korean street toast

Korean Street Toast, also known as "Gilgeori Toast" (길거리 토스트), is a popular street food in South Korea. It originated in the bustling streets of cities like Seoul and Busan, where street vendors serve it as a quick and affordable breakfast option for busy commuters and students. The sandwich is known for its unique combination of savory and sweet flavors, with the addition of sugar adding a delightful twist to the usual toast and egg combination.

Makes 4 Sandwiches

Ingredients:

  • Bread and Fillings:

    • 8 slices of white bread
    • 4 slices of cheese (Easi single or any preferred cheese)
    • 4 slices of ham
    • Ketchup
    • Kewpie mayonnaise
    • Sugar
    • Butter

  • Omelette Mixture:

    • 80g white cabbage (finely shredded)
    • 1 carrot (finely shredded)
    • 1/2 small onion (finely sliced)
    • 1 spring onion (finely chopped)
    • 2 eggs
    • Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

  1. Prepare the Omelette Mixture:

    • In a bowl, mix together the finely shredded cabbage, carrot, sliced onion, chopped spring onion, and beaten eggs. Season with salt and pepper.
    • Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and add a small amount of butter. Pour 5 tablespoons of the mixture into the pan to form a small, thin omelette.
    • Cook the omelette for 2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining mixture.

  2. Toast the Bread:

    • In the same pan, add 1 teaspoon of butter. Place 2 slices of bread in the pan and toast on both sides until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining bread slices.

  3. Sear the Ham:

    • Add the ham slices to the pan and sear quickly on both sides until heated through.

  4. Assemble the Sandwiches:

    • Place a slice of toasted bread on a plate.
    • Add the cooked omelette on top of the bread.
    • Sprinkle a small amount of sugar over the omelette (about 1/2 teaspoon).
    • Layer a slice of ham over the omelette.
    • Place a slice of cheese on top of the ham.
    • Drizzle with ketchup and Kewpie mayonnaise.
    •  
    • Top with another slice of toasted bread.
    • Repeat to make the remaining sandwiches.

Serve immediately.

Shop Kewpie Mayonnaise

Personal Cooking Suggestions

  • Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the sandwich.
  • Bread: Opt for thick-sliced white bread for a more substantial and satisfying sandwich.
  • Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for varied flavors.
  • Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the omelette mixture for added nutrition.

Suggested Variations

  • Spicy Version: Add a few slices of jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the omelette mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Vegetarian: Substitute ham with avocado slices or grilled mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
  • Protein Boost: Add a slice of cooked bacon or a sausage patty for extra protein.

Cooking Tips and Tricks

  • Omelette: Make sure the omelette is thin and evenly cooked to fit well within the sandwich.
  • Toasting Bread: Toast the bread until it is just golden brown to avoid it becoming too hard.
  • Assembly: Assemble the sandwich while the ingredients are still hot to ensure the cheese melts slightly and the flavors meld together.

Pairing Suggestions

  • Beverages: Korean Street Toast pairs well with a hot cup of coffee, green tea, or a glass of cold milk.
  • Sides: Serve with a side of pickled radishes or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the sandwich.
  • Sauces: Offer additional sauces like Sriracha, honey mustard, or soy sauce for dipping.
Shop Range of Sauces

Enjoy this delicious and unique sandwich as a delightful breakfast or a satisfying snack any time of the day!