Tteokgalbi are Korean beef patties that offer a delightful twist on traditional barbecue.

Despite the name, which translates to “rice cake ribs,” tteokgalbi doesn’t actually contain rice cakes. The name is believed to come from the shape or texture of the patties that resemble Korean rice cakes.

The beef is finely minced and pounded, much like the preparation of sticky rice cakes such as injeolmi, giving it a distinctive soft yet chewy texture. Some believe this unique preparation method is the origin of the name.

The patties are then coated with a special sauce and grilled to perfection, creating a sweet and savory glaze on the outside. Unlike other short rib dishes, tteokgalbi’s minced texture makes it juicy, tender and easy to digest, making it a popular choice for all ages.

Depending on the type of beef used (such as the highly prized Korean beef, hanwoo, which can be quite expensive), tteokgalbi can become a luxurious dish at fine dining establishments. However, frozen packages of precooked tteokgalbi are a common refrigerator staple for families with young children.

(short rib patties, marinated beef rib patties, savory minced beef rib grill)