Korean rice cakes, also known as “tteok” in Korean, are a staple ingredient in Korean cuisine. They are made from glutinous rice flour and are known for their chewy texture and neutral flavor. Frozen rice cakes are a convenient alternative to fresh ones, and they can be cooked in a variety of ways. In this article, we will explore the different methods of cooking frozen rice cakes Korean style.
Understanding Korean Rice Cakes
Before we dive into the cooking methods, it’s essential to understand the different types of Korean rice cakes. There are several varieties, each with its own unique texture and flavor. Some common types of Korean rice cakes include:
- Tteokbokki tteok: These are the most common type of rice cakes used in Korean cuisine. They are cylindrical in shape and have a chewy texture.
- Odeng tteok: These rice cakes are shaped like a fish cake and are typically used in soups and stews.
- Yaksik tteok: These rice cakes are sweet and are typically used in desserts.
Cooking Methods for Frozen Rice Cakes
There are several ways to cook frozen rice cakes Korean style. Here are a few methods:
Boiling
Boiling is a simple and quick way to cook frozen rice cakes. To boil frozen rice cakes, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Rinse the rice cakes: Rinse the frozen rice cakes in cold water to remove any impurities.
- Step 2: Boil the rice cakes: Place the rice cakes in a pot of boiling water and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
- Step 3: Drain and rinse: Drain the rice cakes and rinse them in cold water to stop the cooking process.
Pan-Frying
Pan-frying is a great way to add texture and flavor to frozen rice cakes. To pan-fry frozen rice cakes, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Heat oil in a pan: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Step 2: Add the rice cakes: Add the frozen rice cakes to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.
- Step 3: Season with salt and pepper: Season the rice cakes with salt and pepper to taste.
Steaming
Steaming is a healthy way to cook frozen rice cakes without adding any extra oil. To steam frozen rice cakes, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Place the rice cakes in a steamer basket: Place the frozen rice cakes in a steamer basket over boiling water.
- Step 2: Steam the rice cakes: Steam the rice cakes for 10-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
- Step 3: Serve: Serve the steamed rice cakes hot with your favorite sauce or seasoning.
Popular Korean Dishes Using Frozen Rice Cakes
Frozen rice cakes are a versatile ingredient and can be used in a variety of Korean dishes. Here are a few popular Korean dishes using frozen rice cakes:
Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food dish made with frozen rice cakes, fish cake, and a sweet and spicy sauce. To make tteokbokki, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Cook the rice cakes: Cook the frozen rice cakes according to the package instructions.
- Step 2: Prepare the sauce: Prepare the tteokbokki sauce by mixing gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
- Step 3: Assemble the dish: Assemble the dish by placing the cooked rice cakes and fish cake in a bowl and pouring the tteokbokki sauce over the top.
Odeng Soup
Odeng soup is a popular Korean soup made with frozen rice cakes, fish cake, and a savory broth. To make odeng soup, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Cook the rice cakes: Cook the frozen rice cakes according to the package instructions.
- Step 2: Prepare the broth: Prepare the broth by mixing dashi, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Step 3: Assemble the dish: Assemble the dish by placing the cooked rice cakes and fish cake in a bowl and pouring the broth over the top.
Conclusion
Cooking frozen rice cakes Korean style is a simple and delicious way to add variety to your meals. With a few simple ingredients and cooking methods, you can create a variety of Korean dishes using frozen rice cakes. Whether you prefer boiling, pan-frying, or steaming, there’s a method to suit your taste and preference. So next time you’re in the mood for something new and exciting, try cooking frozen rice cakes Korean style!
What are Korean rice cakes and how are they typically used in cooking?
Korean rice cakes, also known as “tteok” in Korean, are small, cylindrical-shaped cakes made from glutinous or sticky rice flour. They are a staple ingredient in Korean cuisine and are often used in soups, stews, and stir-fries. Korean rice cakes have a chewy texture and a neutral flavor, making them a versatile ingredient that can absorb the flavors of other ingredients.
In Korean cooking, rice cakes are often used as a main ingredient or as a complement to other ingredients. They can be boiled, steamed, pan-fried, or deep-fried, and are often served with a variety of sauces and seasonings. Korean rice cakes are also a popular ingredient in Korean street food, where they are often grilled or pan-fried and served with a sweet and spicy sauce.
Can I use fresh rice cakes instead of frozen ones?
While it is possible to use fresh rice cakes instead of frozen ones, frozen rice cakes are often preferred because they are easier to store and have a longer shelf life. Fresh rice cakes are more perishable and must be used within a day or two of purchase, whereas frozen rice cakes can be stored for several months.
Using frozen rice cakes also makes it easier to achieve the right texture when cooking. Frozen rice cakes are typically firmer and more dense than fresh ones, which makes them easier to pan-fry or boil without breaking apart. Fresh rice cakes, on the other hand, can be softer and more prone to breaking apart when cooked.
How do I thaw frozen rice cakes?
To thaw frozen rice cakes, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours or thaw them in cold water. It’s best to thaw frozen rice cakes slowly and gently to prevent them from becoming mushy or sticky. Avoid thawing frozen rice cakes in hot water or in the microwave, as this can cause them to become overcooked or unevenly textured.
Once thawed, frozen rice cakes can be used immediately in cooking. If you don’t plan to use them right away, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. Make sure to pat the rice cakes dry with a paper towel before storing them to prevent moisture from accumulating.
What is the best way to cook frozen rice cakes?
The best way to cook frozen rice cakes is to pan-fry them in a little oil until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. This method brings out the natural sweetness of the rice cakes and gives them a satisfying crunch. To pan-fry frozen rice cakes, simply heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat, add the rice cakes, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.
Alternatively, you can also boil or steam frozen rice cakes for a softer and more tender texture. To boil frozen rice cakes, simply add them to a pot of boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface. To steam frozen rice cakes, place them in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
Can I add seasonings or sauces to frozen rice cakes while they are cooking?
Yes, you can add seasonings or sauces to frozen rice cakes while they are cooking to give them extra flavor. In fact, this is a common practice in Korean cooking, where rice cakes are often cooked in a flavorful broth or sauce. To add seasonings or sauces to frozen rice cakes, simply add them to the pan or pot along with the rice cakes and cook until the seasonings are absorbed.
Some popular seasonings and sauces to add to frozen rice cakes include soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and gochujang (Korean chili paste). You can also add aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery to the pan for added flavor. Experiment with different seasonings and sauces to find the combination that you enjoy the most.
How do I store leftover cooked rice cakes?
To store leftover cooked rice cakes, simply place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and store for up to 3 days. Cooked rice cakes can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze cooked rice cakes, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
When reheating leftover cooked rice cakes, simply pan-fry them in a little oil until crispy and golden brown, or microwave them for 20-30 seconds until warmed through. You can also add leftover cooked rice cakes to soups or stews for added texture and flavor.
Can I use frozen rice cakes in other types of cuisine besides Korean?
While frozen rice cakes are a staple ingredient in Korean cuisine, they can also be used in other types of cuisine, such as Chinese, Japanese, and Southeast Asian cooking. In fact, rice cakes are a common ingredient in many Asian cuisines, where they are often used in soups, stews, and stir-fries.
To use frozen rice cakes in other types of cuisine, simply substitute them for other types of noodles or starches, such as rice or udon noodles. You can also experiment with different seasonings and sauces to give frozen rice cakes a unique flavor. For example, you can add soy sauce and ginger for a Chinese-inspired flavor, or coconut milk and curry powder for a Southeast Asian-inspired flavor.