This tteokbokki recipe features chewy rice cakes in a spicy, savory sauce—a popular Korean street food that is easy to make at home. The combination of gochujang (Korean red chili paste), soy sauce, and garlic creates a mouthwatering sauce that coats the rice cakes, delivering bold flavors in every bite. Whether you’re new to Korean cuisine or a long-time fan, this tteokbokki recipe is a must-try for a delicious and comforting snack or meal.
Ingredients:
Ingredients for the tteokbokki recipe:
- 1 lb Korean rice cakes (tteok)
- 2 cups water or dashi stock
- 3 tbsp gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 boiled egg, optional for serving
Execution
Step-by-Step Method for the tteokbokki recipe:
- Prepare the rice cakes: If using refrigerated or frozen rice cakes, soak them in warm water for about 10-15 minutes to soften. Drain and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In a large pan, add the water (or dashi stock), gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, sugar, and minced garlic. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook the rice cakes: Add the softened rice cakes to the pan and stir to coat them in the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the rice cakes are tender.
- Add green onions: Stir in the chopped green onions and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the tteokbokki hot, topped with boiled eggs if desired. Enjoy as a snack or meal!
Tips:
For the best tteokbokki recipe:
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of gochujang and gochugaru in the recipe. You can also add a little more sugar to balance the heat.
- Use fresh rice cakes: Fresh tteok is the best option for this recipe, but if using frozen or refrigerated rice cakes, be sure to soak them in warm water to soften before cooking.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, you can add fish cakes, sliced sausages, or tofu to the tteokbokki.
- Customize with veggies: You can also add vegetables like cabbage, carrots, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
FAQs:
- Can I make tteokbokki ahead of time? It’s best to serve tteokbokki fresh while the rice cakes are still chewy. If you need to reheat leftovers, add a splash of water to the pan to help rehydrate the rice cakes.
- Can I freeze tteokbokki? While the sauce freezes well, the texture of the rice cakes may change after freezing. It’s recommended to eat tteokbokki fresh.
- What can I serve with tteokbokki? Tteokbokki pairs well with other Korean dishes like kimchi, fried dumplings, or a side of steamed rice.
- Where can I buy Korean rice cakes? You can find tteok at most Asian grocery stores or order them online from Korean specialty retailers.
