Prepare for a culinary adventure with Nakji Bokkeum, a fiery Korean stir-fry featuring tender octopus, vibrant vegetables, and a richly savory sauce. This dish isn't for the faint of heart; its bold, spicy flavor profile is guaranteed to awaken your taste buds. The satisfying chewiness of the octopus contrasts beautifully with the crisp vegetables, creating a textural symphony in every bite. This isn't just a meal; it's an experience – a whirlwind of flavor and texture that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Korean cuisine.
Nakji Bokkeum is surprisingly easy to make at home, despite its impressive presentation. With readily available ingredients and simple techniques, you can recreate this authentic Korean street food classic in your own kitchen. Ready to embark on this delicious journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own unforgettable spicy Korean stir-fried octopus.
Tools Needed
- Large bowl
- Saucepan
- Knife
- Large pan
Ingredients
- Soy sauce: 3 teaspoons
- Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
- Fish sauce: 2 teaspoons
- Honey: 2 teaspoons
- Flour: 3 teaspoons
- Octopus: 1 kilo
- Onions: 2
- Garlic cloves: 4
- Red pepper: 1
- Chopped parsley: 3 tablespoons
- Extra virgin oil: 3 teaspoons
- Ground ginger: 2 teaspoons
- Hot pepper flakes: 2 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
- Brown sugar: 2 teaspoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Octopus
- Put the octopus in a large bowl, add flour, and scrub vigorously for about 2 minutes. This tenderizes the octopus and cleans any dirt.
- Rinse the octopus in cold running water until it's no longer slippery, then drain.
- Drop the octopus into a saucepan of unsalted boiling water for 5 minutes, then remove.
- Remove the extra skin and clean the octopus with a knife. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Add 3 tablespoons of the seasoning mix to the octopus and set aside.
Step 2. Make the Sauce and Sauté Vegetables
- Combine all seasoning ingredients (hot pepper flakes, ground ginger, brown sugar, flour, honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, and fish sauce) in a small bowl and mix well.
- Chop the parsley, cut the red pepper into small pieces, finely chop the garlic, and chop the onions.
- Heat a large pan over high heat. Add olive oil, then stir in the onions, red pepper, and garlic. Add some parsley and cook for about 3 minutes until the garlic browns slightly and the onions are translucent.
- Add the remaining seasoning and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 3. Stir-fry the Octopus
- Add the octopus and cook for 10 minutes.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve the octopus with warm cooked rice, noodles, or soybeans.
Read more: Crispy Spicy Honey Garlic Korean Chicken Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of hot pepper flakes according to your spice tolerance.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen octopus for Nakji Bokkeum?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to ensure a good sear and prevent excess moisture from making the dish watery.
2. How spicy is Nakji Bokkeum?
The spiciness is adjustable. Start with less gochujang (Korean chili paste) and add more to your liking. You can also use less gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) for a milder dish.
So there you have it – your very own delicious and authentic Nakji Bokkeum! Enjoy the spicy, savory, and wonderfully textured result of your culinary efforts. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with this fiery Korean masterpiece!