The Story of Tteokbokki: Korea's Iconic Street Food
When it comes to Korean Street Food, one dish reigns supreme – Tteokbokki. Spicy, chewy, and packed with flavor, this beloved dish is a must-try for anyone exploring the world of Korean food. But have you ever wondered how this dish became the street food icon it is today? Let’s dive into the fascinating history and evolution of Tteokbokki!
The Origins of Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki, which literally means "stir-fried rice cakes," has been a part of Korean cuisine for centuries. The earliest form of Tteokbokki, called "Gungjung Tteokbokki" (궁중떡볶이), dates back to the Joseon Dynasty.
Unlike today's spicy version, this royal dish was made with soy sauce, beef, vegetables, and a mild, savory flavor. It was a luxurious meal served in the royal court, enjoyed by the Korean elite.
The Birth of Spicy Tteokbokki
The transformation of Tteokbokki into the fiery red dish we know today happened in the 1950s. There is a popular story about a woman named Ma Bok-lim, who ran a small restaurant in Seoul. According to this tale, she accidentally dropped rice cakes into a spicy red pepper paste (gochujang) sauce, leading to the birth of modern Tteokbokki. Whether by accident or culinary innovation, spicy Tteokbokki quickly became a favorite Korean Street Food, sold in markets and food stalls across the country.
The Many Faces of Tteokbokki
Today, Tteokbokki comes in many different varieties, each offering a unique twist on the classic dish:
Classic Spicy Tteokbokki – The most popular version, made with chewy rice cakes, fish cakes, boiled eggs, and a rich gochujang-based sauce.
Cheese Tteokbokki – A modern twist that adds melted cheese for a creamy, indulgent experience.
Rosé Tteokbokki – A fusion dish that combines gochujang sauce with cream, creating a mild and creamy flavor.
Jajang Tteokbokki – Made with black bean paste, giving it a deep, savory taste.
Carbonara Tteokbokki – Inspired by Italian pasta, this version includes cream, bacon, and parmesan cheese.
Why Tteokbokki is the Ultimate Korean Street Food
There’s a reason why Tteokbokki is found in almost every Korean restaurant and street food market. It’s affordable, easy to eat on the go, and incredibly satisfying. The combination of spicy, sweet, and savoury flavours makes it addictive, while the chewy texture of the rice cakes adds to its appeal. Whether eaten alone or paired with crispy fried foods like corndogs and fried chicken, Tteokbokki is a staple of Korean street food culture.
Where to Enjoy Authentic Tteokbokki in Calgary, Alberta
If you’re craving delicious Korean Street Food, look no further than HANKKi! Our Tteokbokki is made with authentic ingredients, delivering the perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and chewiness.
Available at all HANKKi locations, our Tteokbokki is the ultimate comfort food for anyone who loves Korean food. Stop by and experience the irresistible flavours of this classic dish today! 🍽️🔥
For an even better experience, try eating tteokbokki with a Korean corndog. The crispy, slightly sweet batter of the corndog complements the spicy and chewy tteokbokki perfectly. Adding cheese to the mix enhances the flavour even more, creating an indulgent and satisfying combination.
Click [HERE] to order now and satisfy your cravings!
