Tteokguk Recipe – Make Traditional Rice Cake Soup Today!

Korean Tteokguk – A traditional rice cake soup enjoyed during Lunar New Year celebrations, symbolizing good luck and prosperity.

Tteokguk is a delicious and comforting Korean rice cake soup that is traditionally enjoyed during the Lunar New Year. This savory dish features a clear broth and chewy rice cakes, representing good fortune and renewal. Learn more about the cultural significance of Tteokguk here. The simple yet rich flavors combine to create a satisfying soup that warms both the body and soul. Preparing Tteokguk at home is easier than you might think, and this recipe will guide you step-by-step to achieve authentic taste and texture.

Cultural Significance of Tteokguk in Korea

Tteokguk holds a special place in Korean culture, symbolizing the start of a new year and the hope for prosperity. Eating Tteokguk for the Lunar New Year is believed to grant a person another year of life, marking the transition into maturity.

Tteokguk in ‘My Name’

In the popular series ‘My Name,’ the characters bond over a warm bowl of Tteokguk, emphasizing family ties and cultural heritage during celebrations.

Tteokguk in ‘Reply 1988’

‘Reply 1988’ showcases Tteokguk as a nostalgic food symbolizing togetherness and the warmth of home during the family gathering for New Year’s celebrations.

Recipe Overview – Ingredients & Prep for Tteokguk

This Tteokguk recipe is perfect for a family meal or a festive gathering.

• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Servings: 4
• Best Pairing: Kimchi or pickled vegetables

Ingredients & Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Tteokguk

Ingredients:

• Rice cakes (Tteok) – 400 g
• Beef (brisket) – 200 g
• Water – 1,500 ml
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Green onions – 2 stalks, chopped
• Salt – to taste
• Soy sauce – 30 ml
• Eggs – 2, beaten
• Sesame oil – 15 ml
• Black pepper – to taste

Instructions:

1. In a pot, combine the beef and water. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 20 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic, salt, and soy sauce to the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
3. While the broth is cooking, prepare the rice cakes by soaking them in warm water for about 20 minutes if they are hard.
4. Remove the beef, slice it thinly, and set aside.
5. In the same broth, add the soaked rice cakes and cook for around 5-7 minutes until they are tender.
6. Pour the beaten eggs gently into the pot, stirring slowly to create egg ribbons.
7. Add the green onions, sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
8. Serve the soup hot, garnished with the sliced beef and additional green onions if desired.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes for Tteokguk

Pro Tips:

• Use fresh rice cakes for the best texture. If unavailable, soak dried rice cakes in warm water.
• Adjust the broth’s flavor with extra soy sauce or salt to your preference.
• Keep the broth simmering gently to avoid overcooking the delicate rice cakes.

Common Mistakes:

• Overcooking the rice cakes can lead to a mushy texture, so monitor their cooking time carefully.
• Adding salt prematurely can make the broth overly salty, so add it towards the end.
• Not skimming the foam from the broth can affect the soup’s clarity and flavor.

Recommend More Korean Recipes – Explore Tteokguk

If you loved this Tteokguk recipe, you might enjoy other delicious Korean recipes! Try your hand at making Japchae or explore our guide on Korean BBQ. These dishes are perfect complements for a full Korean meal experience!

Now it’s your turn to try this traditional Tteokguk recipe at home. Share your cooking experience with friends and family, and enjoy the authentic flavors of Korea!