Spicy Stir Fried Rice Cakes

Spicy Stir-Fried Rice Cakes, also known as Tteokbokki, is a beloved Korean street food that packs a punch of flavor and heat. These cylindrical rice cakes (duk) are cooked in a fiery and rich sauce, making it a popular choice for both casual meals at home and as a mouthwatering snack to enjoy with drinks. This piping hot and super-spicy dish is not for the faint of heart but is a delightful treat for those who crave bold flavors and a little heat. While the traditional version includes fish cakes (oden or omuk), this versatile recipe allows you to customize it to your preferences, making it with beef or transforming it into a delectable vegetarian delight. The addition of napa cabbage and other vegetables adds freshness and texture, creating a satisfying dish that will have you coming back for more. Learn how to make this tantalizing Tteokbokki and experience the authentic taste of Korean street food in the comfort of your own kitchen!

INGREDIENTS

• 1 pound cylindrical rice cakes (duk), cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 cups water, at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon gochujang
• 1 teaspoon gochugaru
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1½ tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 cup rectangular fish cakes (omuk), cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 shiitake mushrooms, soaked for 30 minutes, drained, and sliced into pieces
• 2 cups chopped napa cabbage

PREPARATIONS

1. Soak the rice cakes in cold water for about an hour. Drain and set aside.
2. In a wide, shallow saucepan, mix 3 cups water with the gochujang, gochugaru, sugar, garlic, and soy sauce and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Add the fish cakes and stir to combine. Return to a boil and add the mushrooms, cabbage, and rice cakes. Bring up to a boil again and cook for about 3 minutes, and then turn off the heat. The sauce will thicken while it sits, but you can serve it immediately.

YIELD

• Serves 4

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

• If you don’t have time to soak the rice cakes in advance, you can add them into the pot at the very beginning when you are making the sauce and follow the rest of the recipe.

TIPS

• To make a fusion dish, try the Tteokbokki Carbonara by adding pancetta, half-and-half, and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce while cooking. This creamy version offers a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
• For a less spicy version, omit the gochujang, or reduce the amount to your preferred level of spiciness.

In conclusion, Spicy Stir-Fried Rice Cakes, or Tteokbokki, is a popular Korean street food that satisfies the cravings of spice lovers. This dish showcases the unique cylindrical rice cakes enveloped in a fiery and flavorful sauce, making it a favorite for casual meals and snacking alike. The recipe’s versatility allows for personalized variations, with options to include fish cakes, beef, or create a vegetarian-friendly version. The addition of napa cabbage and other vegetables enhances the dish’s texture and provides a delightful contrast to the spiciness. Whether you’re a fan of intense flavors or looking to experience authentic Korean street food, Tteokbokki is sure to impress with its bold taste and delightful aroma. Indulge in the tantalizing heat and savor the authentic flavors of this beloved Korean classic from the comfort of your own home.