Spicy Korean Rice Cakes (Tteokbokki)

Step 1

Soak tteok in cold water to cover while preparing the other ingredients, about 10 minutes. Drain on paper towels.

Step 2

Combine beef with soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil and garlic.

Step 3

Heat a wok or skillet over high heat until very hot. Add beef mixture and stir-fry just until lightly browned, 1 minute. Add onion, scallions, and cabbage, if using, and stir-fry until crisp-tender, 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 4

Add gochujang and mix. Add about 1/3 cup water, remaining teaspoon sesame oil, sugar and tteok. Mix and let simmer until sauce is thick and tteok is soft, adding water a little at a time as needed. Adjust seasonings with sugar and gochujang.

Step 5

Mix in scallions and serve hot, sprinkled with sesame seeds.