Tteokbokki
Chewy rice cakes simmered in a sweet-hot gochujang sauce until it clings. Korea's favourite street snack, and it takes fifteen minutes.
Method
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If the rice cakes are refrigerated or frozen, soak them in warm water for 20 minutes until pliable, then drain.
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Bring the stock to a boil in a wide, shallow pan.
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Whisk in the gochujang, gochugaru, sugar, soy sauce, garlic and corn syrup until fully dissolved.
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Add the rice cakes and fish cakes and boil steadily, stirring often so nothing sticks to the base.
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Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, until the rice cakes are soft and chewy through and the sauce has reduced to a thick, glossy coating.
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Add the spring onions and boiled eggs in the last 2 minutes to warm through.
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Take off the heat, stir in the sesame oil, scatter with sesame seeds and serve immediately.
Chef’s Tips
- Keep stirring. Rice cakes stick to the pan the moment you stop.
- Serve straight away — the sauce continues thickening and the cakes harden as they cool.
- For rosé tteokbokki, stir in 100 ml of double cream at the end. It is not traditional but it is delicious.
Pairing Suggestions
- A cold lager, or Korean rice punch
- Serve with fried mandu or kimbap
- Finish with a sweet iced drink
Storage & Reheating
Best fresh. Keeps 1 day; reheat with a splash of stock to loosen, though the cakes will be firmer.
Nutritional Highlights
Per serving, calculated from the ingredient list. Treat these as an estimate — brands and cuts vary.