Topokki (Tteokbokki) – Authentic Korean Spicy Rice Cakes
Enjoy the comforting taste of Korea at home with this authentic topokki (tteokbokki) recipe. Featuring chewy rice cakes in a bold, spicy-sweet gochujang sauce, this popular Korean street food is easy to make and impossible to resist. Perfect for cozy nights, gatherings, or anytime you crave something satisfyingly spicy!
Ingredients
- For the Sauce:
- 2 cups 480ml stock (anchovy, kelp, or chicken)
- 2 tbsp gochujang Korean red chili paste
- 1 tbsp gochugaru Korean chili flakes
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp unrefined brown sugar
- 1 tsp chopped garlic
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Main Ingredients:
- 400 g Korean rice cakes tteok, soaked in warm water
- 120 g Korean fish cakes sliced
- 2 boiled eggs
- 2 stalks spring onions chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds for garnish
- Optional Add-Ins:
- Mozzarella cheese for a creamy variation
- Napa cabbage or zucchini sliced
- Tofu cubed
- Pan-seared dumplings mandu
Instructions
- Soak the Rice Cakes
- Place rice cakes in warm water and soak for 15–20 minutes to soften. Drain before using.
- Prepare the Sauce
- In a medium pot, combine stock, gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic.
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Add Rice Cakes and Fish Cakes
- Add soaked rice cakes and sliced fish cakes to the simmering sauce.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring gently, until the rice cakes are soft and the sauce is thick and glossy.
- Add Eggs, Spring Onions & Optional Toppings
- Add boiled eggs and chopped spring onions. If using mozzarella or other add-ins, add them now and allow cheese to melt.
- Finish and Serve
- Drizzle with sesame oil and sprinkle sesame seeds over the top before serving.
- Enjoy immediately while hot!
Notes
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water or stock to revive the sauce and keep rice cakes soft.
- Avoid microwaving without extra liquid, as rice cakes may become tough.