Welcome back to Chelsea's K-Food Recipes! Today, we’re making a traditional Korean dish—Rice Cake Soup (떡국, Tteokguk). This comforting soup is a must-have for Korean New Year (설날, Seollal) and is enjoyed as a symbol of starting the year fresh and gaining another year in age. With soft, chewy rice cakes in a savory broth, this dish is simple to make and absolutely delicious. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients:
- 300g Korean rice cakes (떡, tteok), sliced
- 200g beef (brisket or sliced stew meat), thinly sliced
- 8 cups water or beef broth
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or to taste)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Gim (김, seaweed sheets), toasted and cut into thin strips
- Sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice Cakes
- If using frozen or refrigerated rice cakes, soak them in cold water for about 10-15 minutes to soften. Drain and set aside.
- Freshly made rice cakes can be used directly without soaking.
2. Cook the Beef
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced beef and stir-fry until browned, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Broth and Rice Cakes
- Pour 8 cups of water or beef broth into the pot.
- Add the soaked rice cakes to the pot.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
4. Season and Simmer
- Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and adjust to taste. Let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the rice cakes become soft and chewy.
- Stir occasionally to prevent the rice cakes from sticking to the bottom.
5. Add the Egg
- Slowly pour the beaten eggs into the simmering soup, creating ribbons of egg throughout the broth.
- Gently stir to mix the eggs evenly.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Add chopped green onions and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with toasted seaweed strips and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve hot with a bowl of kimchi for a traditional Korean meal!
Tips for Perfect Tteokguk:
- Rice cake texture: The rice cakes should be soft but still slightly chewy when fully cooked. Adjust the simmering time as needed.
- Use good-quality broth: Beef broth adds depth of flavor, but you can also use anchovy or vegetable broth for a lighter version.
- Garnish generously: The toppings like seaweed strips and sesame seeds add texture and extra flavor to the soup.
Rice Cake Soup is a warm, hearty, and symbolic dish that’s perfect for celebrations or just a cozy meal. It’s an essential part of Korean tradition during New Year’s but is also enjoyed throughout the winter for its comforting flavors.
Thanks for joining me on Chelsea's K-Food Recipes—enjoy this traditional Korean classic, and stay tuned for more delicious dishes!