Korean Spicy Sea Fish Stew (Agui Jjim) Recipe

Agui Jjim, or spicy braised codfish stew, is a fiery and flavorful Korean dish that's sure to tantalize your taste buds. This comforting yet vibrant stew boasts tender chunks of cod simmered in a rich, spicy broth infused with gochujang (Korean chili paste), gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), and a medley of aromatic vegetables. The depth of flavor comes from a careful balance of sweet, savory, spicy, and umami notes, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. It's the perfect dish for a chilly evening or a special occasion, offering a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures.

Beyond its deliciousness, Agui Jjim is surprisingly easy to make, even for home cooks unfamiliar with Korean cuisine. The ingredients are readily available, and the cooking process, though involving several steps, is straightforward and manageable. Ready to dive in and create your own incredible Agui Jjim? Let's move on to the detailed, step-by-step recipe below!

Tools Needed

• pot
• knife
• cutting board
• wooden spoon

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients and Broth

• Select and clean the fish. Wash and clean the fish thoroughly. Do not wash it before cutting if it is a soft fish.
• Mix soybean paste with a little water.
• Boil the Tenjang water. Add the chopped fish one by one into the boiling Tenjang water. Stir and cook for 5-8 minutes.

Step 2. Cook the Fish and Add Spices

• Chop chilies, garlic, and ginger. Mix with chili paste, cooking oil, soy sauce, honey, and chili powder.
• Add the spice paste to the fish stew. Stir well and cook until the fish is soft and the smell is gone.

Step 3. Add Vegetables and Simmer

• Add bean sprouts, Minari, and mushrooms. Stir gently and cook until vegetables are tender.

Step 4. Garnish and Serve

• Garnish with green onions and butter.
• Serve hot, garnished with Korean chili powder for color.

Read more: Instant Pot Chinese Beef Brisket Stew (蘿蔔燜牛腩) - Easy Recipe

Tips

• Don't throw away any parts of the fish; Koreans utilize everything.
• Cut the fish into large pieces to retain flavor.
• Don't overcook the fish; it should be soft but not mushy.
• Adjust the amount of chili powder to your spice preference.
• Adding too much water can cause rotting, so be careful with the water amount.

Nutrition

• N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of fish instead of cod?

Yes! Other firm, white fish like halibut, pollock, or even snapper will work well. Just make sure it's cut into similar-sized pieces to the cod.

2. What can I do if my stew is too spicy?

Add a splash of milk or a spoonful of sugar to help balance the heat. You can also add more vegetables to dilute the spiciness.

Enjoy your delicious, homemade Agui Jjim! This fiery and flavorful stew is perfect for sharing with friends and family, or enjoying a comforting meal on your own. We hope this recipe inspires you to explore the wonderful world of Korean cuisine.