Ddeok Gook (Korean New Year Rice Cake Soup)

Ddeok Gook (Korean New Year Rice Cake Soup) Recipe - Authentic Korean Flavor

Region / culture: Korea | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ddeok Gook, also known as Korean New Year Rice Cake Soup, is a traditional Korean dish that is commonly enjoyed during the Lunar New Year celebration. This hearty and comforting soup is made with chewy rice cakes, savory broth, and various toppings, making it a popular choice for special occasions and everyday meals alike.

History

Ddeok Gook has been a staple in Korean cuisine for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient times. It is believed that the tradition of eating rice cake soup on New Year's Day began as a way to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year. The round shape of the rice cakes symbolizes coins, while the clear broth represents a fresh start.

Ingredients

0.5 cup thin sliced Korean rice cakes (ddeok gook ddeok)
0.25 cup dried anchovies (myeol chi - I think the Japanese word is naboshi)
6 cup water
2 green onions, chopped
4 oz (113 g) beef, cut into thin strips
1 egg, beaten
2 sheets nori (seasoned kim, dried laver seaweed)
0.25 tsp soy sauce
0.25 tsp sesame oil
0.13 tsp sugar
0.13 tsp pepper
0.13 tsp minced garlic

How to prepare

Soak the rice cake in cold water for 30 minutes.
Marinate the beef in soy sauce, sesame oil, pepper, sugar, and minced garlic.
Sauté the beef in a skillet, then set it aside.
Put 6 cups of water and the dried anchovies in a pot.
Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer for 5 minutes.
Strain out the anchovies and return the broth to the pot.
Add the rice cakes to the broth.
Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium.
Cook for 10–15 minutes, until the rice cakes are tender.
Add the green onions.
Pour the beaten egg into the pot gradually.
Let it set for a bit, then stir gently - stirring immediately after adding the egg will make the broth milky.
Divide the mixture into bowls.
Garnish each bowl with some beef and crumbled kimchi.

Variations

Vegetarian: Substitute the beef with tofu or mushrooms for a meat-free version of Ddeok Gook.
Spicy: Add a spoonful of gochujang (Korean red chili paste) for a spicy kick.
Seafood: Add shrimp or clams to the soup for a seafood twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the rice cakes in cold water helps to soften them and remove any excess starch.

- Marinating the beef adds flavor and tenderness to the meat.

- Gradually pouring the beaten egg into the soup and letting it set before stirring ensures a silky texture.

- Garnishing the soup with green onions and kimchi adds a pop of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Ddeok Gook can be served as a main dish or as part of a larger Korean meal. It pairs well with side dishes such as kimchi, pickled vegetables, and steamed rice. Enjoy it with a cup of hot tea or a refreshing glass of iced barley tea.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing: Sauté the beef in a skillet to enhance its flavor and texture.

- Boiling: Boil the rice cakes and broth to cook them through and infuse the flavors.

- Simmering: Simmer the soup on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Rice cakes: Use Japanese mochi or Chinese rice cakes as a substitute.

- Dried anchovies: Use dried shrimp or kelp for a different flavor profile.

- Beef: Substitute with chicken, pork, or tofu for a different protein option.

Make Ahead Tips

Ddeok Gook can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. Add fresh toppings and garnishes just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Ddeok Gook in individual bowls, garnished with green onions, beef, and kimchi. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or crushed seaweed for added texture and flavor. Serve with a side of steamed rice and pickled vegetables for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Ddeok Gook pairs well with a variety of Korean side dishes, such as kimchi, pickled radishes, and seasoned vegetables. Enjoy it with a cup of hot tea or a glass of Korean rice wine for a traditional Korean dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Ddeok Gook in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add additional broth or water if needed to adjust the consistency.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ddeok Gook contains approximately 200 calories, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option. It's important to balance calorie intake with physical activity to maintain a healthy weight.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ddeok Gook contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the rice cakes and vegetables. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for overall health and well-being.

Fats

Ddeok Gook is a low-fat dish, with each serving containing only a small amount of fat from the beef and sesame oil. Fats are important for absorbing vitamins and providing energy, but it's important to consume them in moderation.

Proteins

Each serving of Ddeok Gook provides approximately 10 grams of protein, mainly from the beef and egg. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, making it an important nutrient for overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

Ddeok Gook is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium. These nutrients are important for supporting immune function, promoting healthy bones, and maintaining overall health.

Alergens

Ddeok Gook contains anchovies and beef, which may be allergens for some individuals. It's important to check for any food allergies or sensitivities before consuming this dish.

Summary

Ddeok Gook is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. It's a delicious and comforting dish that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Ddeok Gook is a delicious and comforting Korean rice cake soup that is perfect for celebrating the Lunar New Year or enjoying any time of year. With its chewy rice cakes, savory broth, and flavorful toppings, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy it with family and friends for a warm and satisfying meal that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Ddeok Gook, a traditional Korean New Year rice cake soup. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the bustling city of Seoul. My mother, a talented cook herself, had received the recipe from a dear friend who had learned it from her own grandmother. As she carefully read through the ingredients and instructions, I could see the excitement in her eyes. She explained to me that this soup was a special dish that was traditionally eaten during the Korean New Year celebration, known as Seollal.

I watched in awe as my mother gathered the ingredients and began to prepare the soup. The rich aroma of the beef broth simmering on the stove filled our small kitchen, and I could hardly contain my excitement as I waited for the finished dish. Finally, after hours of preparation, the Ddeok Gook was ready to be served.

As I took my first spoonful of the soup, I was overwhelmed by the comforting flavors and textures. The chewy rice cakes, tender beef, and savory broth all melded together perfectly, creating a dish that was both hearty and satisfying. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made this Ddeok Gook for countless family gatherings and special occasions. Each time, it brings back memories of that first taste and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. I have passed the recipe down to my own children, who now make it for their families as well.

One of my favorite memories of making Ddeok Gook was when I taught my granddaughter, Sarah, how to make it for the first time. She had always shown an interest in cooking, and I knew that this recipe would be the perfect introduction to Korean cuisine for her. As we stood side by side in the kitchen, I guided her through each step, explaining the importance of patience and attention to detail.

As the soup simmered on the stove, I could see the same excitement and curiosity in Sarah's eyes that I had felt so many years ago. When we finally sat down to enjoy the finished dish, I knew that I had passed on more than just a recipe – I had shared a piece of my heritage and culture with her.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the traditions and memories that have shaped me as a cook and a person. The Ddeok Gook recipe has become more than just a dish to me – it is a connection to my past, a way to honor my roots, and a reminder of the importance of sharing food and love with those around me.

So, as I continue to cook and share this recipe with others, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to preserve the rich tapestry of culture and tradition that is so important to me. And I hope that one day, my granddaughter will pass on this recipe to her own children, keeping our family's culinary heritage alive for generations to come.