Of course! “Super Easy Rice Cake” can mean a few different things, from a savory Korean side dish (Tteok) to a simple sweet snack. Given the request for “super easy,” I’ll focus on the simplest, most accessible interpretations you can make at home with minimal ingredients.
Here are two fantastic and incredibly easy recipes:
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1. Super Easy Savory Pan-Fried Rice Cakes (A simplified Tteokbokki-style snack)
This is a chewy, pan-fried version of the famous Korean street food, without the need for the traditional long, tubular rice cakes. It uses a simple dough for ultimate ease.
Concept: Chewy, pan-fried rice cakes with a simple savory or spicy glaze.
Ingredients:
· 2 cups Mochiko Sweet Rice Flour (this is the key—it creates the perfect chewy texture)
· 3/4 cup + 2 tbsp very hot water
· 1 tbsp neutral oil (like vegetable or canola)
· For the Glaze/Sauce:
· Soy-Garlic Option: 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp honey (or brown sugar), 1 clove garlic (minced), 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp water.
· Spicy Gochujang Option: 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste), 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp honey (or sugar), 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp water.
Instructions:
1. Make the Dough: In a bowl, combine the Mochiko flour and hot water. Stir with a fork until it comes together into a shaggy dough. Let it cool for a minute, then knead with your hands for 2-3 minutes until it becomes a smooth, soft, and pliable dough. If it’s sticky, add a tiny bit more flour.
2. Shape the Cakes: Pinch off small pieces of dough (about 1 tbsp size) and roll them into balls. Then, gently press them between your palms to form small, flat discs (about 1/2-inch thick).
3. Cook the Cakes: Heat the oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the rice cakes in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are puffed up and have a golden-brown crust.
4. Glaze Them: In a small bowl, whisk together your chosen sauce ingredients. If using the spicy option, warming it for 10 seconds in the microwave can help combine it. Pour the sauce over the hot rice cakes in the pan and toss gently to coat for about 30 seconds.
5. Serve Immediately: Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onion. Enjoy them hot and chewy!
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2. Super Easy Sweet Microwave Rice Cakes
This is the absolute easiest method—no baking, no frying, just a microwave and a few minutes. It’s a single-serving, customizable treat.
Concept: A soft, slightly chewy, and customizable sweet cake perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
· 3 tbsp Mochiko Sweet Rice Flour
· 2 tbsp milk (any kind) or water
· 1 tbsp sugar (white, brown, or maple syrup)
· A tiny pinch of salt
· Mix-in Ideas: A few chocolate chips, a sprinkle of cinnamon, a drop of vanilla extract, or a teaspoon of peanut butter.
Instructions:
1. Combine: In a small, microwave-safe bowl (or a large mug), mix the Mochiko flour, milk, sugar, and salt until it forms a smooth batter with no lumps. Stir in your desired mix-ins.
2. Microwave: Cook on high for 1 minute. The top should look dry and firm.
3. Check and Cook More: If it still looks wet or sticky, microwave in additional 15-second bursts until it’s firm to the touch. Don’t overcook, or it will become tough.
4. Cool and Enjoy: Let it cool for a minute or two (it will be VERY hot). It will firm up as it cools. Run a knife around the edge, turn it out onto a plate, and enjoy! It’s delicious plain or drizzled with a little honey.
Why These Recipes Work & Key Tips:
· The Secret Ingredient is Mochiko: Using Sweet Rice Flour (glutinous rice flour) is non-negotiable for the classic chewy texture. Regular flour or cooked rice will not work the same way.
· Texture is Key: For the savory version, getting a good sear in the pan creates a fantastic crispy exterior contrasting with the soft, chewy inside.
· Customize Your Flavor: The sauce and mix-in options are endless. Try different spices, nuts, or seeds.
· Serve Immediately: Rice cakes are best enjoyed fresh and warm, as they can harden as they cool. If they do, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave will soften them right up.
These recipes are perfect for when you need a quick, satisfying, and fun kitchen project with minimal fuss