Introduction
Tteokbokki is a beloved Korean dish known for its chewy rice cakes (tteok) coated in a spicy and sweet sauce made from gochujang (Korean chili paste). This street food favorite often includes fish cakes, boiled eggs, and various vegetables, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal or snack. Traditionally sold by street vendors, tteokbokki has become a staple in Korean cuisine, loved for its bold flavors and comforting texture. It can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even a main dish, often paired with drinks.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) Korean rice cakes (tteok)
- 2 cups water or dashi (broth)
- 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 cup fish cakes, sliced (optional)
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 hard-boiled egg (optional, for serving)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Rice Cakes:
- If using refrigerated rice cakes, soak them in warm water for about 10-15 minutes to soften. If using frozen rice cakes, thaw them before use.
-
Make the Sauce:
- In a large pan, combine the water (or dashi), gochujang, gochugaru, sugar, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir until well combined.
-
Cook the Rice Cakes:
- Add the softened rice cakes to the pan and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the rice cakes become tender.
-
Add Fish Cakes and Green Onions:
- Stir in the sliced fish cakes and chopped green onions. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until heated through and well combined.
-
Serve:
- Transfer the tteokbokki to a serving plate. If desired, top with a halved hard-boiled egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds for garnish.
Health Notes
- Tteokbokki can be high in calories and sodium, especially when made with fish cakes and additional sauces. To make a healthier version, consider using less sugar, reducing sodium in sauces, and incorporating more vegetables like cabbage or carrots. You can also add protein-rich ingredients such as tofu for a nutritious boost.
How to Enjoy
- Tteokbokki is best enjoyed hot and fresh. It can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish. Pair it with Korean beverages like sweet rice drink (sikhye) or soju for an authentic experience.
Tips
- Adjusting Spice Level: Modify the amount of gochujang and gochugaru to suit your spice preference. Start with less if you're unsure and gradually increase to taste.
- Customizing Ingredients: Feel free to add other ingredients such as cabbage, carrots, or even mozzarella cheese for a cheesy twist. Some people also enjoy adding ramen noodles for a heartier meal.
- Leftover Storage: Tteokbokki is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to restore moisture.
