ANN/THE KOREA HERALD – In the build-up to the Korean autumn harvest festival Chuseok, many look forward to indulging in a variety of delectable and substantial dishes.
While food plays a pivotal role in Korea’s principal traditional celebrations, it is crucial to recognise that these flavourful offerings frequently possess a high caloric content.
Indeed, many of these small, savoury treats contain more calories than a serving of plain white rice.
For those mindful of their health, gaining insight into the nutritional values of these cherished Chuseok foods may facilitate a more health-conscious approach to the festivities.
Here’s a look at the calorie content of some Chuseok staples:
SONGPYEON (HALF-MOON-SHAPED STUFFED RICE CAKES)
Don’t let the small size fool you. Songpyeon, made of rice flour and stuffed with sweet fillings such as ground sesame seeds, red bean paste or chestnut, pack around 60-90 calories depending on the size and filling.
Eating just four to five songpyeon can quickly add up to 300-400 calories, equivalent to a bowl of white rice.
JEON (PAN-FRIED FRITTERS)
Jeon, a variety of fritters and savoury pancakes made with ingredients like seafood, vegetables and meat, is a holiday staple.
Dipped in a flour and egg batter and pan-fried in oil, these finger-sized pieces contain 60-120 calories depending on their ingredients and size.
GALBIJJIM (BRAISED SHORT RIBS)
Galbijjim is a traditional Korean dish featuring tender braised beef short ribs in a rich and flavourful sauce, seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic and ginger.
Typically served on traditional holidays or to celebrate special occasions, this beef stew contains about 400-600 calories for a typical serving of 250 grammes.
JAPCHAE (STIR-FRIED GLASS NOODLES)
Japchae is made from sweet potato glass noodles, mixed with stir-fried shredded vegetables, thinly sliced meat and mushrooms.
This veggie-packed dish is considered relatively healthy. One serving, about 200 grammes, of japchae contains 200-300 calories.
YAKGWA (HONEY-GLAZED COOKIE)
Yakgwa is a traditional honey-glazed cookie that has commonly been used for ancestral rites and enjoyed during festive occasions.
This old-fashioned treat has recently seen a resurgence in popularity thanks to social media.
Made with wheat flour, honey, sesame oil and ginger juice, and soaked in a mixture of rice syrup and honey, these deep-fried cookies are calorie-dense.
A single, bite-sized yakgwa is around 200 calories, which can easily add up to a substantial calorie count.
