Sweet and Salty Sweet Potato Candies (Goguma Mattang)
Easy Recipe for Delicious Sweet and Salty Sweet Potato Candies
Rediscover the nostalgic taste of sweet potato candies, elevated with a delightful sweet and savory twist! Adding soy sauce and rice wine creates a rich, flavorful glaze that’s perfectly balanced with sweetness and a hint of saltiness. These crispy on the outside, tender on the inside treats are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Main Ingredients- 3 medium-sized sweet potatoes
- 3 Tbsp grain syrup (or corn syrup)
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp rice wine (mirin or cooking wine)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare your sweet potatoes. The tablespoon measurements are based on a standard Korean rice spoon.
Step 2
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly. You can peel them if you prefer, or leave the skin on. Cut them into bite-sized pieces, approximately 2 cm thick.
Step 3
Place the cut sweet potatoes in a plastic bag or a wide bowl. Add 3 tablespoons of cooking oil and shake or toss well to lightly coat the surface of the sweet potatoes. This step helps the sweet potatoes become crispier when cooked in the air fryer.
Step 4
Preheat your air fryer to 190°C (375°F). Add the oiled sweet potatoes and cook for 15 minutes. Flip them over halfway through, then reduce the temperature to 180°C (350°F) and cook for an additional 7 minutes. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your sweet potatoes and your air fryer’s specifications. It’s important to check for doneness by inserting a chopstick or fork; it should slide in smoothly when they are tender.
Step 5
The perfectly cooked sweet potatoes will have a beautiful golden-yellow hue. They should be slightly crispy on the outside and tender inside.
Step 6
Now, let’s make the delicious sweet and savory glaze. In a pan, combine 3 tablespoons of grain syrup (or corn syrup), 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons of rice wine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once the sauce begins to bubble, add the cooked sweet potatoes. Reduce the heat to low and quickly toss the sweet potatoes to coat them evenly with the glaze. Stir for about 1-2 minutes until glossy, being careful not to burn them.
Step 7
Tip: If you prefer a purely sweet version without the savory notes of soy sauce or rice wine, you can add 1 tablespoon of water to the sauce and simmer it. This will thin the sauce slightly, making it easier to coat the sweet potatoes evenly.
Step 8
Your delicious sweet and salty sweet potato candies are ready! For an extra touch, sprinkle some black sesame seeds on top for visual appeal and a nutty flavor. They are wonderful served warm right away, or enjoy their chewy texture as they cool.
