fillings that burst with
flavor. Whether you choose the classic sweetness of red bean (pat) or the creamy
richness of custard, our Korean pastries deliver an irresistible taste experience
that will transport you to the bustling streets of Seoul.
What Makes Our Korean Pastries Special
- Two classic varieties: Boong Uh Bbang (fish-shaped) and Hodo Gwaja (walnut-shaped)
- Two delicious filling options: sweet red bean (pat) or rich custard (cream)
- Freshly made to ensure the perfect crispy exterior and warm, gooey interior
- Made with quality ingredients following traditional Korean recipes
- Cute, Instagram-worthy shapes that are fun for all ages
- Perfect as a dessert, snack, or sweet addition to any meal
Our Pastry Varieties
Boong Uh Bbang (붕어빵) — Fish-Shaped Pastry: These adorable
fish-shaped waffles are one of Korea's most iconic street foods. The name literally
means "carp bread," named after the common carp that the pastry resembles. Despite
the fish shape, there's nothing fishy about the taste! Each Boong Uh Bbang is made
from a light, slightly sweet batter that's poured into a special fish-shaped mold
and cooked until golden brown. The result is a crispy exterior with a soft, cake-like
interior that encases your choice of filling. They're warm, comforting, and utterly
addictive.
Hodo Gwaja (호두과자) — Walnut-Shaped Pastry: These charming
walnut-shaped cakes are another Korean street food favorite. "Hodo" means walnut,
and "gwaja" means cookie or pastry. Each Hodo Gwaja is shaped like a miniature
walnut, complete with realistic-looking shell texture on the outside. The pastry
itself is slightly firmer than Boong Uh Bbang, with a pleasant bite that gives way
to a creamy filling. They're smaller than the fish-shaped pastries, making them
perfect for snacking or sharing.
Filling Options: Red Bean or Custard
Pat (Sweet Red Bean): The traditional filling for Korean pastries,
sweet red bean paste is made from azuki beans that are cooked down with sugar until
they become a smooth, sweet paste. Don't let the "bean" description fool you — this
filling is sweet, creamy, and utterly delicious, similar in concept to chocolate
spread or fruit preserves. It's a staple of Korean desserts and the classic choice
for those seeking an authentic experience.
Custard (Cream): For those who prefer a more familiar Western-style
flavor, our custard-filled pastries offer rich, creamy vanilla custard that oozes
out with every bite. The smooth, velvety custard provides a wonderful contrast to
the crispy pastry shell, creating a dessert experience that's both comforting and
indulgent. This option is especially popular with children and those new to Korean
pastries.
A Beloved Korean Tradition
Korean street food pastries are more than just desserts — they're a cherished part
of Korean culture and childhood memories. In Korea, you'll find vendors selling
Boong Uh Bbang and Hodo Gwaja on street corners, at festivals, and near schools,
filling the air with their irresistible aroma. For many Koreans, the smell of these
pastries brings back fond memories of childhood, family outings, and special
occasions.
These pastries are also associated with winter in Korea, when the warm, freshly-made
treats provide comfort against the cold. However, they're enjoyed year-round and have
become symbols of Korean street food culture worldwide. At Sso Yummy, we're proud to
bring this tradition to Calgary, allowing locals and visitors alike to experience
the joy of authentic Korean pastries.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Our Korean pastries are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them as a sweet snack any time
of day, serve them as dessert after a Korean meal, bring them to parties and
gatherings to share with friends, or order them alongside savory items like tteokbokki
or kimbap for a complete Korean street food experience. Their cute shapes also make
them popular for social media posts — don't forget to snap a photo before you take
your first bite!
