Mulyeot (물엿), or Korean cooking syrup, is a clear and thick sweetener essential in Korean cuisine for adding a glossy finish and subtle sweetness to dishes. Made from corn starch, this versatile syrup has a milder sweetness than sugar and a smooth, viscous texture that helps bind sauces and glazes without crystallizing. It is a key ingredient for creating the characteristic sheen on braised dishes like dakgangjeong (sweet crispy chicken) or for balancing flavours in marinades and stir-fries. To use, simply add a spoonful to your favourite Korean BBQ marinade or drizzle over tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) in the final stages of cooking for a beautiful glaze. This syrup is a staple in any Korean pantry, perfect for home cooks looking to replicate authentic flavours and textures in their cooking. It is a fundamental component for anyone serious about Korean cuisine.