Tteokbokki is widely recognized as one of Korea's most symbolic street foods, showcasing soft, chewy rice cakes cooked in an irresistible, sweet, tangy, and piquant sauce.
By following a few useful guidelines, mastering the preparation of this dish can be achieved effortlessly. It is ideal for sharing and relishing together.
Known for its sweetness, spiciness, and sauciness, tteokbokki has become a popular snack globally. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a dish worth experimenting with. So, why delay? Tteokbokki unquestionably deserves a place on your menu!
What is Tteokbokki?
Tteokbokki, also known as spicy Korean rice cakes, is a well-loved delicacy enjoyed both as street fare and as a comforting meal at home. The term translates to "stir-fried rice cakes" (where ‘tteok’ stands for rice cake, and ‘bokki’ refers to fried). Typically, this dish includes cylindrical rice cakes simmered in a flavorful and spicy sauce.
Spicy rice cake (Tteokbokki: 떡볶이)
Video by Maangchi
How to Prepare Tteokbokki
Soften the Rice Cakes
Commence by soaking the rice cakes in warm water to soften them and remove any lumps.
Create the Sauce
Mix gochujang (Korean chili paste), gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), soy sauce, sugar, and minced garlic in a small bowl to craft the tasty sauce.
Simmer the Ingredients
Incorporate the sauce into a bowl of anchovy stock and bring it to a simmer. Add the rice cakes and cook until the sauce thickens, and the rice cakes become tender and chewy.
Final Touch and Serving
Drizzle with toasted sesame oil, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, and adorn with sliced scallions. Serve warm and indulge in the flavors!
The Taste Profile
Tteokbokki offers a delightful fusion of sweet, spicy, and savory tastes. The chewy rice cakes are akin to a savory mochi or gnocchi, absorbing the sauce to impart a burst of flavors. Many variations include extras like fish cakes or boiled eggs, enriching the dish with additional protein and flavor.
Essential Ingredients
Rice Cakes: Korean cylindrical rice cakes, available fresh, chilled, or frozen at Korean grocery stores, are indispensable. Fresh rice cakes lend the finest texture, but packaged alternatives work equally well.
Anchovy Stock: Similar to Japanese dashi, this stock is essential for enhancing the depth of flavor. It can be prepared using dried anchovies and kelp or by steeping pre-made stock packets.
Tteokbokki Sauce: The sauce blends gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, sugar, and garlic for a blend of spiciness, sweetness, and savory richness.
Supplementary Additions: Korean fish cakes, toasted sesame oil, scallions, and toasted sesame seeds add depth of texture and flavor to the dish.
Storage and Reheating
Tteokbokki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently simmer it in a pan with a small amount of water or dashi over low heat or microwave it with a splash of water added to the sauce.
Recommended Complements
Korean fried chicken
Homemade Korean BBQ
Korean corn dogs
Spicy tofu stew (sundubu jjigae)
With its irresistible flavors and straightforward preparation, tteokbokki is a dish that consistently leaves a lasting impression.
