For Grace Kim, Lunar New Year (known as Seollal in Korean culture) is one of the most meaningful moments of the year.
“It’s a family reunion,” she shares. “Which involves a lot of our traditional food, especially tteokguk, a rice cake soup which symbolises new beginnings, gaining age and good fortune.”
Rooted in togetherness, Seollal is a time to honour elders, reconnect with family and reflect on the year ahead. Even when loved ones are far away, the rituals remain - carried through food, memory and intention.
As much as it’s about celebrating, it’s also about grounding yourself. Grace says “I call my family and pay respect for the elders and remind myself of my roots, which is the whole point of Seollal; family and togetherness.”
Ingredients
- Rice Cakes: 450g sliced oval Rice Cakes (tteokguk-tteok)
- Broth: 8 cups of Beef Brisket Stock, Anchovy Broth or Bone Broth
- Protein: 225g Beef Brisket or Flank Steak (thinly sliced or shredded)
- Seasonings: 1-2 tbsp Korean soup Soy Sauce (guk-ganjang), 1 tbsp minced Garlic, Salt and Black Pepper to taste
- Garnish: 2 Eggs (for Jidan f\or drizzling), 2 sliced Spring Onions and 1 sheet of roasted Seaweed (gim).
Method
1. Prep the Rice Cakes: Soak the Rice Cakes in cold water for 15-30 minutes to soften them and remove excess starch. Drain before using.
2. Prepare the Broth:
1. Beef Method: Saute sliced Beef with Garlic and Sesame Oil in a pot until browned. Add water or stock and simmer for 20-30 minutes until the meat is tender.
2. Anchovy Method: Boil dried Anchovies and kelp for 15 minutes, then discard the solids.
3. Make the egg garnish (Jidan): Separate egg yolks and whites. Fry them separately on low heat into thin sheets, then slice them into thin strips. Alternatively, you can beat the eggs and drizzle them directly into the boiling soup for a 'ribbon' effect.
4. Cook the Soup: Bring the broth to a boil. Add the soaked Rice Cakes and simmer for 3-8 minutes until they float to the top and become soft.
5. Season: Add the Soup Soy Sauce, minced Garlic and Salt to taste. Stir in the white parts of the Spring Onions.
6. Serve: Ladle the Soup into bowls. Top with sliced Egg strips (Jidan), shredded Beef, remaining Green Onion and crushed roasted Seaweed.
Celebrate Lunar New Year with Freedom Of The Horse
${ product.type }
Thanks, we'll let you know
${ product.type }
Thanks, we'll let you know




