Name: Delicious Tteokbokki (Dukbokki) – Spice Up Your Dinner Tonight!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 300 grams Tteokbokki (Korean rice cakes) (Choose frozen for authentic texture.); 100 grams Korean fish cakes (Replace with fried tofu pockets for vegan option.); 2 cups Anchovy stock (Use water for vegetarian option.); 1 piece Dried kelp (Enhances umami flavor.); 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean red chili paste) (No substitutes for authenticity.); 1 tablespoon Gochugaru (Korean chili pepper flakes) (Adjust according to spice level.); 2 tablespoons Soy sauce (Use gluten-free tamari for gluten-free option.); 1 tablespoon Sugar (Honey or maple syrup can be used as substitutes.); 1 tablespoon Toasted sesame oil (Essential for nutty aroma.); 2 tablespoons Scallions (Freshly chopped for garnish.); 1 tablespoon Sesame seeds (For added texture.)

If you’ve ever strolled through the bustling streets of Seoul, you might have caught the enticing aroma of Tteokbokki wafting through the air. This beloved Korean street food features chewy rice cakes immersed in a fiery, flavorful sauce that dances on your palate. As a quick meal that can be prepared in just 35 minutes, Tteokbokki (Dukbokki) is the perfect solution for those busy nights when you crave a satisfying home-cooked dish. Not only is it a tantalizing treat, but its versatility allows you to customize it with vegan alternatives or tweak the spice level to suit your taste. Are you ready to whip up this deliciously addictive comfort food and impress your family with a flavor-packed meal? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Tteokbokki a Must-Try Dish?

Flavor Explosion: Tteokbokki delivers an unforgettable kick with its bold mix of gochujang and gochugaru, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Customizable Goodness: Whether you’re vegan or just want to experiment, swapping in fried tofu pockets or adding fresh veggies allows for endless variations.
Quick and Easy: In just 35 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish—perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With its unique chewy texture and vibrant presentation, Tteokbokki is sure to impress everyone around your dinner table!
Comfort Food Redefined: This dish embodies the essence of cozy meals, making it a heartwarming addition to your recipe collection. For more comforting meal ideas, check out our guide on easy weeknight dinners.

Tteokbokki Ingredients

• Perfect for a spicy, comforting dish!

For the Tteokbokki

Tteokbokki (Korean rice cakes) – Choose frozen rice cakes for that authentic chewy texture.
Korean fish cakes – Adds a delectable protein boost; replace with fried tofu pockets for a vegan option.

For the Broth

Anchovy stock (or water) – This forms a savory base; opt for water to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Dried kelp – Enhances the broth’s umami flavor; just remember to remove it after cooking!
Gochujang (Korean red chili paste) – The star of the show for that sweet and spicy taste; no substitutes for an authentic kick!
Gochugaru (Korean chili pepper flakes) – Adjust this based on your preferred spice level; great for customizing heat!

For Seasoning

Soy sauce – Adds a savory depth; use gluten-free tamari for a gluten-free option.
Sugar – Helps balance the spiciness; honey or maple syrup make sweet substitutes if needed.
Toasted sesame oil – A must for that nutty aroma; don’t skip this ingredient!

For Garnish

Scallions – Freshly chopped for a crunchy finish and a pop of color.
Sesame seeds – Sprinkled on top for added texture and a nice touch of elegance.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tteokbokki (Dukbokki)

Step 1: Make the Broth
In a medium pot, combine 2 cups of anchovy stock and a piece of dried kelp. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t boil over. Once done, remove the kelp and prepare for the next flavorful step in crafting your Tteokbokki.

Step 2: Season the Broth
Add 2 tablespoons of gochujang, 1 tablespoon of gochugaru, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sugar into the simmering broth. Stir well to combine everything, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely. Increase the heat and bring the mixture back to a gentle boil. You’ll notice the vibrant red color of the sauce beginning to develop—this is the base for your exciting Tteokbokki!

Step 3: Cook the Rice Cakes
Introduce 300 grams of frozen Tteokbokki rice cakes to the boiling sauce. Stir them gently, ensuring each piece is coated in that rich, red sauce. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice cakes become soft and comfortably chewy. Watch as they absorb the sauce, taking on that delicious flavor that makes Tteokbokki so addictive!

Step 4: Add Fish Cakes
Incorporate 100 grams of Korean fish cakes into the pot, stirring them into the bubbly mixture. Continue cooking for an additional 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir regularly to prevent sticking, and you’ll see everything becoming beautifully glossy and inviting. This is the moment the Tteokbokki truly starts to come alive!

Step 5: Serve
Once everything is cooked and fragrant, remove the pot from heat. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil and fold in 2 chopped scallions for that fresh crunch. Transfer the Tteokbokki to a serving bowl and finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will surely draw everyone to the table for this exciting dish!

Tteokbokki (Dukbokki) Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and tweaks, allowing your Tteokbokki to be as unique as your taste buds!

Vegan Alternative: Swap Korean fish cakes for sliced fried tofu pockets for a hearty vegan version that retains the dish’s texture.
Gluten-Free Switch: Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities. You can still rock that savory flavor!
Extra Veggies: Boost nutrition by adding crisp bok choy, carrots, or bell peppers. They will bring color and crunch to your Tteokbokki.
Sweeten the Sauce: Substitute granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness that lovingly balances the spice.
Heat It Up: Adjust the amount of gochugaru to elevate your dish’s spice level. If you crave heat, consider adding some sliced fresh chili peppers!
Noodle Twist: For a delightful texture variation, toss in some cooked rice noodles or udon for a fun twist on the classic Tteokbokki.
Flavor Fusion: Mix in a tablespoon of gochujang with a splash of sesame oil for additional flavor depth, creating a more complex and richly spiced sauce!
Seafood Variation: Add shrimp or calamari for an oceanic touch, introducing new flavors while keeping the dish exciting. These proteins cook up quickly and add a fresh taste!

Feel inspired to experiment with these variations and customize your Tteokbokki! To enhance the experience further, check out our article on easy weeknight dinners for more delicious ideas that fit every palate.

What to Serve with Spicy Chewy Tteokbokki (Dukbokki)

To elevate your Tteokbokki experience, consider these delightful pairings that complement its vibrant flavors and textures.

Crispy Fried Dumplings: These golden brown bites add a satisfying crunch and savory flavor, perfect for dipping into the Tteokbokki sauce.
Korean Oi Muchim (Spicy Cucumber Salad): A refreshing, tangy salad that balances the heat of Tteokbokki with its crisp texture and zesty dressing.
Savory Seaweed Soup: This warm, umami-rich soup delivers a comforting element to your meal, harmonizing beautifully with the bold flavors of Tteokbokki.
Protein-packed Kimbap: With its chewy rice rolls and colorful veggies, this Korean sushi is a delightful partner that enhances the overall meal experience.
Soft Tofu Stew: Creamy and warming, this dish offers a contrast to the spice of Tteokbokki, taking the comfort food vibe to another level.
Mild Kimchi: The fermented tang and crunch of kimchi provides a lovely acidity that cuts through the richness of Tteokbokki without overwhelming it.

Serve with a chilled Korean beer or a sweet soju cocktail to complete your meal and invigorate the dining experience!

How to Store and Freeze Tteokbokki

Fridge: Store leftover Tteokbokki in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2–3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore some moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Tteokbokki in portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat in a pan on low heat, stirring frequently, to help regain the chewy texture of the rice cakes while ensuring they heat through evenly.

Texture Tips: Note that Tteokbokki is best enjoyed fresh, as the rice cakes may become firmer when refrigerated or frozen. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of your Tteokbokki again with proper storage!

Expert Tips for Tteokbokki

Perfect Timing: Serve Tteokbokki immediately after cooking to enjoy its ideal chewiness; it’s best fresh off the stove.
Spice Control: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with half the gochujang and gochugaru, then adjust to your preferred spice level.
Prevent Sticking: Stir the rice cakes and fish cakes often during cooking to keep them from clumping together and ensure even cooking.
Storage Savvy: Leftover Tteokbokki can be kept for 2-3 days in the fridge but may lose its chewy texture upon reheating; enjoy it fresh for the best experience!
Customizable Options: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Use fried tofu for a delicious vegan alternative, and toss in your favorite vegetables for added nutrition.

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy Chewy Tteokbokki (Dukbokki) are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the broth (anchovy stock, gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, and sugar) up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients in an airtight container and refrigerating it. The rice cakes can also be assembled with the prepared broth and refrigerated, ensuring you keep everything sealed to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your Tteokbokki, simply heat the prepped broth and rice cakes in a pot and add the fish cakes, cooking for about 4 minutes until heated through. This way, you can serve a delicious meal with minimal effort, giving you more time to relax and savor your creation!

Tteokbokki (Dukbokki) Recipe FAQs

What type of Tteokbokki rice cakes should I use?
It’s best to use frozen Tteokbokki rice cakes for their authentic chewy texture. Fresh rice cakes can also work if available, but the frozen variety will provide that delightful chewiness that is synonymous with Tteokbokki.

How should I store leftover Tteokbokki?
Store any leftover Tteokbokki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to keep it moist and return the dish to the stovetop on a low flame to restore some of its original texture.

Can I freeze Tteokbokki?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze Tteokbokki in portions using freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently to maintain that perfect chewy consistency.

What if my Tteokbokki sauce is too thick?
If you find your Tteokbokki sauce is too thick while cooking, simply add a little water or additional broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well to incorporate. This will help ensure a delightful coating of sauce around your flavorful rice cakes without losing the essence of the dish.

Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
Yes! If you’re looking to make Tteokbokki vegan, you can substitute the fish cakes with fried tofu pockets. Be mindful of soy allergies as the soy sauce is a key ingredient, but you can use gluten-free tamari if needed. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary requirements!