Dinner

Korean Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes in Gochujang Sauce)

Name: Korean Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes in Gochujang Sauce)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 lb Korean rice cakes (tteok), soaked in warm water if refrigerated; 3 cups water or anchovy broth; 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean red chili paste); 1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, optional for extra spice); 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 green onions, chopped; 1/2 cup fish cakes, sliced (optional); 1 boiled egg, halved (optional, for serving); Sesame seeds and more chopped green onion for garnish

ByMariem September 27, 2025

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Tteokbokki is one of Korea’s most famous street foods — chewy rice cakes coated in a fiery, slightly sweet, and deeply savory sauce made with gochujang (Korean chili paste). It’s the kind of dish that instantly warms you up and satisfies your craving for bold, comforting flavors. Found everywhere from street vendors in Seoul to Korean restaurants worldwide, tteokbokki has become a beloved snack and comfort food across cultures.

What makes tteokbokki so irresistible is its texture and sauce. The rice cakes (tteok) are chewy and soft, making every bite addictive, while the sauce balances spiciness, sweetness, and umami in perfect harmony. Often served with fish cakes, boiled eggs, and scallions, this dish is both filling and flavorful. Whether you’re new to Korean cuisine or already a fan, tteokbokki is a must-try recipe that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb Korean rice cakes (tteok), cylindrical shape
3 cups water or anchovy broth
3 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, optional for extra spice)
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sugar (or honey)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 fish cake sheet, sliced (optional)
2 boiled eggs, peeled (optional)
2 green onions, chopped
1 tsp sesame oil
Sesame seeds, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Soften the rice cakes – If using refrigerated or frozen rice cakes, soak them in warm water for 10–15 minutes until softened.
Make the broth – In a deep pan, bring water or anchovy broth to a simmer. Stir in gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, sugar, and garlic until well combined.
Cook the rice cakes – Add the rice cakes and simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Cook for 8–10 minutes until soft and chewy.
Add extras – Stir in fish cakes and boiled eggs if using. Let them absorb the sauce for another 2–3 minutes.
Finish and serve – Drizzle with sesame oil, sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve hot.

Flavor Notes & Variations

For milder heat, reduce the gochugaru or add a splash of ketchup for sweetness. For extra depth, use anchovy broth instead of plain water. You can also add ramen noodles (rabokki), cheese, or dumplings (mandu) for a heartier meal.

Serving Suggestions

Tteokbokki is best enjoyed hot and fresh, served straight from the pan. Pair it with kimchi, fried seaweed rolls (gimbap), or a side of pickled radish (danmuji) for an authentic Korean experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make tteokbokki without gochujang?
Gochujang is essential for authentic flavor, but you can substitute with chili paste mixed with soy sauce and honey if needed.

2. Can I make it less spicy?
Yes, reduce gochujang and skip gochugaru. Add more sugar or honey to balance the spice.

3. Can I use fresh rice cakes instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh rice cakes cook faster (5–6 minutes) and are naturally softer.

4. How do I stop rice cakes from sticking together?
Stir frequently while cooking and soak refrigerated ones in warm water before cooking.

5. Can I make vegetarian tteokbokki?
Yes, simply skip the fish cakes and anchovy broth. Use vegetable broth instead.

6. Can I store leftovers?
Tteokbokki is best eaten fresh, but you can store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

7. Can I freeze cooked tteokbokki?
Not recommended, as the rice cakes can become hard and lose texture.

8. What protein can I add?
Shrimp, squid, or sliced beef are delicious additions if you want a protein-packed version.

Conclusion

Korean Tteokbokki is more than just a snack — it’s a cultural favorite that embodies the bold, comforting flavors of Korean street food. With its chewy rice cakes, rich chili sauce, and customizable add-ins, it’s a dish that’s both fun to make and deeply satisfying to eat. Whether you enjoy it spicy and fiery or on the milder side, tteokbokki is guaranteed to warm your soul and keep you coming back for more. Once you try it at home, it may just become one of your go-to comfort foods.