Step 1

First, let’s prepare all the ingredients. If you plan to add hard-boiled eggs, make sure they are boiled and ready before you start cooking.

Step 2

Rinse the tteokbokki rice cakes under cold running water and let them soak for at least 10 minutes. This step is crucial for preventing the rice cakes from becoming too hard and ensuring they absorb the sauce beautifully, resulting in a perfectly chewy and soft texture.

Step 3

Cut the fish cakes into bite-sized pieces, about 4×5 cm. Slice the green onion diagonally. I’ve cut mine into attractive triangular shapes for a nicer presentation.

Step 4

Now, let’s make a flavorful broth! In a pot or a wide pan, pour 3 cups (720ml) of fresh water and add the seafood broth packet. If you don’t have a broth packet, you can use a homemade broth made from anchovies and kelp.

Step 5

Once the water comes to a rolling boil, let it simmer for about 5 more minutes to extract the full flavor from the seafood broth packet. Then, remove and discard the packet. Your delicious base for the soup tteokbokki is now ready.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to medium-low. While the broth is simmering, add all the sauce ingredients: 2 Tbsp sugar, 2 Tbsp gochujang, 2 Tbsp gochugaru, 1 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 Tbsp corn syrup (or oligodang), and a pinch of black pepper. Stir well with a whisk or spoon until the ingredients are fully dissolved and there are no lumps. Ensuring the sauce is smoothly incorporated into the broth is key.

Step 7

Once the sauce is well combined, add the soaked tteokbokki rice cakes directly into the pot. Increase the heat to high and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the rice cakes to cook and absorb the flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice cakes from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 8

When the rice cakes are tender, add the prepared fish cakes and green onions. Continue to simmer, adjusting the broth’s consistency as needed. If it’s too thin, let it reduce a bit longer; if it’s too thick, you can add a little more water. If you’re using hard-boiled eggs, add them now to warm through.

Step 9

Once all ingredients are cooked through and the broth has reached your desired consistency, turn off the heat. Sprinkle a pinch of sesame seeds on top for added texture and nutty flavor. Your delicious Soup Tteokbokki is complete! Enjoy it by scooping up the chewy rice cakes along with plenty of the savory broth.

Step 10