What's in it
Red beans, glutinous rice balls.
More about Red Bean Porridge
On Dongji, around December 22, families eat patjuk because the red colour was traditionally believed to chase away bad spirits. Some people count the rice balls (saealsim) to match their age. A version with noodles instead of rice balls is called pat-kalguksu.
Good to know
Some people eat it with sugar, others with salt.
Special diets and allergies
- Vegetarian: usually yes.
- Vegan: possibly — check for egg, dairy and honey.
- Pork: usually pork-free.
Recipes vary between restaurants. If an ingredient matters to you, ask before you order — or show a diet card.
Quick answers
What is red bean porridge?
Red bean porridge with chewy rice balls, traditionally eaten on the winter solstice (Dongji).
Is red bean porridge spicy?
No — it is not spicy.
Is red bean porridge vegetarian?
Usually yes.
Does red bean porridge contain pork?
Usually pork-free.
What is red bean porridge called in Korean?
팥죽, pronounced “patjuk”.