Songpyeon

Ingredients

• Glutinous rice flour (2 cups)
• Water (3/4 cup (adjust as needed))
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
• Sugar (1/4 cup (for filling))
• Ground sesame seeds (1/2 cup)
• Sesame oil (1 tablespoon (for tossing))
• Pine needles (a handful (for steaming))

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, salt, and water. Mix until a smooth dough forms, adjusting water as necessary for consistency.
2. Divide the dough into small pieces, approximately the size of a golf ball, and shape each piece into a ball.
3. Flatten each ball into a disc and fill it with a mixture of ground sesame seeds and sugar. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges to seal.
4. Prepare a steamer by lining it with a layer of fresh pine needles to impart a fragrant aroma to the songpyeon.
5. Arrange the shaped songpyeon in the steamer, ensuring they do not touch each other to prevent sticking.
6. Steam the songpyeon over high heat for about 30 minutes, or until they become translucent and firm.
7. Once steamed, remove the songpyeon from the steamer and immediately toss them in sesame oil to prevent sticking.
8. Serve the songpyeon warm or let them cool to room temperature before enjoying.