Tteokbokki on a Stick

What Started it all:
Tteobokki on a stick
Tteokbokki, a popular Korean street food, is made from chewy rice cakes cooked in a spicy, sweet sauce. This recipe puts a fun twist on the classic dish by serving the tteokbokki on a stick, making it a perfect party snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 400g Korean rice cakes (tteok)
- 4 wooden skewers
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon corn syrup (or honey)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green onion, chopped for garnish
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice Cakes: If the rice cakes are hard, soak them in warm water for about 10-15 minutes until they soften. Drain and set aside.
- Skewer the Rice Cakes: Thread the softened rice cakes onto the wooden skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
- Cook the Rice Cakes: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the skewered rice cakes and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are slightly crispy and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the water, gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, sugar, corn syrup, and minced garlic. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Coat the Rice Cakes: Return the skewered rice cakes to the skillet and gently toss them in the sauce, making sure they are well coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skewers from the skillet and place them on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately while hot.
Tteokbokki on a stick is a delightful and fun way to enjoy this classic Korean dish. The combination of chewy rice cakes and the rich, spicy sauce is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy!