Tteokbokki (Spicy Korean Rice Cakes)

Short Description

Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food dish featuring chewy rice cakes simmered in a bold, spicy-sweet gochujang sauce. This comforting and flavorful dish is quick to make and packed with umami-rich ingredients. Serve it as a snack, appetizer, or a full meal with add-ins like fish cakes, boiled eggs, and green onions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Korean flavors – The perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory.
• Easy to make – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Chewy and satisfying – Korean rice cakes (tteok) have a unique, delightful texture.
• Customizable – Add fish cakes, ramen noodles, cheese, or vegetables.
• Great comfort food – Warm, spicy, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Tteokbokki Sauce:

• Gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
• Gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes, optional for extra heat)
• Soy sauce
• Sugar (brown or white)
• Garlic (minced)
• Fish sauce (optional for umami)
• Dashi stock or water

For the Tteokbokki:

• Korean rice cakes (tteok) – fresh or frozen
• Fish cakes (optional, sliced)
• Boiled eggs (optional, peeled)
• Green onions (chopped)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Mozzarella cheese (optional for a cheesy version)

Directions

1. Prepare the rice cakes – If using frozen rice cakes, soak them in warm water for 10-15 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the sauce – In a pot, mix dashi stock (or water) with gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and fish sauce. Stir well.
3. Simmer the sauce – Bring the sauce to a boil over medium heat.
4. Add the rice cakes and fish cakes – Stir in the rice cakes and let them simmer for about 8-10 minutes until soft and chewy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Add boiled eggs and green onions – Let them absorb the sauce for extra flavor.
6. Melt cheese (optional) – If adding mozzarella, sprinkle it over the tteokbokki and let it melt.
7. Garnish and serve – Sprinkle with sesame seeds and extra green onions. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Tteokbokki – Add mozzarella for a creamy, cheesy version.
• Ramen Tteokbokki – Stir in cooked instant ramen noodles.
• Vegetable version – Add mushrooms, cabbage, or carrots.
• Seafood Tteokbokki – Include shrimp or squid for extra umami.
• Mild version – Reduce gochujang and omit gochugaru for a less spicy dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pan with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as rice cakes can become too hard when frozen.

FAQs

Can I make Tteokbokki less spicy?

Yes! Reduce gochujang and skip gochugaru for a milder version.

What if I don’t have dashi stock?

Use water or low-sodium chicken broth instead.

Can I use different types of rice cakes?

Yes! Cylindrical or sliced rice cakes both work well.

How do I keep rice cakes from getting too soft?

Don’t overcook them—simmer just until tender.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Use vegetable broth instead of dashi and omit fish sauce.

What can I serve with Tteokbokki?

Pair it with kimbap, kimchi, or a Korean-style omelet.

Can I cook Tteokbokki in advance?

Yes, but reheat with extra liquid to maintain the sauce consistency.

Is Tteokbokki gluten-free?

Check your gochujang and soy sauce for gluten-free versions.

How do I make Tteokbokki extra saucy?

Add more stock or water for a thinner sauce.

Can I add protein?

Yes! Sliced beef, tofu, or an extra egg work great in this dish.

Conclusion

Tteokbokki is a deliciously spicy and satisfying dish that’s easy to make at home. With chewy rice cakes, a bold gochujang sauce, and endless customization options, this Korean comfort food is perfect for any occasion. Try it today for a quick and flavorful meal!

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