Name: Tteokbokki (Spicy Korean Rice Cakes)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-486280H13M51S
Total time: PT-486280H13M51S
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 400 g (14 oz) Korean rice cakes (tteok), fresh or refrigerated; 2 cups water (or anchovy/kombu broth for authentic flavor); 1 sheet fish cake, sliced (optional); ½ small onion, sliced; 1 green onion, chopped (separate white and green parts); 1 boiled egg (optional); 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) – adjust for spice; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tsp sugar (or more to taste); 1 tsp minced garlic; 1 tsp sesame oil

Tteokbokki is a beloved Korean dish known for its chewy rice cakes drenched in a spicy, savory, and slightly sweet sauce. This comforting street food can be found in many eateries across Korea, and now you can recreate the flavors at home with this easy-to-follow recipe. The combination of gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil brings a depth of umami that perfectly coats the rice cakes, while the optional add-ins like fish cakes and boiled eggs take the dish to the next level. If you love bold flavors with a kick, Tteokbokki will surely become one of your favorite recipes.

Tteokbokki (Spicy Korean Rice Cakes)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tteokbokki is a perfect fusion of chewy texture, rich sauce, and spice. It’s an ideal dish for anyone who enjoys bold, flavorful meals with a bit of heat. Whether you’re making it as a snack or a main dish, its customizable nature allows you to add your favorite ingredients, such as fish cakes, ramen noodles, or even cheese. The recipe is quick, simple, and guaranteed to please your taste buds. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy authentic Korean flavors from the comfort of your home.

Ingredients

400 g (14 oz) Korean rice cakes (tteok), fresh or refrigerated
2 cups water (or anchovy/kombu broth for authentic flavor)
1 sheet fish cake, sliced (optional)
½ small onion, sliced
1 green onion, chopped (separate white and green parts)
1 boiled egg (optional)

For the sauce:

2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) – adjust for spice
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sugar (or more to taste)
1 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp sesame oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Soak rice cakes (if needed): If using refrigerated or frozen rice cakes, soak them in warm water for 10–15 minutes until softened. Drain.
Make the sauce: In a bowl, mix gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil until combined.
Simmer: In a medium pan, bring 2 cups water (or broth) to a simmer. Stir in the sauce mixture until dissolved.
Add rice cakes and veggies: Add rice cakes, onion, fish cakes (if using), and the white parts of the green onion. Stir well.
Cook until thick: Simmer over medium heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens and rice cakes become soft and chewy.
Add egg & finish: Add a boiled egg if desired. Garnish with green onion tops and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2–3
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

Rabokki (Ramen Tteokbokki): Add ramen noodles for a delicious twist on the classic dish.
Cheese Tteokbokki: Top with melted mozzarella cheese for a creamy and cheesy version.
Vegetable Tteokbokki: Add cabbage, carrots, or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
Vegan Tteokbokki: Skip the fish cake and egg for a vegan version, or substitute with tofu.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. What are Korean rice cakes?

Korean rice cakes (tteok) are chewy rice flour-based cakes commonly used in Korean cuisine. They come in different shapes and sizes and are the star ingredient in dishes like Tteokbokki.

2. Can I use frozen rice cakes?

Yes, if you’re using frozen rice cakes, be sure to soak them in warm water for 10–15 minutes until softened before using them in the recipe.

3. Can I use regular chili paste if I don’t have gochujang?

Gochujang provides a unique balance of spicy, sweet, and umami flavors. If you don’t have gochujang, you can try substituting with a regular chili paste, though the taste will not be the same.

4. How spicy is Tteokbokki?

Tteokbokki can range from mildly spicy to very spicy, depending on how much gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) you add. Adjust the spice level to your preference.

5. Is Tteokbokki gluten-free?

Traditional Tteokbokki is made with rice cakes that are gluten-free, but check the ingredients of your gochujang and soy sauce to ensure they don’t contain gluten.

6. Can I add vegetables to Tteokbokki?

Yes! Vegetables like cabbage, carrots, or mushrooms work great in Tteokbokki. They add extra flavor and texture to the dish.

7. What kind of fish cake should I use for Tteokbokki?

The traditional fish cake used in Tteokbokki is a soft, sliced fish cake commonly found in Korean markets. You can find it in the frozen section of Asian grocery stores.

8. Can I make Tteokbokki without sugar?

Sugar helps balance the heat from the chili paste and adds a slight sweetness. However, you can adjust or omit it to suit your taste preferences.

9. Can I add meat to Tteokbokki?

Yes, you can add meat like chicken, beef, or pork. Thinly slice the meat and cook it along with the rice cakes and veggies.

10. Is Tteokbokki a good party food?

Absolutely! Tteokbokki is easy to make in large batches and is a great dish to serve as a party snack or appetizer. It’s filling, flavorful, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Conclusion

Tteokbokki is a flavorful, comforting Korean dish that’s easy to make and completely customizable to your taste. Whether you prefer it with fish cakes, cheese, or extra veggies, this dish offers endless possibilities. It’s perfect for a quick meal or as a fun snack to share with friends and family. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll be hooked on the delicious chewy rice cakes and spicy sauce in no time!