Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)

Tteokbokki is a popular Korean dish made with chewy rice cakes simmered in a rich, spicy sauce. This beloved comfort food has become a street food staple and a household favorite for its bold flavors and satisfying texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tteokbokki recipe is incredibly flavorful, combining spicy, sweet, and savory elements in a deliciously thick sauce that clings to every bite. It’s easy to prepare, adaptable to different tastes, and perfect for anyone craving a comforting, hearty dish with a Korean twist. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack or a main meal, Tteokbokki is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Korean rice cakes (tteok)

• 3 cups water or anchovy broth

• 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)

• 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 2 to 3 Korean fish cakes, sliced (optional)

• 1/2 onion, sliced

• 2 green onions, chopped into 2-inch pieces

• 1 boiled egg, halved (optional)

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Soak refrigerated or frozen rice cakes in warm water for 20 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.

2. In a bowl, mix gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, and sugar until well combined.

3. In a wide pan, bring the water or broth to a boil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and the sauce mixture. Stir to combine.

4. Add the softened rice cakes and fish cakes to the pan. Stir to coat them evenly in the sauce.

5. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice cakes are tender and the sauce has thickened.

6. Add the green onions and sesame oil. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.

7. Add the boiled egg halves if using, and garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Tteokbokki: Add shredded mozzarella cheese on top just before serving and let it melt for a creamy finish.

• Seafood Tteokbokki: Include shrimp, squid, or mussels for a seafood twist.

• Rosé Tteokbokki: Stir in cream or milk near the end of cooking for a creamy, milder version.

• Vegetarian Tteokbokki: Omit fish cakes and use vegetable broth instead of anchovy broth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The rice cakes may harden slightly as they cool.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave with added moisture in a microwave-safe container.

FAQs

What is Tteokbokki?

Tteokbokki is a Korean dish made with chewy rice cakes cooked in a spicy, savory sauce, often with fish cakes and boiled eggs.

Can I make Tteokbokki less spicy?

Yes, reduce the gochujang and gochugaru, or add a little sugar to balance the heat.

Can I use frozen rice cakes?

Yes, just soak them in warm water until softened before cooking.

Can I make Tteokbokki gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your gochujang is gluten-free.

What can I serve with Tteokbokki?

It pairs well with pickled radish, kimchi, or a light cucumber salad.

Is anchovy broth necessary?

No, you can use water or vegetable broth as a substitute.

Can I add meat or tofu?

Yes, sliced beef, chicken, or tofu are great protein additions.

How do I keep the sauce from thickening too much?

Add a little extra broth or water if it gets too thick during cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Tteokbokki is best fresh, but you can prepare it in advance and reheat with added liquid.

Are there other types of Tteokbokki?

Yes, there are many versions including soy sauce-based, curry-flavored, and cream-based styles.

Conclusion

Tteokbokki is a delicious and comforting Korean dish that’s easy to prepare at home. Its spicy-sweet sauce and chewy rice cakes make it a flavorful choice for anyone looking to enjoy the taste of Korean street food. With its flexibility in ingredients and spice levels, this recipe is perfect for customizing and sharing.