1(mimetic) Describes starchy foods such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, squash, pies, and steamed buns that are freshly baked or steamed and have a soft, fluffy, crumbly texture. In food writing, menus, and packaging, it is typically written in katakana as ホクホク to emphasize texture.
冬の夜店で買った焼き芋は、皮をむくとホクホクの黄金色の実が現れた。
When I peeled the roasted sweet potato I bought at a winter street stall, the golden flesh inside was fluffy and piping hot.
新じゃがを蒸してバターをのせただけで、ホクホクのごちそうになる。
Just steaming new potatoes and topping them with butter turns them into a fluffy, mouthwatering treat.
寒い日に頬張る肉まんは、中身がホクホクで体の芯まで温まる。
A meat bun bitten into on a cold day has a fluffy, warm filling that heats you from the inside.
このかぼちゃの煮物はホクホクしていて、口の中でほろほろと崩れる。
This simmered pumpkin is so fluffy that it crumbles softly in your mouth.
2(mimetic) Describes a quiet, self-satisfied delight — the inward pleasure of things going one's way, often accompanied by a hint of a smile. Frequently used when someone has gained something concrete (money, good fortune), with a slightly humorous tone. Typically written in hiragana.
ボーナスが予想より多くて、父は一日中ほくほく顔をしていた。
The bonus was bigger than expected, so Dad had a pleased grin on his face all day.
値上がり前に株を売った友人は、利益を手にしてほくほくしていた。
My friend, who sold the stock before it went up, was quietly gloating over the profit.
息子の合格通知を見た母は、朝からほくほくと機嫌がよい。
Ever since seeing her son's acceptance letter this morning, Mom has been beaming with quiet delight.