Spicy Cheesy Korean Rice Cakes Tteokbokki – Friendsgiving Food Ideas

When I think of comfort food, few dishes can compete with Tteokbokki. This Korean delight isn’t just about its taste; it’s a dish that carries stories, memories, and a unique twist of flavor. 

Imagine sitting down with a bowl of these spicy, cheesy rice cakes and pairing it with something refreshing, like a crisp cucumber salad or a simple yet zesty kimchi. 

Each bite harmonizes with the crunch of fresh veggies, making it an experience that warms both body and soul.

What is Spicy Cheesy Korean Rice Cakes (Tteokbokki)?

Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food made from tteok, which are chewy rice cakes typically combined with spicy sauce, vegetables, and sometimes protein such as fish cakes. 

My version jazzes it up with gooey mozzarella cheese, creating a delightful fusion of spicy and cheesy goodness. Whether you enjoy it as a snack or a main dish, it’s guaranteed to leave you craving more.

The Ingredients

To prepare this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:

– 1 ½ to 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean red chili paste)  

– 1 tbsp Soy Sauce  

– 1 tbsp Garlic, minced  

– 1 tsp Ginger, grated  

– 3 tsp Korean Red Pepper Flakes  

– 1 tbsp Honey  

– 1 tsp black pepper  

– 2 cups Dashi or Vegetable Broth  

– 3 cups Frozen Rice Cake  

– ½ Onion, thinly sliced  

– ¼ Cabbage, shredded  

– 2 Green Onions, cut into 2-inch segments  

– 1 cup Fish Cake, sliced  

– 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese  

– 1 tbsp Sesame Oil  

– ½ tbsp Sugar  

How to Make Spicy Cheesy Korean Rice Cakes (Tteokbokki)

This dish comes together quicker than you think. As you dive into the recipe, you’ll want to follow the steps closely for the best results. Let’s navigate through the stages of creation, and soon enough, your kitchen will be filled with tantalizing scents.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients. Chop the onion, green onions, and cabbage. If you’re using fish cakes, slice them as well. This prep phase keeps the cooking process smooth. It’s like laying the foundation for your dream house.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a pot, combine the gochujang, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, black pepper, sugar, honey, and Korean red pepper flakes. Pour in the dashi or vegetable broth. Stir well to mix everything together. This sauce is the star of the show!

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Toss in the sliced onion and cabbage. Allow them to cook until the onion turns translucent and the cabbage softens. 

This can take about 5 minutes. You want just enough time for them to mingle with those spicy flavors.

Step 4: Add the Rice Cakes

Now, it’s time to add your frozen rice cakes. Stir them in, ensuring they’re well-coated with that luscious sauce. 

Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice cakes become tender and chewy. The texture of the rice cakes is vital; they should be soft but still have a delightful bite.

Step 5: Incorporate Fish Cakes

If you’re including fish cakes, add them now. Let everything simmer together for a few more minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening, hugging those ingredients tightly.

Step 6: The Cheesy Finish

Once your tteokbokki has reached the perfect consistency, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. 

Cover the pot and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese melts gloriously. You may want to take a moment here to appreciate the gooey goodness before serving.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Drizzle sesame oil over the finished dish, and top it with slices of green onion for that final touch. Serve hot and watch your friends and family dive in. It’s truly a sight worth seeing!

Notes

• Adjust the spice level. You can modify the amount of gochujang and red pepper flakes based on your palate.
  
• Want more veggies? Feel free to toss in other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition.
  
• Cheese choices. Mozzarella is great, but feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like cheddar.
  
• Serving size. This recipe is generous! Leftovers can be stored or shared.
  
• Cook time. Keep a close eye on the cooking times to prevent overcooking the rice cakes.
  

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll be good for up to three days. Just reheating might not yield the same texture, but a quick zap in the microwave should suffice. 

The rice cakes may absorb some of the sauce, so you can add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep them moist.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some savory pairings to elevate your tteokbokki experience:

1. Korean Fried Chicken: Perfectly crispy and juicy, this is a fantastic contrast to the chewy rice cakes.
   
2. Kimchi: The fermented tanginess cuts through the richness beautifully. It’s a match made in culinary heaven.
   
3. Pickled Radish: The crunch and acidity can provide a refreshing palate cleanser.
   
4. Cucumber Salad: A light, crunchy complement that offers a break from the spice and heat.
   
5. Glass Noodles Stir-Fry: These add a delightful texture, pairing smoothly with your tteokbokki.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Spicy Cheesy Korean Rice Cakes (Tteokbokki)?

Finding alternatives can lead to delicious discoveries! Below are a few options:

1. Udon Noodles: If you can’t find rice cakes, udon noodles can provide a similar chewiness that pairs well with the sauce.
   
2. Sweet Potato Noodles (Japchae): Another fun substitute that brings a slightly different flavor profile.
   
3. Squash (Zucchini or Butternut): For a vegetarian take, add sautéed squash cubes to replace fish cakes.
   
4. Tofu: For protein, diced tofu can soak up the flavors well and add a healthy element to your dish.
   
5. Vegan Cheese: If you’re avoiding dairy, consider plant-based cheese for a similar cheesy effect.
   

Conclusion

Creating Spicy Cheesy Tteokbokki has transformed ordinary nights into celebratory feasts. Whether you’re indulging solo or throwing a gathering, this dish is bound to impress. It embodies a blend of flavor, texture, and warmth. 

So roll up your sleeves and dive into this culinary adventure. Each bite is not just food; it’s a celebration of flavors that resonate with history and culture. Enjoy your culinary journey!

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