As the chilly days settle in and the nights stretch longer, I find myself yearning for something warm and comforting to eat. One evening, after a long day, I decided to whip up a bowl of Soupy Tteokbokki, and let me tell you, it was a game changer. Imagine the enticing aroma of gochugaru mingling with the savory depths of anchovy broth, all while the soft rice cakes soak up that deliciousness.
This dish is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Seoul. In just about 10 minutes, you can prepare a dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also leaves you feeling cozy and fulfilled. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to explore the world of homemade delights, this spicy braised rice cake dish will undoubtedly become a favorite in your kitchen. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into making this heartwarming meal together!
Why is Soupy Tteokbokki a Must-Try?
Comforting, This dish wraps you in warmth with every bite, perfect for chilly nights.
Quick prep means you can whip up this delightful meal in just 10 minutes, saving you time and effort.
Flavor explosion: The blend of gochugaru and anchovy broth creates a savory, spicy symphony that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Versatile ingredients like fish cakes and veggies allow you to customize your bowl to suit your cravings.
Heartwarming and satisfying, Soupy Tteokbokki is guaranteed to become your go-to comfort food, impressing friends and family alike!
Soupy Tteokbokki Ingredients
For the Rice Cakes
• Tteokbokki tteok 떡볶이떡 – Use 2 to 3-inch long rice cake pieces for the perfect chewyness that makes Soupy Tteokbokki so delightful.
For the Vegetables
• Napa cabbage or green cabbage – Adds a lovely crunch and pairs beautifully with the creamy broth.
• Eomuk 어묵 (fish cakes) – These provide a savory depth to the dish, enhancing its umami flavor.
• Scallions – Sprinkle these in for a fresh, zesty kick that balances the rich broth.
• Onion – Thinly sliced, it caramelizes beautifully and contributes to the overall flavor profile.
For the Optional Add-Ins
• Soft boiled eggs – These add richness and an extra layer of comfort to your Soupy Tteokbokki.
• Raw ramen noodles – Toss these in for more heartiness; they soak up the flavors wonderfully.
For the Broth and Seasoning
• Anchovy broth – The base of this dish, giving it a deep, savory flavor that ties everything together.
• Gochugaru 고추가루 – A must-have for that signature spicy kick; make sure to get it finely ground!
• Soy sauce – Enhances the umami flavors and adds a depth to the broth.
• Sugar – Balances out the spice with a touch of sweetness for a well-rounded flavor.
• Corn syrup or oligodang – Adds a subtle sweetness; you can substitute more sugar if needed.
• Garlic – Minced, it infuses the dish with warmth and enhances the savory notes.
• Salt & pepper – Essential seasonings that elevate every flavor in your bowl.
How to Make Soupy Tteokbokki
-
Soak the rice cakes in warm water for about 20 minutes if they are hardened or refrigerated. This will help them soften before cooking and ensure a delightful chewy texture. While soaking, prepare your anchovy broth if you don’t have it ready.
-
Chop the napa cabbage or green cabbage, fish cakes, and scallions into 2-inch long pieces. Also, thinly slice the onion. This preparation ensures even cooking and makes the dish visually appealing.
-
Combine all the seasoning ingredients in a small bowl, adding 3 tablespoons of the warm anchovy broth or water. This blend of flavors will create a tasty coating for your soupy treat.
-
Pour the anchovy broth into a large pan or shallow pot, then stir in the prepared seasoning mix. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil over medium-high heat, filling your kitchen with enticing aromas.
-
Add the softened rice cakes to the boiling broth and give them a gentle stir. When they start to soften, it’s time to toss in your chopped vegetables, fish cakes, and optional soft boiled eggs. Continue to boil, stirring gently for about 10 minutes until everything is tender. With two minutes remaining, mix in the raw ramen noodles if you desire a heartier meal.
Optional: Top with extra scallions for a fresh finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Soupy Tteokbokki is a fantastic dish for meal prep, allowing you to savor its deliciousness even on your busiest days! You can soak the rice cakes and chop all your vegetables (napa cabbage, fish cakes, scallions, and onion) up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh. For the seasoning mix, combine all ingredients and refrigerate in a separate container to maintain potency. When you’re ready to enjoy your Soupy Tteokbokki, simply bring your prepared anchovy broth to a boil, toss in the prepped ingredients, and simmer until everything is tender—resulting in that cozy, comforting meal with just a fraction of the effort!
How to Store and Freeze Soupy Tteokbokki
Fridge: Store any leftover Soupy Tteokbokki in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to revive its creamy texture.
Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze the dish without the soft boiled eggs or ramen noodles for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on low heat in a pot. Add a little broth if it’s too thick and stir gently until heated through.
Avoiding Texture Loss: To maintain the chewy quality of the rice cakes, be careful not to overcook them when reheating. Enjoy the deliciousness of your Soupy Tteokbokki!
Expert Tips for Soupy Tteokbokki
- Soaking Rice Cakes: Soak the tteokbokki for 20 minutes if hardened. This ensures they become perfectly chewy in the soup and are easier to cook.
- Customizable Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots or bok choy based on your preferences. This makes your Soupy Tteokbokki even heartier!
- Balancing Flavors: Adjust the sugar and gochugaru to suit your spice preference. A tad more sugar can balance the heat for a well-rounded taste.
- Watch the Timing: Stir occasionally while boiling to prevent sticking and burning at the bottom. Keeping an eye on the cooking time ensures perfect texture.
- Optional Ingredients: Don’t skip the soft boiled eggs or ramen noodles—they add savory richness and make your dish extra fulfilling.
Soupy Tteokbokki Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and tweak this dish to suit your cravings!
-
Spicy Additions: Mix in some sliced jalapeños or gochujang for an extra kick. This will turn up the heat and add a lovely depth to the broth.
-
Vegetable Boost: Throw in some baby bok choy or julienned carrots for added color and nutrition. The vibrant veggies will elevate the visual appeal, making your meal even more enticing.
-
Vegan Delight: Swap out the anchovy broth for a vegetable broth and skip the fish cakes to create a delicious vegan version. You won’t miss the fish, as the gochugaru and veggies shine through!
-
Creamy Twist: Add a splash of coconut milk for a creamy texture. This unexpected twist takes the dish to a whole new level of indulgence without overwhelming the original flavors.
-
Noodle Variety: Try using udon noodles instead of ramen for a chewier texture, or rice vermicelli for a gluten-free option. Each type of noodle provides a unique experience in your bowl!
-
Protein Punch: Throw in some diced chicken or tofu for added protein. They absorb the savory broth beautifully while enhancing the dish’s heartiness.
-
Savory Garnish: Top your bowl with sesame seeds or chopped nuts for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. This adds another layer of texture that complements the soft rice cakes perfectly.
-
Sweet Finish: Drizzle a little honey or maple syrup on top before serving for a surprising, sweet contrast to the spices. This will tie together the flavors in a gorgeous and balanced way.
What to Serve with Soupy Tteokbokki?
As you savor the rich, spicy goodness of this dish, consider delighting your taste buds with a few perfect pairings that create a memorable meal.
-
Crispy Korean Fried Chicken: The crunchy exterior and juicy meat offer a tantalizing contrast to the tenderness of Soupy Tteokbokki.
-
Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A cool, tangy cucumber salad provides a delightful contrast, cleansing the palate between bites of spicy goodness.
-
Korean Miso Soup: This comforting soup complements the flavors in Soupy Tteokbokki beautifully, creating a warm and satisfying dining experience.
-
Steamed Rice: Simple yet essential, a bowl of fluffy steamed rice can soak up the extra broth, enhancing the overall enjoyment of each bite.
Indulging in these pairings will elevate your mealtime, transforming a cozy dinner into a comforting feast. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a casual weeknight meal, these additions will surprise and delight everyone around the table.
-
Hot Tea or Iced Barley Tea: Both drinks are traditional Korean beverages that will help to balance the dish’s richness while providing a soothing finish.
-
Mochi Ice Cream: To round off your spicy meal, treat yourself to a sweet and chewy mochi ice cream that offers a delightful, refreshing contrast.
Soupy Tteokbokki Recipe FAQs
What type of rice cakes should I use for Soupy Tteokbokki?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using 2 to 3-inch long tteokbokki tteok 떡볶이떡, which really enhances the delightful chewy texture of the dish. Look for them at Asian grocery stores or online for authentic results.
How should I store leftovers of Soupy Tteokbokki?
You can store any leftover Soupy Tteokbokki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it on the stovetop with a splash of broth to bring back its delicious creamy texture!
Can I freeze Soupy Tteokbokki?
Yes, you can! But it’s best to freeze the Soupy Tteokbokki without the soft boiled eggs or raw ramen noodles for optimal taste and texture. Simply pack it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and reheat it gently on low heat.
What if my rice cakes are too hard to cook with?
No worries! If your rice cakes are hard, soak them in warm water for about 20 minutes before cooking. This softening process will ensure they turn out chewy and irresistible in your Soupy Tteokbokki.
Are there any dietary considerations for Soupy Tteokbokki?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, be mindful of the soy sauce as it contains gluten. You can use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce as a substitute. Additionally, for vegetarian or vegan diets, opt for a vegetable broth instead of anchovy broth to keep it delicious!
Can I customize the vegetables in Soupy Tteokbokki?
Very much! Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots, bok choy, or mushrooms based on your taste preferences. This not only adds nutritional value but also enhances the flavors and colors in your Soupy Tteokbokki. Enjoy the creativity in your kitchen!
Delicious Soupy Tteokbokki: Your Next Spicy Comfort Food!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the rice cakes in warm water for 20 minutes if they are hardened.
- Chop the napa cabbage, fish cakes, and scallions into 2-inch long pieces, and thinly slice the onion.
- Combine all seasoning ingredients in a small bowl, adding 3 tablespoons of warm anchovy broth.
- Pour the anchovy broth into a large pan, stir in the seasoning mix, and bring to a boil.
- Add softened rice cakes and stir gently. After they start to soften, add chopped vegetables, fish cakes, and optional eggs.
- Continue to boil for 10 minutes, stirring gently. If using, mix in raw ramen noodles 2 minutes before done.
- Optional: Top with extra scallions for a fresh finish.