TTEOKBOKKI

Introduction

Tteokbokki is one of Korea’s most famous street foods, loved for its chewy rice cakes simmered in a spicy, sweet gochujang (red chili paste) sauce. Its bold and addictive flavor makes it a favorite for people of all ages, especially teenagers.

What makes tteokbokki even more fun is its versatility—you can easily adapt the recipe by adding extra ingredients like fish cakes, vegetables, or even ramen noodles to create your own variation. With just a few ingredients, you can make this popular dish at home and enjoy the comforting taste of Korea’s streets right from your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 200g Korean rice cakes (tteok) – Soak in water before cooking to soften.

• 100g fish cakes (eomuk) – Add savory depth to the dish.

• 50g cabbage – Adds sweetness and a crunchy texture.

• ½ onion – Brings natural sweetness.

• 1 green onion – Enhances flavor and aroma.

• 2 tbsp gochujang (red chili paste) – The key ingredient that gives tteokbokki its signature spicy flavor.

• 1 tbsp gochugaru (chili flakes) – Adjust to taste; adds heat and color.

• 1 tbsp sugar – Balances out the spiciness.

• 1 tbsp minced garlic – Deepens the flavor.

• 1 tbsp sesame oil – Adds nutty richness.

• Sesame seeds (optional) – Sprinkle on top before serving for extra aroma.

• 2 cups water – For making the sauce.

• Salt & pepper – To taste.

Instructions

1. Soak the rice cakes:
   Place the rice cakes in water for a few minutes to soften. This helps them cook evenly and stay chewy.

2. Prepare the ingredients:
   Cut fish cakes into bite-sized pieces, and slice the cabbage and onion thinly. Chop the green onion. Try to keep the sizes similar for even cooking.

3. Make the sauce:
   In a pan, mix water with gochujang, gochugaru, sugar, and garlic. Stir well until the sauce is smooth.

4. Cook the rice cakes and fish cakes:
   Add the soaked rice cakes and fish cakes to the simmering sauce. Stir continuously so the flavors coat the ingredients evenly.

5. Add vegetables:
   Stir in the cabbage and onion, cooking until they soften slightly but still retain some crunch.

6. Finish:
   Add green onion and drizzle sesame oil just before turning off the heat. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired. Serve hot—the chewy rice cakes coated in spicy-sweet sauce are the essence of tteokbokki!

*Tip: For a variation, try adding boiled eggs, ramen noodles, or even cheese for extra richness. Tteokbokki is perfect as a snack or a comforting meal.