Tteokguk (떡국) is a traditional Korean dish enjoyed especially during the Lunar New Year (Seollal) to celebrate the start of a new year. This savory soup features thinly sliced rice cakes (tteok) simmered in a flavorful beef broth. The dish is not only delicious but also carries significant cultural importance, symbolizing the idea of gaining a year of age and wishing for good fortune in the coming year.
Ingredients Needed
For the Broth:
- 8 cups of water
- 300 grams of beef brisket or beef shank
- 1 onion, halved
- 2 cloves of garlic, smashed
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
For the Tteokguk:
- 500 grams of thinly sliced rice cakes (tteok)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1 sheet of dried seaweed (nori), cut into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds
- 1-2 red chilies, sliced (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Broth:
- In a large pot, add 8 cups of water and beef brisket or shank. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, skim off any foam that rises to the surface. Add the halved onion and smashed garlic cloves.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Remove the beef from the pot, shred it into small pieces, and return it to the pot. Discard the onion and garlic.
- Season the broth with soy sauce, salt, and sesame oil. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Prepare the Tteok (Rice Cakes):
- Rinse the rice cakes in cold water to remove any excess starch. If the rice cakes are frozen, thaw them before using.
- Add the rice cakes to the simmering broth and cook for about 10 minutes, until they become soft and tender.
Make the Egg Garnish:
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Pour in the beaten eggs, creating a thin omelet.
- Cook until set, then remove from the pan and slice into thin strips.
Finish the Soup:
- In the same pan, add a bit of sesame oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add this to the soup.
- Stir in the chopped green onions and season with additional soy sauce, salt, and pepper if needed.
Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with the egg strips, seaweed, sesame seeds, and red chili slices if using.
- Serve immediately for the best taste.
Tips
- Broth Depth: For a richer broth, consider simmering the beef with additional anchovy stock or a few dried shiitake mushrooms.
- Rice Cake Freshness: If using dried or frozen rice cakes, soak them in warm water for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure they soften properly.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like sliced mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Variations
- Kimchi Tteokguk: For a spicy twist, add a spoonful of kimchi or kimchi juice to the broth.
- Vegetarian Tteokguk: Substitute beef with vegetable broth and use mushrooms or tofu as a protein source.
- Spicy Tteokguk: Incorporate a small amount of Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru) for a bit of heat.
Caloric Information
A typical serving of Tteokguk (about 1 bowl) contains approximately 300-400 calories. This can vary based on the amount of beef, rice cakes, and any additional ingredients used. Tteokguk is generally a hearty and satisfying dish, making it a great choice for a comforting meal.
Conclusion
Tteokguk is more than just a delicious soup; it's a dish rich in tradition and culture. Making it from scratch allows you to experience the authentic taste and warmth that this Korean classic offers. Whether you're celebrating Seollal or simply craving a comforting meal, Tteokguk is sure to bring joy to your table. Enjoy this traditional dish with your loved ones and make it a part of your culinary repertoire.
