Step 1

First, prepare all the main ingredients for your Donggeurangttaeng. You’ll need 300g of ground pork, 1/4 Korean zucchini, 1/3 carrot, 1/3 onion, 1 block of firm tofu suitable for pan-frying, and 2 shiitake mushrooms. Lightly beat 2 eggs for the coating later.

⭐ TIP: When using ground pork, a simple seasoning of salt and pepper is sufficient to let the natural flavors shine.
⭐ TIP: Ensure you squeeze out as much water as possible from the tofu using cheesecloth or paper towels. This prevents the mixture from becoming too wet and helps the meatballs hold their shape nicely.

Step 2

Finely mince all the prepared vegetables: Korean zucchini, carrot, onion, and shiitake mushrooms. Using a kitchen tool like the ‘Yuhwaite Vegetable Slicer’ can be incredibly helpful here, allowing you to chop the vegetables quickly, evenly, and with minimal effort.

Step 3

Combine the ground pork, finely minced vegetables, and the well-squeezed tofu in a large bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and a pinch of pepper. Knead the mixture thoroughly with your hands until it becomes cohesive and slightly sticky. Proper kneading is key to ensuring the meatballs don’t fall apart during cooking.

Step 4

Now, add 1 tablespoon of ground sesame seeds (also referred to as ‘Yangsim Chamkkaepak’) to the mixture. Continue kneading until everything is well incorporated. The sesame seeds add a wonderful nutty aroma and enhance the overall flavor of the Donggeurangttaeng. Aim for a smooth, elastic texture.

Step 5

Take portions of the kneaded mixture and shape them into small, flattened rounds with your palms. Try to make them uniform in size for even cooking.

Step 6

Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a frying pan over medium-low heat. Dip each shaped meatball into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off. Carefully place the egg-coated meatballs into the preheated pan before the oil gets too hot. Cook them, turning occasionally, until golden brown on both sides. Be mindful of the heat to prevent burning; low and slow is the way to go for perfectly cooked interiors.

Step 7

Arrange the beautifully cooked Donggeurangttaeng on a serving plate. Enjoy them warm for a delightful taste of home-style Korean cuisine, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a delightful snack.