Welcome back to Chelsea's K-Food Recipes! Today, we’re making a non-spicy version of a Korean classic—Soy Sauce Tteokbokki (간장 떡볶이, Ganjang Tteokbokki). This dish has all the chewy goodness of traditional tteokbokki but with a rich soy sauce flavor instead of the usual spicy gochujang. Because it’s not spicy, it’s perfect for kids and anyone who might not be familiar with Korean cuisine. The umami-packed sauce is absolutely delicious and comforting. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 300g Korean rice cakes (떡, tteok)
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 1/2 carrot, julienned
- 2-3 fish cakes (optional, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for extra umami)
- 1 tbsp sugar (or honey for a milder sweetness)
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 cup water or broth (vegetable or anchovy)
- 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice Cakes
- If using refrigerated or frozen rice cakes, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften. Drain and set aside.
- Fresh rice cakes can be used directly without soaking.
2. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the sliced onion and carrot, stir-frying until they begin to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the Rice Cakes and Sauce
- Add the softened rice cakes and fish cakes (if using) to the pan with the vegetables.
- Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sugar, and water or broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the rice cakes are tender and chewy.
4. Garnish and Serve
- Once the rice cakes are fully cooked, remove the pan from heat.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Serve hot and enjoy with a bowl of white rice or on its own!
Tips for Perfect Ganjang Tteokbokki:
- This version is mild but incredibly flavorful thanks to the soy sauce and optional oyster sauce, making it great for kids and those who aren’t fans of spicy food.
- You can add any vegetables or protein you like, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or even small pieces of beef or chicken.
- Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less sugar or honey.
Soy Sauce Tteokbokki is a savory, rich, and non-spicy alternative to the classic spicy version. The soy sauce-based sauce provides a deep umami flavor, making this dish a huge hit for both kids and non-Koreans who are trying Korean food for the first time. The chewy rice cakes combined with the flavorful sauce make for an irresistible dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Thank you for visiting Chelsea's K-Food Recipes—stay tuned for more delicious, easy-to-make Korean dishes!