Tteokbokki Recipe

Name: Tteokbokki Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 300 g Korean rice cakes (tteok); 1 cup water; 3 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes); 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1/2 cup fish cakes (sliced); 2 green onions (chopped); 1 boiled egg (optional); Sesame seeds for garnish

Tteokbokki is a beloved Korean street food that combines chewy rice cakes with a sweet and spicy sauce, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds. This dish is not only flavorful but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with various ingredients. Perfect as a snack or a main course, tteokbokki is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will bring the tastes of Korea to your kitchen!

Ingredients

– 300g Korean rice cakes (tteok)
– 1 cup water
– 3 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1/2 cup fish cakes, sliced
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 1 boiled egg (optional)
– Sesame seeds for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/2 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 10g
– Fat: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 70g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on a serving size for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Soak the rice cakes in warm water for about 30 minutes if they are hard.
2. In a pan, combine water, gochujang, gochugaru, sugar, and soy sauce.
3. Stir the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a gentle boil.
4. Add the soaked rice cakes to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
5. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the rice cakes start to soften.
6. Add the fish cakes and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes.
7. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
8. Once the sauce thickens and clings to the rice cakes, remove from heat.
9. Stir in chopped green onions and mix well.
10. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and a boiled egg if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute Korean rice cakes with rice noodles or use vegetables like cabbage or carrots for a healthier twist. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the fish cakes and use vegetable broth instead of water.

Serving and Pairings

Tteokbokki is best served hot, often accompanied by Korean fried chicken or kimbap. It can also be enjoyed with a side of pickled radish for a refreshing contrast.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Tteokbokki can be frozen, but the texture of the rice cakes may change upon thawing.

Cooking Mistakes

– Avoid overcooking the rice cakes, as they can become too soft.
– Ensure the sauce is not too thick; add water if necessary.
– Don’t skip soaking the rice cakes if they’re hard.
– Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
– Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Helpful Tips

– Use a non-stick pan for easier cooking.
– Experiment with toppings like cheese or boiled eggs.
– Adjust spice levels by modifying gochugaru.
– Serve immediately for the best texture.

FAQs

What is tteokbokki?

Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food made with chewy rice cakes and a spicy-sweet sauce, often enjoyed as a snack or street food dish.

Can I make tteokbokki vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting fish cakes and using vegetable broth instead of water in the sauce.

How spicy is tteokbokki?

The spice level can vary depending on the amount of gochugaru used. You can adjust it to your preference or use less for a milder flavor.

Can I add other ingredients to tteokbokki?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots or cabbage, or proteins like chicken or tofu for added flavor and nutrition.

How should I store leftover tteokbokki?

Store leftover tteokbokki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop with a bit of water to restore moisture.

Conclusion

Tteokbokki is a delicious and versatile dish that brings the flavors of Korea right to your kitchen. With its chewy texture and rich sauce, it’s a perfect comfort food that can be enjoyed any time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is simple to follow and sure to impress. Enjoy your homemade tteokbokki!