Introduction
Tteokbokki (떡볶이) is a beloved Korean street food, known for its chewy rice cakes drenched in a spicy, sweet, and savory sauce. Originating from Korea, this dish has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts around the world. Whether you’ve tasted it at a bustling street stall in Seoul or are just discovering it, making Tteokbokki at home is easier than you might think. This recipe will guide you through creating an authentic version of this classic dish, right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
To make Tteokbokki, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Rice Cakes (Tteokbokki Tteok): 1 pound (450g), fresh or frozen
- Fish Cakes (Eomuk): 4-5 sheets, sliced into strips
- Gochujang (Korean Red Chili Paste): 2-3 tablespoons
- Gochugaru (Korean Red Chili Flakes): 1 tablespoon (adjust to taste)
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Green Onions: 2 stalks, chopped
- Water: 2 cups
- Boiled Eggs: 2 (optional)
- Sesame Seeds: for garnish
- Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice Cakes:
- If you’re using frozen rice cakes, soak them in warm water for about 10-15 minutes to soften. Fresh rice cakes can be used directly without soaking.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a large pan, combine water, gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, sugar, and minced garlic. Stir the mixture well to dissolve the gochujang and bring it to a gentle boil.
- Cook the Tteokbokki:
- Add the softened rice cakes and fish cakes to the sauce. Stir frequently to ensure the rice cakes are evenly coated in the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the rice cakes are soft and chewy, and the sauce has thickened.
- Add the Final Touches:
- Toss in the chopped green onions and continue cooking for another 2 minutes. If you’re using boiled eggs, add them at this stage, allowing them to absorb some of the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove the pan from heat. Drizzle with a bit of sesame oil, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve hot.
Tips for the Perfect Tteokbokki
- Adjust the spice level: Tteokbokki is known for its spiciness, but you can adjust the heat by reducing the amount of gochugaru or using a milder gochujang.
- Add variety: While fish cakes are traditional, feel free to add other ingredients like ramen noodles, vegetables, or even cheese for a modern twist.
- Consistency is key: The sauce should be thick enough to cling to the rice cakes but not too dry. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade Tteokbokki recipe offers an authentic taste of Korea’s vibrant street food culture. The combination of chewy rice cakes, spicy-sweet sauce, and savory fish cakes creates a harmony of flavors that’s utterly satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a quick snack or a hearty meal, Tteokbokki is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Enjoy this spicy Korean delight that’s easy to prepare and even easier to devour!
