Crispy & Sweet Spicy Korean Rice Cake Skewers (Tteokkochi)

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Introduction

Tteokkochi is a popular Korean street food snack made by pan-frying chewy rice cakes on skewers until golden and crispy, then coating them with a sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy red sauce. Nostalgic, addictive, and incredibly easy to prepare at home, it is a fun treat enjoyed by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

  • Main Ingredients:
    • 20–24 Cylinder rice cakes (tteokbokki-tteok)
    • Wooden skewers
    • 2–3 tbsp Vegetable oil (for pan-frying)
    • 1/2 tbsp Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
    • 1 tbsp Fine chopped green onions or peanuts (optional)
  • Sweet & Spicy Glaze Sauce:
    • 1 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
    • 2 tbsp Ketchup
    • 1.5 tbsp Honey (or corn syrup)
    • 1 tbsp Sugar
    • 1 tbsp Soy sauce
    • 1/2 tbsp Minced garlic
    • 1/2 tbsp Sesame oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice Cakes:If using refrigerated or frozen rice cakes, soak them in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes until soft. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel to prevent oil splattering while frying.
  2. Assemble Skewers:Thread 4 to 5 rice cakes side-by-side onto each wooden skewer.
  3. Make the Sauce:In a small bowl, mix Gochujang, ketchup, honey, sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and sesame oil together until smooth.
  4. Pan-Fry Skewers:Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the rice cake skewers in the pan and fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side until the exterior becomes golden and crunchy while remaining soft inside.
  5. Glaze and Serve:Remove skewers from the pan. Brush both sides generously with the sweet and spicy sauce using a pastry brush. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped peanuts or green onions. Serve warm immediately!

Chef’s Pro Tips

  • Dry Thoroughly: Moisture causes hot oil to splatter! Always dry the soaked rice cakes thoroughly before pan-frying.
  • Ketchup Balance: The combination of Gochujang and ketchup gives this sauce its signature child-friendly, nostalgic street-food taste rather than overwhelming heat.
  • Air Fryer Alternative: You can also brush the skewers with oil and air-fry them at 180°C (350°F) for 7 to 8 minutes before brushing on the glaze.

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