Sweet & Healthy Pumpkin Porridge (Bam Hobak Juk)
Sweet & Healthy Pumpkin Porridge (Bam Hobak Juk)
Nature’s Sweetness: ‘Healthy Pumpkin Porridge’ Recipe
Experience the pure, natural sweetness of pumpkin with this healthy porridge (Bam Hobak Juk). This recipe highlights the inherent sweetness of the main ingredient, requiring only a pinch of rock salt (jukyeom) to enhance its delicious flavor without needing any added sweeteners. Enjoy this wholesome and delightful dish, bursting with the pure taste of nature.
Ingredients- 2 Korean mini pumpkins (Bam Hobak)
- 1/2 cup glutinous rice, soaked (using a paper cup for measurement)
- 0.5 tsp rock salt (Jukyeom)
- A few pine nuts (for garnish)
- Water, as needed
- A little fresh herb leaf (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Wash the Korean mini pumpkins thoroughly. Turn them upside down and make an incision at the stem end to cut them in half. Scoop out and discard the seeds.
Step 2
Place the prepared pumpkin halves into a zip-top bag or a microwave-safe bowl.
Step 3
Microwave for about 3 minutes to lightly cook the pumpkin. Adjust the time based on your microwave’s wattage.
Step 4
Once slightly cooled, peel the skin off the pumpkin. It should come off easily since it’s been partially cooked.
Step 5
Rinse the glutinous rice until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for about 30 minutes.
Step 6
Cut the peeled pumpkin into small, bite-sized pieces.
Step 7
Transfer the chopped pumpkin to a pot. Add just enough water to cover the pumpkin pieces; avoid adding too much water.
Step 8
Cover the pot with a lid and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the pumpkin is very soft.
Step 9
Drain the soaked glutinous rice from the water.
Step 10
In a blender, combine the soaked glutinous rice and 1 paper cup of water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 11
Add the cooked pumpkin pieces to the blender and blend them together with the rice mixture until very smooth.
Step 12
Pour the blended pumpkin and rice mixture back into the pot. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly once it begins to bubble.
Step 13
Pour in the blended glutinous rice mixture.
Step 14
Continue to stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes. This is where you can adjust the consistency to your liking. The porridge can thicken quickly, so it’s best to start with a slightly thinner consistency. Stirring constantly will help you achieve the desired thickness.
Step 15
When you see bubbles forming on the surface of the porridge, it’s almost ready.
Step 16
Add the rock salt (Jukyeom) to taste.
Step 17
Stir well after adding the salt, then turn off the heat. Be careful not to overcook, as the color of the pumpkin might change.
Step 18
Ladle the finished pumpkin porridge into a serving bowl.
Step 19
Garnish with a fresh herb leaf in the center for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy your delicious and healthy pumpkin porridge!
