Crispy Pan-Fried Tteokbokki: Spicy Korean Rice Cakes

Ingredients

• 8 oz Korean rice cakes (tteok)
• 1 1/2 tbsp gochujang (about 22 g)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp sesame oil
• 1 1/2 tbsp maple syrup (about 30 g) or 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 garlic clove, micro-grated (or 1/4 tsp garlic powder)
• 2–3 tsp gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes), adjust to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the rice cakes: If using frozen rice cakes, follow the package instructions to soften them in hot water. Fresh rice cakes only need a brief soak if they are slightly firm.
2. Make the sauce: While the rice cakes are softening, whisk together the gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup (or sugar), grated garlic, and gochugaru. Start with the lower amount of red pepper flakes and increase to your heat preference.
3. Pan-fry the rice cakes: Heat a non-stick pan over high heat and add a little neutral oil to coat the surface. Add the rice cakes and cook undisturbed for 1–2 minutes until the bottoms develop a golden, crispy crust. Flip and crisp the other side for another 1–2 minutes.
4. Combine and glaze: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the sauce to the pan and stir to coat the rice cakes evenly. Keep stirring for 1–2 minutes so the sauce clings and thickens slightly. If the mixture becomes too dry or starts to stick, add a splash of water and keep stirring until the sauce is glossy and the rice cakes are heated through.
5. Finish and serve: Remove from heat, transfer to a serving dish, and garnish with thinly sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately for the best contrast of crispy exterior and chewy center.

• To make a milder version, reduce or omit the gochugaru and add 1 1/2 tbsp ketchup to balance the flavor.
• For a sweeter glaze, increase the maple syrup or swap in brown sugar for a deeper caramel note.
• Rice cake texture varies by brand and freshness; adjust cooking time and heat so they crisp without becoming overly soft.
• Nutritional Information Disclaimer: Nutrition information is an estimate calculated using online tools and should be used as a rough guide only.