A Sticky Situation: Finding Korean Rice Cakes in NYC
Okay, so you're craving those chewy, delightful Korean rice cakes, often referred to as tteok. You're in the Big Apple, a city known for its culinary diversity, but somehow, finding the perfect tteok can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack (or maybe a rice cake in a kimchi pot). Fear not, fellow tteok enthusiast! I'm here to guide you through this sticky situation.
H Mart: Your One-Stop (Almost) Shop
Let's start with the obvious: H Mart. This Korean supermarket chain is a staple in many NYC neighborhoods and it's a decent place to start your tteok hunt. They usually have a good selection of frozen and pre-packaged rice cakes. However, don’t expect to find freshly made tteok here. It’s more like the frozen pizza of the Korean food world - convenient but not exactly gourmet.
Beyond the Frozen Section
If you're looking for something fresher, you'll need to venture beyond the familiar territory of H Mart. Flushing, Queens, is your next stop. This vibrant neighborhood is home to a thriving Korean community, and consequently, a plethora of Korean markets. Places like Hansol and Woo Ri Jip are known for their fresh tteok selection. Be prepared to brave the crowds and unleash your inner bargain hunter.
The World of Online Shopping
For those who prefer to avoid crowds, online shopping is a viable option. Websites like KoreanMart and Amazon offer a variety of rice cakes. However, be mindful of shipping costs and potential delays. Plus, there's something undeniably satisfying about physically selecting your tteok.
Tteok-Bokki and Beyond
Once you've secured your tteok, the fun really begins. You can create countless dishes, from the classic tteok-bokki to adventurous tteok stir-fries. Remember, tteok is incredibly versatile - it's like the tofu of the Korean pantry.
How to...
- How to cook frozen rice cakes? Simply boil them until they float to the surface.
- How to store fresh rice cakes? Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week.
- How to prevent rice cakes from sticking? Lightly grease your cooking surface before using.
- How to make tteok-bokki spicier? Add more gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) to taste.
- How to use leftover rice cakes? Get creative! Try them in soups, stir-fries, or even as a sweet dessert.
So, there you have it, a guide to navigating the world of Korean rice cakes in NYC. Happy tteok hunting!