Garaetteok: A Traditional Korean Rice Cake with a Chewy Texture

What is Garaetteok? A Unique First Experience 

What do foreigners say when they first encounter garaetteok? Many ask, "Is this a type of bread made from rice?" or "Why is it so chewy?" Garaetteok is a traditional Korean rice cake, made by steaming finely ground rice flour and then shaping it into long cylinders. It is commonly grilled, eaten as a snack, or used in various dishes.

In Korea, garaetteok is not only the main ingredient in tteokguk (rice cake soup) eaten on Lunar New Year's Day but also enjoyed as a grilled snack dipped in honey or rice syrup. Interestingly, November 11 is not just Pepero Day but also Garaetteok Day! On this day, people eat garaetteok to promote rice consumption and celebrate Korea’s traditional rice cakes. 

Personally, I love grilling garaetteok slightly and dipping it in honey. Since garaetteok is a rice-based cake, it has a naturally nutty and mild flavor. The crispy exterior and chewy interior create a simple yet rich taste experience. 



🍽 What Does Garaetteok Taste Like?

In one word, garaetteok is chewy and mildly savory. It has no added seasoning, so its taste can vary depending on how it is prepared!

  • Grilled Garaetteok: Crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, with a rich, nutty flavor

  • Garaetteok for Tteokguk (Rice Cake Soup): Softens in the broth while maintaining a pleasantly chewy texture

  • With Honey or Rice Syrup: The natural sweetness of honey blends perfectly with the mild taste of the rice cake

Unlike Western bread, garaetteok is made from rice, so it is gluten-free and easy to digest. This makes it a great option for anyone to enjoy. 

🎯 Key Ingredients in Garaetteok

The ingredients for garaetteok are very simple! Yet, this simplicity results in an irresistibly chewy texture.

✅ Non-glutinous Rice (Mepssal): The main ingredient that determines its chewiness ✅ Water: Essential for kneading and steaming the rice flour ✅ A Pinch of Salt (Optional): Adds a subtle depth to the flavor

Though the ingredients are basic, making garaetteok requires skill and dedication, making it a true traditional dish.

🇰🇷 Where Can You Try Garaetteok in Korea?

If you visit Korea, make sure to experience garaetteok! Here’s where you can find it easily:

🛍 Traditional Markets & Rice Cake Shops: Freshly made garaetteok can be found in markets like Namdaemun Market and Gwangjang Market.

🏪 Supermarkets & Convenience Stores: Packaged garaetteok is widely available in large supermarkets and even some convenience stores.

🍽 Korean Restaurants & Traditional Tea Houses: Some traditional tea houses serve grilled garaetteok with honey as a snack.

🏡 Enjoy It at Home!: Buy garaetteok from a market, grill it in a pan, and dip it in honey or rice syrup. It’s a simple yet delicious traditional snack! 

✨ Conclusion: Don’t Miss Out on Garaetteok in Korea!

Garaetteok is not just a rice cake—it is a part of Korean culture and daily life. Whether used in tteokguk or enjoyed as a snack, its charm is undeniable. 

If you ever visit Korea, be sure to try garaetteok! It’s delicious grilled, in soup, or any way you like. 

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