Tteokbokki (pronounced “took-bok-ee”) is a beloved Korean street food known for its chewy rice cakes and fiery, gochujang-based sauce. It’s a simple dish with endless variations, enjoyed by people of all ages. This recipe is a great starting point, offering a delicious and approachable version of this iconic Korean comfort food.
Ingredients:
1 pound (450g) cylindrical rice cakes (garaetteok)
Instructions:
1. Prep the rice cakes: If using pre-cooked rice cakes, simply rinse them under cold water to remove any excess starch. Some rice cakes may require boiling for a few minutes to soften slightly, follow package instructions if needed.
2. Make the sauce: In a large pot, combine water, gochujang, gochugaru (if using), soy sauce, sugar, fish sauce, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Add the rice cakes: Add the rice cakes to the simmering sauce and gently stir to coat. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the rice cakes are softened through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – you may want to add more gochujang for extra spice or a touch of sugar for balance.
4. Incorporate additional ingredients (optional): If using fish cakes, hard-boiled eggs, or ramen noodles, add them to the pot during the last few minutes of simmering.
5. Serve: Transfer the tteokbokki to a serving dish and garnish with sliced scallions. Enjoy hot with a side of kimchi or pickled radishes for a refreshing counterpoint to the spice.
Tips:
For a thicker sauce, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and cook until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Nutrition Facts (per serving, without optional additions):
Calories: 350
Please note: This is a general estimate and the actual nutritional content may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Conclusion
Tteokbokki is a versatile dish that can be customized to your taste preferences. It’s a fun and flavorful introduction to Korean cuisine, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. So gather your ingredients, crank up the heat, and get ready to experience the delicious world of tteokbokki!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I substitute the gochujang with another chili paste?
While gochujang is the key ingredient for authentic tteokbokki, you can use another chili paste in a pinch. However, the flavor profile will be slightly different. Opt for a Korean-style chili paste or a Szechuan chili bean paste for the closest substitute. Be aware that these pastes may have varying levels of heat, so adjust the amount accordingly.
2. My tteokbokki is too spicy! What can I do?
If your tteokbokki is a bit too fiery for your taste, there are a few ways to tame the heat. First, try adding a spoonful of honey or brown sugar to balance out the spice with sweetness. You can also add some shredded cheese or a dollop of plain yogurt to create a creamy texture that mellows the spice.
3. What can I serve with tteokbokki?
