떡볶이 (Tteokbokki)
Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food dish made primarily from chewy rice cakes known as 'tteok' and a spicy-sweet sauce. Traditionally, it is served with fish cakes, boiled eggs, and chopped green onions. The dish is known for its vibrant red color, which comes from gochujang, a Korean chili paste that gives it a unique flavor profile. Tteokbokki is often enjoyed as a snack or a quick meal and is a favorite among both locals and tourists alike. Its texture is both chewy and soft, making it a delightful experience for the palate. In addition to the classic version, there are many variations that include ingredients like cheese, ramen, or vegetables. The dish is typically cooked in a pan, allowing the rice cakes to soak up the rich flavors of the sauce. The sauce can be adjusted to be spicier or sweeter depending on personal preference. This dish is not only comforting but also perfect for sharing with friends and family. Tteokbokki is often accompanied by a drink, enhancing the experience of this delightful street food.
Ingredients
- Rice cakes (tteok)300g
- Fish cakes100g
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste)3 tablespoons
- Sugar1 tablespoon
- Green onions2 stalks
Directions
- Step 1
Begin by soaking the rice cakes in warm water for about 10-15 minutes if they are hard or refrigerated. This will soften them and make them easier to cook. While the rice cakes are soaking, prepare the other ingredients by slicing the fish cakes into bite-sized pieces and chopping the green onions into small sections.
- Step 2
In a large pan, combine the gochujang, sugar, and 1 cup of water to create the sauce. Stir the mixture well to dissolve the gochujang and sugar completely. Place the pan over medium heat and bring the sauce to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Step 3
Once the sauce is bubbling, add the soaked rice cakes to the pan. Stir gently to ensure that each piece is coated with the sauce. Cook the rice cakes in the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
- Step 4
After the rice cakes have softened, add the sliced fish cakes to the pan. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the fish cakes to heat through and absorb some of the sauce's flavor. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water to maintain the desired consistency.
- Step 5
Finally, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top of the tteokbokki and give it a final stir. Cook for another minute to allow the green onions to wilt slightly. Once done, remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with more green onions or sesame seeds if desired.