Soy Sauce Tteokbokki (간장 떡볶이, Soy Sauce Rice Cakes, Ganjang Tteokbokki)

Chelsea May 5, 2025

Welcome back to Chelsea’s K-Food Recipes! Today, we're making a non-spicy twist on a beloved Korean dish — Soy Sauce Tteokbokki (간장 떡볶이, Ganjang Tteokbokki).

This version keeps the chewy rice cakes and comforting texture of traditional tteokbokki, but swaps the spicy gochujang sauce for a rich and savory soy-based glaze. It’s perfect for kids, spice-sensitive eaters, or anyone trying Korean flavors for the first time. Let’s get started!

🍚 Ingredients

  • 300g Korean rice cakes (떡, tteok)
  • 1/2 onion, sliced
  • 1/2 carrot, julienned
  • 2–3 fish cakes (optional, bite-sized pieces)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional — for extra umami)
  • 1 tbsp sugar (or honey)
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 cup water or broth (vegetable or anchovy)
  • 1 green onion, chopped (garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (garnish)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Soften the Rice Cakes

If using refrigerated or frozen rice cakes, soak in warm water 10 minutes and drain.
Fresh rice cakes can be used as-is.

2️⃣ Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add onion and carrot, stir-frying 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.

3️⃣ Add Rice Cakes & Sauce

Add rice cakes and optional fish cakes.
Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce (optional), sugar, and water/broth.
Simmer 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens and rice cakes turn soft and chewy.

4️⃣ Finish & Serve

Remove from heat.
Top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Serve warm — with rice or enjoy as is!

💡 Tips for Perfect Soy Sauce Tteokbokki

  • Oyster sauce adds deep umami — highly recommended
  • Adjust sweetness to taste with sugar or honey
  • Add zucchini, mushrooms, or small pieces of chicken or beef for variety
  • Ideal for kids and non-spicy eaters

Soy Sauce Tteokbokki is savory, comforting, and bursting with umami — a delicious twist on the classic Korean favorite. The chewy rice cakes coated in a rich soy glaze make it a dish everyone can enjoy.

Thanks for visiting Chelsea’s K-Food Recipes — see you again soon for more easy and delicious Korean meals! 🇰🇷✨