Tteok, or Korean rice cakes, hold a special place in Korean cuisine and culture. These chewy and delicious treats are enjoyed on various occasions, from celebrations and holidays to everyday snacking. Making homemade tteok allows you to connect with Korean traditions and savor the authentic flavors of this beloved dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups sweet rice flour (mochiko)
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Soak the Rice:

Start by soaking the sweet rice in water for at least 6 hours or overnight. This will soften the rice and make it easier to grind into a smooth rice flour.

2. Grind the Rice:

Once the rice has soaked, drain the water and grind the rice in a food processor or blender until it becomes a fine rice flour consistency.

3. Cook the Rice Cake Dough:

In a pot, combine the rice flour, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes a sticky dough.

4. Shape the Rice Cakes:

Remove the dough from the pot and let it cool slightly. Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into flat discs or cylindrical shapes, depending on the type of tteok you want to make.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Your homemade tteok is now ready to be enjoyed! You can serve them plain or with a variety of toppings such as sweet red bean paste, sesame seeds, or nuts. Enjoy the chewy texture and sweet flavor of these traditional Korean rice cakes.

Making homemade tteok is a labor of love that allows you to appreciate the cultural significance of this beloved Korean dish. Whether you enjoy them on special occasions or simply as a delicious snack, homemade tteok is sure to delight your taste buds and transport you to the vibrant culinary world of Korean cuisine.