Honey Butter Tteokbokki is a delightful twist on a classic Korean street food staple. This dish combines the chewy texture of rice cakes with a rich, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce that leaves your taste buds dancing with excitement. You can make this flavorful dish as a mesmerizing snack or a side dish that never fails to impress.
Why We Love This Honey Butter Tteokbokki Recipe
What makes this Honey Butter Tteokbokki so irresistible is its perfect balance of flavors. The buttery richness beautifully complements the natural sweetness of honey, while the gochujang adds that signature Korean heat, making each bite deliciously captivating. It’s a unique take on traditional tteokbokki that captivates both seasoned fans and new lovers of Korean cuisine. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.
Ingredients about Honey Butter Tteokbokki
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this scrumptious Honey Butter Tteokbokki. Gather these ingredients to bring the delightful flavors of this dish to life.
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 300g rice cakes (tteok)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)
How to Make Honey Butter Tteokbokki Directions
Making Honey Butter Tteokbokki is a simple and fun process. Don’t worry; you don’t need to be an expert chef to create this delicious dish. Here’s how you can do it step-by-step.
- Soak the Rice Cakes: Start by soaking the rice cakes in warm water for about 20-30 minutes. This step is essential, especially if the rice cakes are hard. Soaking helps to soften them, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Melt the Butter: In a large skillet, place it over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Let it melt gently, filling your kitchen with a lovely buttery aroma.
- Mix in the Ingredients: Once the butter has melted, add the honey, gochujang, and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined and heated through. The sauce should start to thicken slightly, creating a beautiful blend.
- Add the Rice Cakes: Drain the soaked rice cakes and add them directly to the sauce in the skillet. Use tongs or a spatula to toss the rice cakes gently in the sauce. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring that the rice cakes are heated throughout and begin to caramelize slightly. This step will enhance the flavor and texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the rice cakes are cooked, your Honey Butter Tteokbokki is ready to serve. Plate the dish while it’s hot, and sprinkle sesame seeds on top along with slices of green onions for that extra touch. The vibrant colors will make it even more inviting!
How to Serve Honey Butter Tteokbokki
When it comes to serving Honey Butter Tteokbokki, presentation is key! This dish shines best when served fresh and hot. You can serve it in individual bowls or on a large platter for sharing.
Consider pairing it with a side of pickled vegetables or a refreshing salad to balance the richness of the tteokbokki. It’s also a fantastic party snack; simply place some toothpicks next to the platter, allowing your guests to help themselves. Don’t forget to have some extra sesame seeds and green onions available for individuals to add more garnish if they desire. The combination of flavors and textures will create a delightful experience for everyone!
Expert Tips: Honey Butter Tteokbokki
To ensure your Honey Butter Tteokbokki turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Choosing Rice Cakes: Look for fresh rice cakes at your local Asian grocery store. If you can only find dried ones, soaking them longer may be necessary.
- Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, start with less gochujang. You can always add more later according to your taste preferences.
- Sweetness Balance: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey based on your preference. Some may want it sweeter, while others might enjoy a more subtle sweetness.
- Stirring Frequently: When cooking the rice cakes in the sauce, be sure to stir frequently. This way, the sauce evenly coats the cakes, resulting in rich flavor in every bite.
- Serving Immediately: This dish tastes best when served right away. Leftovers can become a bit sticky, so enjoy them fresh for the ultimate experience!
How to Store Honey Butter Tteokbokki
If you find yourself with leftover Honey Butter Tteokbokki, you can store it easily. Allow it to cool down to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. Keep the container in the refrigerator, where it will remain fresh for up to 2-3 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a skillet over low heat. You might need to add a splash of water or more honey to revive the sauce’s consistency. Stir it well as you heat, ensuring the rice cakes are warmed through.
Variation of Honey Butter Tteokbokki
Feel free to get creative with your Honey Butter Tteokbokki! There are many delightful variations you can try to switch things up.
- Add Protein: To make the dish more hearty, consider adding sliced chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Cook the protein beforehand and combine it with the rice cakes for a satisfying meal.
- Vegetable Boost: For a healthier twist, incorporate vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or bok choy. Sauté them along with the rice cakes for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spices & Nuts: Try adding chili flakes or crushed peanuts on top for extra crunch and flavor. This addition gives your dish an exciting texture!
- Different Sauces: Experiment with different sauces such as teriyaki or sweet chili sauce for new flavor profiles. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your taste.
- Cheesy Delight: If you’re a cheese lover, consider topping your Honey Butter Tteokbokki with shredded mozzarella or cheddar. Allow the cheese to melt into the dish for a creamy texture.
FAQ
What is Honey Butter Tteokbokki?
Honey Butter Tteokbokki is a sweet and spicy Korean dish made with chewy rice cakes coated in a mouthwatering sauce made from honey, butter, gochujang, and soy sauce.
How long does it take to make Honey Butter Tteokbokki?
This delicious dish can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for any meal or snack.
Can I use frozen rice cakes for Honey Butter Tteokbokki?
Yes, you can use frozen rice cakes! Make sure to soak them in warm water to thaw and soften them before cooking.
How do I store leftover Honey Butter Tteokbokki?
Allow the tteokbokki to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Can I adjust the spice level in Honey Butter Tteokbokki?
Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of gochujang to control the heat level. Start with less if you prefer a milder flavor, and add more as desired.

Honey Butter Tteokbokki
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 300 g rice cakes (tteok) Use fresh rice cakes, soak if dried.
- 2 tablespoons honey Adjust based on sweetness preference.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Melt gently.
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste) Adjust for spice level.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
Garnish Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds For garnish.
- 2 pieces green onions Sliced, for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Soak the rice cakes in warm water for about 20-30 minutes.
- In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
Cooking
- Add honey, gochujang, and soy sauce to the melted butter, stirring until well combined.
- Drain the soaked rice cakes and add to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them in the sauce.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring the rice cakes are heated through and slightly caramelized.
Finishing Touch
- Plate the dish while hot, sprinkling sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top.
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