Hangwa

A hangwa is a Korean traditional cookie. Hangwa includes Yumilgwa Yugwa, Dasik Dasik and Yeot Gangjeong. Hangwa is also called Jogwa since it is made of diverse grains and looks like fruits. 

 Origin 
Hangwa was very popular among people over the Shilla and Goryeo because the yield of grains had went up a lot and people tried not to eat meat for religious reasons. The religion at that time was Buddhism. Since then, Hangwa has become necessary in wedding ceremonies, memorial sacrifice days, and social dinners.

 Types of Hangwa 
The basic materials of Hangwa are mostly natural and based on the materials Hangwa is primarily divided into seven kinds and the recipes are slightly different.

 Types  Names  Materials Yugwa  Gangjeong, Sanja, Yohwagwa  Rice, Sesame, Black Sesame Dasik  Songhwa Dasik, Saeng-gang Dasik, Nongmal Dasik  Rice, Starch, Ginger Yeot Gangjeong  DDang-kong Yeot Gangjeong, KKae Yeot Gangjeong  Rice, Peanut, Sesame

 Characteristics 
Hangwa does not go bad easily because it is very good at preservation. This comes from the fermentation of grains and use of honey. Also, Hangwa is very nutritious. Ancestors thought that food was natural medicine and the idea was reflected on the nutrition of Hangwa too. Also, Hangwa shows Korean traditional virtue and emotions. It represents the warmth of neighbors. In ancient times, when people had ceremonies or social meetings, they made their guest go back with some food, which was mostly Tteok and Hangwa. In other words, Hangwa talks about the kindness and the affection between people in Korea.

 References 
한과의 디저트 상품화를 위한 브랜드아이덴티티 디자인 개발 연구
International Strategy of Rice Cake and Korean Traditional Cookie

 Other websites 

 What is Hangwa
 The origin of Hangwa 

Category:Korean food