Description
Hobak Beombeok (Korean Squash, Sweet Potato, and Bean Porridge) is a traditional Korean comfort food that combines the natural sweetness of Korean squash and sweet potatoes with the creamy texture of red or mung beans. This wholesome, nutritious porridge is easy to digest, naturally sweetened without added sugars, and perfect for any time of day as a filling breakfast, light meal, or comforting snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium Korean squash (hobak), peeled and diced
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup red beans or mung beans, rinsed and soaked for 3–8 hours
- 4–5 cups water or vegetable broth
- A pinch of salt
Optional Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons sweet rice flour (to thicken, if desired)
- 1–2 teaspoons honey or brown sugar (for extra sweetness, optional)
Suggested Garnishes
- Chopped toasted nuts
- Black sesame seeds
- Roasted sesame oil drizzle
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Peel and dice the Korean squash and sweet potatoes into small, even pieces to ensure even cooking. Rinse the beans thoroughly and soak them in water for several hours or overnight to soften and reduce cooking time.
- Cook the Beans: Drain the soaked beans and place them in a pot with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until the beans are tender but not mushy.
- Add the Squash and Sweet Potatoes: Once the beans are soft, add the diced Korean squash and sweet potatoes to the pot. Continue simmering gently until the vegetables are soft and start to break down, releasing their natural sweetness into the porridge.
- Blend or Mash: For a creamy texture, mash the mixture gently with a wooden spoon or partially blend it, leaving some chunks for texture. If you prefer a thinner porridge, gradually stir in additional water or broth until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Season and Sweeten: Add a pinch of salt to balance the natural sweetness. If preferred, stir in honey or brown sugar for additional sweetness, though this is usually unnecessary.
- Simmer and Serve: Let the porridge simmer on low heat for a few more minutes to meld the flavors. Serve warm for the most comforting experience, optionally garnished with toasted nuts, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sesame oil.
Notes
- Use Korean squash for authentic flavor; small pumpkins or zucchini can be substituted.
- Always soak beans before cooking to reduce time and improve texture.
- Adjust liquid gradually to control porridge thickness according to preference.
- Cook on low heat to avoid burning and allow flavors to meld properly.
- Best served fresh and warm for optimal taste and comfort.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 3-8 hours soaking time)
- Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 240 ml)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g (natural sugars from squash and sweet potato)
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg