- What Makes Hobak-juk Naturally Vegan?
- Easy 20-Min Vegan Pumpkin Juk Recipe
- Tips for Extra Creaminess & Storage
Hobak-juk is one of those dishes that remind me why Korean cuisine is naturally perfect for plant-based eating. Unlike many porridges that require dairy or broth, this porridge becomes beautifully creamy with just pumpkin and rice. As someone who cooks vegan Korean recipes often, I was surprised how quick and satisfying this version turned out. Let me walk you through the exact steps I use at home!
What Makes Hobak-juk Naturally Vegan?
Korean pumpkin porridge is naturally vegan because the traditional base uses:
- Kabocha pumpkin (Korean hobak)
- Rice or rice flour for thickening
- Water instead of broth
- Sugar or sweetener for mild sweetness
No dairy, no cream, no animal broth—yet the texture becomes naturally silky and rich. This makes Hobak-juk one of the easiest authentic Korean dishes to veganize without any substitution.
🥣 Try Another Mild & Comforting Vegan Dish: White KimchiEasy 20-Min Vegan Pumpkin Juk Recipe
Here’s the quick method I rely on when I want a warm bowl fast:
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked kabocha pumpkin (steamed or microwaved)
- 1 cup water (adjust thickness as desired)
- 1–2 tbsp rice flour or blended cooked rice
- 1–2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup
- Salt (a pinch to balance sweetness)
Step 1. Blend steamed pumpkin with water until smooth.
Step 2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil in a pot.
Step 3. Stir in rice flour (or blended rice) to thicken.
Step 4. Add sugar and a pinch of salt.
Step 5. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until silky.
🍚 Complete Your Meal with Vegan BibimbapTips for Extra Creaminess & Storage
To make your pumpkin porridge even creamier and easier to store, try these tips:
- Use kabocha pumpkin—it’s naturally sweeter and creamier.
- Add 1 tbsp coconut milk for a richer vegan twist.
- Cook longer on low heat for deeper flavor.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Freeze in small portions for quick breakfast meal-prep.
FAQ
Q1. Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh kabocha?
Yes, but kabocha pumpkin gives a sweeter and thicker texture.
Q2. Is rice flour necessary?
No—blended cooked rice works perfectly as a natural thickener.
Q3. Can I make this sugar-free?
Yes, simply skip the sweetener or use monk fruit syrup for a natural option.
Q4. Does Hobak-juk keep well?
It stays fresh for 3 days refrigerated, or up to 2 months frozen.
Q5. How do I reheat it?
Add a little water while reheating to restore the creamy texture.
💬 If this recipe was helpful, tap the ❤️ and feel free to leave your questions in the comments!
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