Cheese Tteokbokki

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Cheese Tteokbokki is a comforting and indulgent twist on the classic Korean street food. Tteokbokki, traditionally made with chewy rice cakes and a spicy-sweet gochujang (Korean chili paste) sauce, is transformed with a rich, gooey layer of melted cheese that perfectly balances out the heat and adds a creamy texture. The dish combines the savory flavors of the rice cakes, the sweet and spicy sauce, and the melty cheese for a truly satisfying experience.

The first time I made Cheese Tteokbokki, I was craving something hearty and comforting, and this dish did not disappoint! The chewy rice cakes soaked up the spicy sauce, while the cheese added a wonderful richness and creaminess. What I love most about this recipe is how the cheese helps mellow out the spiciness of the dish, creating a perfect balance of flavors. You can even add in extras like fish cakes, boiled eggs, or veggies for added depth. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal or a fun snack, Cheese Tteokbokki is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Perfect for:

  • Quick weeknight meals
  • Movie nights
  • Comfort food cravings
  • Korean food enthusiasts
  • Cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why Cheese Tteokbokki will become your new favorite dish:

  • Cheese Overload: The creamy melted cheese perfectly complements the spicy rice cakes for a flavor-packed bite.
  • Bold, Spicy Kick: Gochujang provides just the right level of heat, balancing the richness of the cheese.
  • Comforting and Filling: The chewy rice cakes make for a hearty, satisfying meal that keeps you full and happy.
  • Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight option.
  • Customizable Heat: Adjust the amount of gochujang to control the spice level to your liking.
  • Perfect for Sharing: This dish is a fun, shareable comfort food that’s sure to please everyone.
  • Creamy and Savory: The addition of cheese brings a luxurious creaminess that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap the rice cakes with a gluten-free alternative for a delicious, gluten-free version.
  • Easy to Make Ahead: Prepare the rice cakes and sauce ahead of time and just add the cheese when you’re ready to serve.
  • Street Food Vibes at Home: Recreate the flavors of Korean street food right in your kitchen.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 55g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

For the Tteokbokki Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup water or broth

The Tteokbokki:

  • 1 lb (450g) chewy rice cakes (tteok)
  • 1/2 cup fish cakes, sliced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Optional Garnish:

  • Chopped green onions
  • Sesame seeds
  • Red pepper flakes

Ingredient Highlights

  • Gochujang: The essential spicy and savory ingredient that gives tteokbokki its signature heat and flavor.
  • Chewy Rice Cakes: The traditional base of tteokbokki, providing a unique texture that makes the dish special.
  • Mozzarella and Cheddar: These cheeses melt beautifully to create a creamy sauce that coats the rice cakes perfectly.
  • Fish Cakes: A classic addition to tteokbokki for extra flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Tteokbokki Sauce:

  1. Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and water or broth. Stir until well blended.

Cook the Rice Cakes:

  1. Soak Rice Cakes: If using dried rice cakes, soak them in water for 30 minutes to rehydrate. If using fresh rice cakes, skip this step.
  2. Sauté Fish Cakes (Optional): In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the fish cakes and cook until slightly golden. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Cook Rice Cakes: In the same skillet, add the remaining vegetable oil and the soaked rice cakes. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they begin to get a little crispy on the outside.

Add the Sauce:

  1. Combine Sauce and Rice Cakes: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the rice cakes. Stir to coat evenly. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice cakes are soft and the sauce thickens.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

  1. Melt Butter and Cream: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
  2. Add Cheese: Once the cream is heated through, lower the heat and stir in mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Combine and Serve:

  1. Add Cheese Sauce: Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the cooked rice cakes. Stir until everything is well coated.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Cheese Tteokbokki:

  • As a Quick Dinner: Perfect for a weeknight meal when you need something filling and comforting.
  • With Kimchi: Serve alongside a bowl of kimchi for a classic Korean meal.
  • For a Cozy Movie Night: Serve in bowls with a side of popcorn for a Korean-themed movie night.
  • As a Street Food Snack: Enjoy it as a fun street food-style snack when you’re craving something savory and cheesy.
  • With Fried Eggs: Top with a fried egg for extra protein and richness.
  • For Sharing: Serve it family-style for a fun, shareable meal with friends or loved ones.
  • With Pickled Vegetables: Add pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast to the richness of the cheese.
  • As an Appetizer: Serve as a starter before your main course at a Korean-inspired dinner party.
  • With Crispy Tofu: Add crispy tofu cubes for a vegetarian version of the dish.
  • For Lunch Leftovers: Make extra and enjoy it for lunch the next day!

Additional Tips

  • Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of gochujang and add a little extra sugar.
  • Use a Non-stick Skillet: This helps prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan as it simmers.
  • Rehydrate Rice Cakes: If your rice cakes are too firm, soak them in water for longer to get them soft and chewy.
  • Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh, straight from the pan.

Recipe Variations

  • Vegan Cheese Tteokbokki: Use plant-based cheese and swap the heavy cream with coconut cream for a vegan-friendly version.
  • Spicy Tuna Tteokbokki: Add a can of spicy tuna for a seafood twist.
  • Mushroom Tteokbokki: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
  • Sweet and Spicy: Add a tablespoon of honey to the sauce for a sweeter, more balanced flavor.
  • Vegetarian Version: Skip the fish cakes and use extra vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini.
  • Cheese Tteokbokki with Ramen: Add cooked ramen noodles to the dish for a heartier, more filling meal.

Special Equipment

  • Non-stick Skillet: To prevent the sauce from sticking while cooking.
  • Saucepan: For making the creamy cheese sauce.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To stir the rice cakes and sauce without damaging them.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    Yes, you can substitute mozzarella or cheddar with your favorite melting cheese, like gouda or provolone.
  2. How long does this dish last?
    Tteokbokki is best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
  3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
    Absolutely! Skip the fish cakes and load it up with your favorite veggies.
  4. Can I freeze Tteokbokki?
    It’s not ideal to freeze tteokbokki, as the rice cakes may lose their texture when reheated.
  5. Can I use a different type of rice cake?
    Yes, there are various types of rice cakes available, so feel free to experiment. Just ensure they are chewy and suitable for stir-frying.
  6. What if I can’t find gochujang?
    You can substitute with a combination of chili paste and a little sugar, though it won’t be quite the same.
  7. Can I add more cheese?
    Yes! Add more mozzarella or even parmesan for an extra cheesy experience.
  8. Can I add meat to this dish?
    Yes, you can add cooked chicken, beef, or chicken for additional protein.
  9. Is this dish spicy?
    Yes, it has a mild to medium spice level, but you can adjust the heat to suit your preference.
  10. Can I use a different type of sauce?
    While gochujang is key to the authentic flavor, you can experiment with other spicy sauces if you’re in a pinch.

Conclusion

Cheese Tteokbokki is the perfect comfort food, combining the rich creaminess of melted cheese with the bold, spicy flavors of gochujang. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying—ideal for any occasion when you want something indulgent. Whether you’re a fan of Korean cuisine or just love cheesy dishes, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Treat yourself to this indulgent dish and experience the magic of cheesy, spicy rice cakes!