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Homemade Spicy Korean Rice Cake (Tteobokki) photo

Spicy Korean Rice Cake (Tteobokki)

This Spicy Korean Rice Cake is a must-try! A delightful balance of spice and sweetness with chewy rice cakes that will transport you to Seoul!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Korean

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces dried kelp
  • 4 large dried anchovies with heads and intestines removed
  • 4 cups water
  • 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean hot pepper paste)
  • 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 lb Korean rice cake
  • 2 stalks green onion cut into 3-inch long pieces
  • 2 boiled eggs peeled
  • 4 pieces fish cakes
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds for serving

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. In a large pot, combine the dried kelp, dried anchovies, and 4 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes to extract the flavors. After simmering, remove the kelp and anchovies, and set the broth aside.
  2. In the same pot with the broth, add the gochujang, gochugaru, and sugar. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, creating a smooth sauce.
  3. Add the Korean rice cakes directly into the pot. Stir to coat them evenly with the sauce. Allow them to cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become tender and chewy, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Once the rice cakes are cooked through, add the green onions and fish cakes into the pot. Stir gently to combine and let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
  5. To finish, divide the Tteobokki into serving bowls. Halve the boiled eggs and place them on top of the rice cakes. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a lovely garnish. Enjoy your Spicy Korean Rice Cake warm!

Notes

  • For the best texture, use fresh Korean rice cakes when possible. If using frozen rice cakes, soak them in warm water for 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Adjust the spice level according to your preference by modifying the amounts of gochujang and gochugaru.
  • Feel free to add proteins like shrimp or chicken for a heartier dish.