Rice Puff

Disclaimer:
While it might be called «boong oh bbang,» this fish shaped pastry is «Taiyaki.» This is Japanese sweets originated in 1909 in Edo. (Tokyo)
It is also not carp originally. This supposed to be Sea Bream (or Snapper) shape. Tai in Japanese is Sea Bream, yaki is «to roast or cook through flame.»
I’m just sayin’…ya know.

i’m sure some of you have passed by this Rice Puff Cart in the food court at H mart and thought to yourself, «what an odd place to sell Styrofoam Frisbees?» or «I wonder what that guy is making with that cast iron fish mold? … toys?»
don’t deny it.
these are actually wonderfully edible & have been a popular snack food in korea for ages. the white Styrofoam disk looking things are actually rice puffs and they are puffed on site, so it’s always fresh and crispy! there are usually samples in front so try some! ok, so it may taste like Styrofoam at first b/​c they lack a distinct flavor, but you’ll eventually discover their unique taste after inhaling 2 – 3 of them. they’re fun, too! i like chewing off the edges and making fun shapes. boys, v day is coming up~ woo your girl by carving out a heart shaped rice puff with your teeth. cute! $ 2 for a bag.
they also make boong oh bbang. it’s the ultimate street cart snack pastry in korea. they’re shaped like fish (carp) and made from flour batter and filled with sweet red bean. warm, chewy, w/​crispy edges, & just the right amoutn of sweetness~ it’s amazing on cold days! it’s made right in front of you. takes about 5 – 10 minutes so you can place an order and do some shopping if you don’t want to wait. eat it while it’s hot! $ 5 for 4 fish. (view picture)
this is a separate business from H mart and they only take CASH.
P. S. the rice puffs will get a little soft after a couple days, but you can make them nice and crispy again by popping them in the microwave for 10 seconds.
enjoy!