Seoul Tea Tteok

Description

Seoul Tea Tteok, also known simply as Korean rice cake, is a traditional delicacy cherished across South Korea. It is often served with tea, bringing together the subtle sweetness of rice with the invigorating warmth of tea. Dating back centuries, Tteok has been a staple in Korean culture, playing a central role in celebrations such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays. Its origins are deeply rooted in agricultural rituals and harvest festivals, making it much more than just a food; it is a cultural emblem. The process of making Tteok is therapeutic, requiring attention and care, much like a ceremonial preparation of tea.

Ingredients

1. Glutinous Rice Flour - 2 cups
2. Water - 1 cup
3. Salt - 1/4 teaspoon
4. Sugar - 2 tablespoons
5. Green Tea Powder - 1 tablespoon
6. Sesame Seeds - 2 tablespoons (for garnish)
7. Red Bean Paste - 1/2 cup (optional)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Lay out all your ingredients: glutinous rice flour, water, salt, sugar, green tea powder, and sesame seeds. Optionally, you can use red bean paste for filling or topping.

Step 2: Making the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, dissolve the green tea powder into the water until fully blended. Gradually pour the green tea mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. The mixture should form a smooth, sticky dough.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Steaming the Dough

Transfer the dough to a heatproof dish or steamer lined with cheesecloth or parchment paper. Flatten the surface of the dough for even cooking. Steam the dough over boiling water for about 30-40 minutes. Use a cooking timer to keep track of the time, ensuring that the dough cooks evenly.

Step 4: Shaping the Tteok

Once the steaming process is completed, let the dough cool slightly until it is safe to handle yet still pliable. Dust your hands with glutinous rice flour to prevent sticking. To enjoy a stuffed version, take a small piece of dough, flatten it in your palm, spoon a bit of red bean paste onto the center, and fold over to seal the edges.

Enjoying Seoul Tea Tteok

Step 5: Garnishing and Serving

Roll the prepared and cooled tteok in toasted sesame seeds for an added layer of flavor and texture. Tteok can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile snack. Pairing with tea is traditional; the earthy tones of green tea match beautifully with the soft, chewy tteok. It’s a perfect combination for an afternoon tea session or a shared moment with family and friends.

Whether you prepare Seoul Tea Tteok as a mid-day snack or as part of a special occasion, its meltingly soft texture and subtle sweetness are sure to bring joy to any gathering. This delicacy not only represents a taste of Korean culture but also provides a meditative practice in its preparation process, steeped in tradition and warmth.