If you’ve seen those glossy, spicy rice cakes all over social media lately, you already know why tteokbokki is trending. This iconic street-style dish is chewy, saucy, slightly sweet, and perfectly spicy all at once. The best part? You don’t have to hunt for a street stall to enjoy it — you can make it easily in your own kitchen.
This recipe keeps things simple, quick, and beginner-friendly while still giving you that authentic flavor and texture people love. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or already obsessed with Korean flavors, this version is perfect for weeknights or fun snack dinners.
Quick Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 2–3
Ingredients
Main
- 14 oz Korean rice cakes (cylindrical style)
- 3 cups water or anchovy broth
- 2 boiled eggs (optional)
- 1 cup fish cakes, sliced (optional but traditional)
Sauce
- 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Garnish
- Green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Soak rice cakes (if needed)
If your rice cakes are refrigerated or frozen, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes so they soften.
2. Make the sauce base
In a pan, add water or broth, gochujang, sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and chili flakes. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
3. Add rice cakes and extras
Add rice cakes, fish cakes, and boiled eggs. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom.
4. Simmer until thick
Cook for about 10–12 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the rice cakes. The texture should be glossy and slightly sticky.
5. Garnish and serve
Top with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot for the best chewy texture.
Tips for Perfect Tteokbokki
- Stir frequently to prevent sauce from burning.
- Add more water if sauce thickens too quickly.
- Taste before serving and adjust spice or sweetness.
- Use broth instead of water for deeper flavor.
Easy Variations
- Cheesy version: Add shredded mozzarella on top and let it melt.
- Mild version: Reduce chili paste and flakes.
- High-protein option: Add tofu cubes or extra eggs.
- Street-style upgrade: Add ramen noodles during the last 3 minutes.
Approximate Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 330
- Protein: 9g
- Carbs: 65g
- Fat: 4g
FAQs
What do rice cakes taste like?
They’re mild and slightly sweet on their own, which makes them perfect for soaking up bold sauces.
Can I make this ahead?
It’s best fresh because rice cakes firm up after cooling. Reheat with a splash of water to soften.
Where can I find rice cakes?
Most Asian grocery stores carry them in refrigerated or frozen sections.
Is it very spicy?
It can be, but you control the heat level by adjusting chili paste and flakes.
This dish is fun, bold, and comforting all at the same time — the kind of recipe that turns a simple evening meal into something exciting.
