Crispy Gochujang Dok Boki Sticks

It was on a vacation to Los Angeles when we stumbled into a quaint and unassuming Korean/vegan fusion restaurant. True to form, we were treated to a wide array of sides, sauces and extras with which we could adorn our plates. One of the most exciting things we had ordered were some crispy and spicy rice cake sticks. We had never had anything like it; with the crunchy exterior and the chewy, mochi-like center, these snacks were a massive favorite for us.

Ultimately, all things must come to an end and we had to return home, but one thing stayed with us, the memories of that meal.

So, with the summer over and with winter weather right around the corner, it has us pining for those sunny, California days and those delicious rice sticks.
Since we couldn't afford to fly ourselves out west, we did the next best thing and made our own!

Off we go again to our local Asian Market!!

Crispy Dok Boki Rice Sticks

(approx. 20 mins)

1 package of stick rice cake
4 Tbsp of gochujang sauce
2 Tbsp of toppoki sauce
2-4 Tbsp of grapeseed oil
1/4 cup of toasted sesame seeds

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Toss in your rice sticks and boil for 3-4 minutes.

Remove the rice sticks and transfer them to a bath of cold water to stop them from cooking further.

Transfer the cooled rice sticks to a good collander to drain any excess moisture. Now, these sticks are really... well... sticky, so they may want to stick to your collander. Luckilly, these don't need long to dry, a minute or two is fine.

Next, grab a skewer and pop your sticks on them kabob-style.

Bring a pan up to medium-high and add about 2-4 tbsp of grapeseed oil before adding your rice sticks for 3-5 minutes per side or until the get crunchy and begin to bubble. Carefully remove and put on a paper towel to help wick away any excess oil.

Mix together the sauces and brush it overtop, coating evenly.
To finish, stack them on a plate and sprinkle with the toasted sesame seeds.

One bite and we were instantly transported right back to the coast, the spicy flavor taking us right back to that first time. Serve it with some freshly brewed Thai Tea and you've got yourself a fun and quick way to take yourself on a culinary adventure!