Here’s some big heat for you.
If you’ve been a fan of anything Korean, then explaining what Tteokbokki is probably futile – maybe not? It’s not a surprise if this dish has become quite famous since the surge of K-pop and K-dramas started everywhere. We sure were also wondering at first what that red and chewy dish that every single one of our favorite Korean personalities and characters are having.
Related: Where to Get Your Hands on Some Korean Corndogs ; Your Guide to Korean Food Delivery Available Now
Wonder no more as we’ve created this quick and easy guide on everything Tteokbokki and more. Be sure to read through the end as we’ve also listed down places in the metro where you can find them.
What is Tteokbokki?
To put it simply, Tteokbokki is a popular street food dish with stir-fried rice cakes as its main ingredient. It’s red spicy sauce is mainly due to the combination of Gochujang (Korean red chili pepper paste) and Gochugaru (Korean red chili pepper flakes).
Now that’s out of the way, it’s time for you guys to know that there are various versions and fusions made with this dish which can be split into two things: by the ingredients added and by the sauce.
By the ingredients added
Traditionally, fried Mandu (dumplings) and hard-boiled eggs are added to Tteokbokki. However, just like many Korean dishes, several ingredients were added throughout the years. Thus, creating several varieties. Here are the most common ones:
- Haemul-Tteokbokki or Seafood Tteokbokki
- Galbi-Tteokbokki or Short Rib Tteokbokki
- Ra-bokki or Instant Noodle/Ramen Noodle Tteokbokki
- Jol-bokki or Chewy Noodle/Wheat Noodle Tteokbokki
By the sauce
Though this dish has become popular due to its distinct red sauce, there are several variations and fusions were made to be more accessible for different kinds of palettes. Here are some you need to know:
- Gochujang Tteokbokki – Most likely the standard version of Tteokbokki that we’re all familiar with. However, this can be enjoyed either with soup (which we’re probably more familiar with) or dry and skewered (stir-fried in oil).
- Ganjang Tteokbokki – Known as the Tteokbokki for Royals, this version uses soy sauce as its main base for its sauce. This version has been around since even before the introduction of chili peppers in Korea. Its taste is similar to Japchae.
- Curry Tteokbokki – This version or fusion uses Korean yellow curry powder which includes turmeric, making it a healthier variation.
- Cream sauce Tteokbokki – Inspired by Carbonara, this version has cream sauce and bacon instead of Gochujang and fish cakes.
- Rose Tteokbokki – This version is based on the rose pasta, and adds cream sauce to your regular Tteokbokki one.
- Jajang-Tteokbokki – This variation uses Jajang or sweet bean paste as the base for its sauce.
- Cheese Tteokbokki – This version of Tteokbokki has become quite popular nowadays especially for foreigners. As its name implies, cheese is added on top of your regular Tteokbokki.
Where you can find Tteokbokki in the Metro
Has all that information about Tteokbokki made you hungry? Don’t worry. We’ve listed down places that offer delivery to satisfy your cravings.
Maria’s Tteokbokki
Maria’s Korean snack menu is perfect if you’re looking to satisfy your craving. They have several options you can choose from including their Tteokbokki, which you can choose between a cheesy version or a sweet and spicy one. They even sell party trays if you’re planning to order big.
To order for delivery, you can message them on their Facebook page or Instagram account.
View their menu
View their Facebook page
View their Instagram account
Sta. Mesa, Manila
Always Eating
From their crowd favorite Cheesy Tteokbokki with Odeng (Fishcake) to the classic one, Always Eating has them for you. What’s great is that you can request the level of spiciness when you order.
To order for delivery, you can message them on their Facebook page or Instagram account.
View their menu
View their Facebook page
View their Instagram account
Quezon City, Metro Manila
Sesame and You
South peeps craving for some spicy rice cakes, Sesame and You’s home-cooked Korean food cravings and more is just within the area.
To order for delivery, you can message them on their Facebook page or Instagram account.
View menu
View their Facebook page
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BF Resort Village, Las Piñas
Snow Panda
If spice isn’t a problem, then Snow Panda’s Tteokbokki will certainly bring on that heat. You can pair it with their milkteas, smoothies, and bingsu to help with that spiciness after.
To order for delivery, you can contact them at (02) 7900-7234 or (0945) 536-7572.
View their menu
View their Facebook page
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The Bellagio Square, Jorge Bocobo St., Malate, Manila
(02) 7900-7234 | (0945) 536-7572
School Tteokbokki
Looking to try those other Tteokbokki variations we mentioned? Then School of Tteokbokki is the place you can get them. From the Carbonara-inspired one to Jajang Tteokbokki, this place has it all and more. If you get the chance to visit their physical shop, they also have a Korean mart for all your K-needs.
To order for delivery, they are available via FoodPanda.
View their menu
View their Facebook page
View their Instagram account
69 Mayor Gil Fernando Avenue, Marikina City
(0966) 307-9424
K-Pops Korean Street Food
K-pops is making Korean street food more accessible for Filipinos with stores across the metro and even outside. Get to enjoy Tteokbokki and more while you’re watching your favorite K-drama series.
To order for delivery, they are available via FoodPanda or LalaFood.
View their Facebook page
View their Instagram account
(0961) 878-0214 | (0905) 408-7673
Kraver’s Canteen
At Kraver’s Canteen, you can get dishes from a variety of cuisines including Korean cuisine. Partner their spicy, mouthwatering tteokbokki with their odeng, mandu, kimbaps, and rice bowls.
View their delivery website (powered by Booky)
View their Facebook page
View their Instagram account
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Cover image from Sesame and You’s Facebook page.