Special Tteokguk with Pan-Fried Tofu Patties and Fortune Pouches
Special Tteokguk with Pan-Fried Tofu Patties and Fortune Pouches
Lucky New Year’s Tteokguk: Tofu Patties & Fortune Pouches
Did you enjoy your New Year’s tteokguk? Next time, try making it extra special by adding pan-fried tofu patties! We’re also including a recipe for adorable fortune pouches made from fried tofu skin, perfect for a festive touch. This tteokguk is not just delicious but also visually delightful, bringing good fortune to your table.
Tteokguk Ingredients- 1 kg Tteokguk rice cakes
- 400 g Beef sirloin (or similar tender cut)
- 1 bunch Scallions or Green Onions
- 1 block Firm Tofu (for pan-frying, approx. 300g)
- 5-6 sheets Fried Tofu Skin Pouches (aburaage)
- 5-6 Candied Chestnuts (small)
Tofu Patty Seasoning & Broth- 3 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- Pinch of Black Pepper
- 1 cup Water (for soaking tofu)
- Water (as needed for simmering beef)
- 2.5-3 liters Water (for boiling tteokguk, adjust to rice cake amount)
- 1-2 Eggs (for tofu coating, optional)
- 3 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- Pinch of Black Pepper
- 1 cup Water (for soaking tofu)
- Water (as needed for simmering beef)
- 2.5-3 liters Water (for boiling tteokguk, adjust to rice cake amount)
- 1-2 Eggs (for tofu coating, optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Rinse the tteokguk rice cakes under cold water. If they are frozen, place them in cold water about 30 minutes before cooking to thaw naturally. Avoid cooking frozen rice cakes directly as they might break or split.
Step 2
Thoroughly wash the scallions or green onions. Separate the root ends; these will be used to enhance the broth’s flavor. Trim off any excess roots.
Step 3
Thinly slice the remaining green parts of the scallions. These will be used as a fresh garnish for the tteokguk.
Step 4
Cut the firm tofu into long strips, about 1 cm thick. Keeping them slightly thick prevents them from breaking apart too easily during cooking.
Step 5
Pat the beef sirloin dry with paper towels to remove any excess blood and moisture. This step is crucial for a clear broth and to minimize any gamey odor. Press gently until no more liquid transfers to the towel.
Step 6
Cut the dried beef into bite-sized cubes (about 1.5-2 cm). This size is perfect for enjoying in the soup.
Step 7
Place the cubed beef in a pot and add just enough water to cover it (simmering water). Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 20 minutes. If the water evaporates too much during simmering, add a little more hot water. This gently cooks the beef, making it tender.
Step 8
Heat a frying pan with a generous amount of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Place the tofu strips in the pan and fry until golden brown and slightly crisp on both sides. A slightly crisp exterior will help the tofu hold its shape in the soup.
Step 9
Once cooled slightly, cut the pan-fried tofu into bite-sized pieces, similar in size to the rice cakes. This ensures a pleasant texture in every spoonful.
Step 10
In a medium bowl, combine the cut tofu with 1 cup of water, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, and a pinch of pepper. Gently toss to coat the tofu. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors. (Optional: For a richer flavor and texture, you can dip the tofu in beaten egg before pan-frying).
Step 11
Carefully cut open the fried tofu skin pouches. Place 1-2 candied chestnuts inside each pouch. Gather the edges of the pouch to enclose the chestnut, forming a small bundle. Secure the opening by tying it with a thin strip of blanched scallion or leek. Tie them securely so they don’t unravel during cooking.
Step 12
These charming fortune pouches are designed to add visual appeal and a symbolic touch to your tteokguk. They represent the wish for good fortune and abundance in the New Year. Make them with care and festive spirit!
Step 13
Add the marinated tofu and all the soaking liquid from the bowl into the pot with the simmered beef. Stir in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and continue to simmer over medium-low heat for another 15 minutes. This allows the tofu to absorb the savory beef broth, creating delicious tofu patties.
Step 14
In a separate pot, add the prepared tteokguk rice cakes. Pour in plenty of water (about 2.5-3 liters) to cover the rice cakes generously. Add the cleaned scallion roots to the pot; they will infuse the broth with a subtle, aromatic flavor.
Step 15
Cook until the rice cakes are soft and chewy. Once the rice cakes are cooked, remove and discard the scallion roots. Ladle the tteokguk into serving bowls. Season the broth with a tiny splash of soy sauce and salt to your preference. Generously top each bowl with a portion of the cooked tofu patties.
Step 16
Your special Tteokguk with Pan-Fried Tofu Patties and Fortune Pouches is ready! For an extra festive touch, place 1-2 of the handmade fortune pouches on top. ^^ Wishing you a healthy, happy, and prosperous New Year!
