I have always been fascinated by Korean cuisine. The rich flavors, vibrant colors, and unique ingredients make it a culinary experience like no other. One dish that has particularly caught my attention is Tteokbokki, a beloved street food in Korea. Traditionally, it is made by simmering rice cakes in a spicy gochujang-based sauce. However, I recently discovered a quick and easy way to cook Tteokbokki in the microwave, and I must say, it has become my go-to recipe when I’m craving a taste of Korea at home.
Gathering the Ingredients
Before we dive into the step-by-step process of cooking Tteokbokki in the microwave, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Rice Cakes:
Tteokbokki is all about the chewy rice cakes, or tteok. You can find them in most Asian grocery stores, and they come in various shapes and sizes. For this recipe, I recommend using the cylindrical-shaped rice cakes, as they cook evenly in the microwave.
– Water:
Water is essential for cooking the rice cakes and creating the saucy base of Tteokbokki.
– Gochujang:
Gochujang is a staple Korean chili paste that adds a spicy and slightly sweet flavor to the dish. Look for it in the Asian aisle of your local supermarket or in specialty stores.
– Soy Sauce:
Soy sauce adds depth and richness to the sauce. It complements the spiciness of gochujang and balances the overall taste.
– Sugar:
A touch of sugar helps to balance the flavors and tame the heat from the chili paste. Adjust the amount according to your preference.
– Garlic and Onion:
Garlic and onion are the aromatic base for the sauce. They add depth of flavor and fragrance to the dish.
– Optional Add-ons:
Feel free to customize your Tteokbokki by adding your favorite ingredients. Some popular options include fish cakes, boiled eggs, and vegetables like cabbage or carrots.
The Step-by-Step Process
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of cooking Tteokbokki in the microwave:
Step 1: Prep the Rice Cakes
Start by soaking the rice cakes in cold water for about 15 minutes. This will help to soften them and ensure they cook evenly. Once they have softened, drain the water and set the rice cakes aside.
Step 2: Create the Sauce
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of gochujang, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients and dissolve the sugar.
Step 3: Microwave on High
Place the bowl with the sauce mixture in the microwave and cook on high for 2 minutes. This will help to infuse the flavors and create a rich base for the Tteokbokki.
Step 4: Add the Rice Cakes
Carefully add the soaked rice cakes to the bowl with the sauce mixture. Ensure they are fully submerged in the liquid, as this will help them cook evenly. If you’re adding any additional ingredients, such as fish cakes or vegetables, this is the time to add them as well.
Step 5: Cook in Intervals
Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave the mixture on high for 3 minutes intervals, checking and stirring the Tteokbokki after each interval. Continue microwaving and stirring until the rice cakes are cooked and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. This can take anywhere between 9 to 15 minutes, depending on the power of your microwave.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Once the rice cakes are tender and the sauce is thick and glossy, your Tteokbokki is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it hot, garnished with sliced green onions for a pop of freshness.
A Quick and Easy Korean Delight
Cooking Tteokbokki in the microwave is not only quick and easy but also incredibly delicious. The chewy rice cakes coated in the spicy and flavorful sauce make for a delightful dish that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Korea. So the next time you’re craving a taste of Korean cuisine, give this microwave recipe a try and savor the flavors of Tteokbokki right from the comfort of your own kitchen.