Ingredients

1/2 cup thin sliced korean rice cake ( ddeok gook ddeok )
1/4 cup dried anchovy ( myeol chi - I think the Japanese word is naboshi )
6 cups water
2 green onions , chopped
4 ounces beef , cut into thin strips
1 egg , beaten
2 sheets nori ( seasoned kim , dried laver seaweed )
1/4 teaspoon soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
1/8 teaspoon sugar
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/8 teaspoon minced garlic
Ddeok Gook, also known as Korean New Year Rice Cake Soup, is a traditional Korean soup dish served during the Korean New Year. The soup is a representation of good luck, fortune, and family tradition. The sliced rice cakes symbolize longevity, while the soft-boiled eggs represent new beginnings. The broth is a simple yet flavorful combination of beef and dried anchovies. The soup is completed with a sprinkle of sliced green onions and nori sheets. It is typically served as a main dish during the Korean New Year's Day celebrations. The recipe has since evolved, with variations that include dumplings, beef brisket, or fish cake slices.

Instructions

1.Rinse the dried anchovies in cold water to remove any impurities
2.In a stockpot, add the anchovies and 6 cups of water and bring to a boil
3.Lower the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes
4.Remove the anchovies from the pot and add the sliced rice cakes. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until the rice cakes are soft
5.Add the chopped beef and sliced green onions to the pot. Simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes
6.Add the beaten egg to the pot and stir
7.Season with soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, pepper, and minced garlic
8.Serve hot and garnish with sliced nori sheets

PROS

Ddeok Gook has a comforting and hearty taste, perfect for cold winter days
It is a popular dish served during Korean New Year
The ingredients are easily accessible and affordable

CONS

The dish may be too simple for some people’s taste preference
The traditional recipe calls for beef and dried anchovies, which may not be suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The soup is low in fat and high in protein, making it a nutritious meal option
The thinly sliced rice cakes provide a gluten-free alternative to traditional wheat-based noodles
The garlic in the recipe is known to boost the immune system and provide antibacterial properties

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