Tteok-guk

Tteok-guk, a traditional Korean rice cake soup, is a staple dish typically enjoyed during the Lunar New Year celebration. This comforting dish symbolizes a fresh start and the gaining of another year in age. As the primary dish in Korean New Year’s celebrations, Tteok-guk holds historical significance dating back to the Joseon Dynasty, embodying the cultural importance of both rice cakes and soup in Korean cuisine. Today, Tteok-guk continues to be a beloved meal, cherished for its simplicity and depth of flavor.

Ingredients

• Rice cakes (tteok)
• Beef brisket
• Garlic
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Green onions
• Eggs
• Gim (seaweed)
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation

Rice Cakes

Start by soaking the rice cakes in cold water for about 30 minutes to soften them, allowing them to absorb the soup's flavors more efficiently.

Beef Broth

Take the beef brisket and rinse it under cold water to remove any blood or impurities. Boil it in a large pot of water for about 5 minutes. Drain and rinse the beef, then return it to the pot with fresh water. Add sliced garlic to the pot. Boil the beef again, skimming off any foam that rises to the top to maintain a clear broth. Simmer for about 2 hours or until the beef is very tender.

Egg Garnish

Separate the eggs, keeping the whites and yolks in different bowls. Beat them separately. Lightly oil a pan and cook a thin layer of egg white and yolk separately, creating yellow and white egg pancakes. Cool and slice them into thin strips for garnish.

Cooking Process

Once the broth is ready, remove the beef from the pot and season it with soy sauce, sesame oil, and pepper. Set this aside for later use. Strain the beef broth to ensure it is clear and free of any remaining solids.

Add the soaked rice cakes to the boiling broth, cooking them thoroughly. Allow them to float to the surface, indicating they are cooked through and soft. This step usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes.

Finely slice the green onions and add them to the pot along with a dash of salt and pepper to taste.

Final Touches

Serve the rice cake soup in bowls, garnished with the seasoned beef, egg strips, and finely sliced green onions. Toast a sheet of gim and cut it into strips for additional garnish, adding a crunchy texture contrast to the smooth, warm soup.

How to Enjoy Tteok-guk

Tteok-guk is best enjoyed hot, immediately after it is prepared to experience its full depth of flavors. Traditionally, a bowl of Tteok-guk not only signifies turning one more year older but also embodies warmth and happiness shared with loved ones during festive gatherings. Pair it with traditional Korean side dishes like kimchi or pickled radish for an enhanced culinary experience.

For those new to Korean cuisine, Tteok-guk offers a gentler introduction to the rich, diverse flavors of Korea. Its balance between the hearty, savory broth and soft, chewy rice cakes makes it a universally appealing dish.

With each spoonful, you’re invited to reflect on the new beginnings this dish symbolizes, making each bite both a cultural experience and a personal meditation on growth and age.

Don't forget to set your cooking timer at different stages for optimal results!