Dive into a culinary adventure with this Spicy Braised Flounder recipe, a vibrant Korean seafood dish that's bursting with flavor and surprisingly easy to make. Imagine tender, flaky flounder swimming in a rich, spicy, and savory sauce, a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and fiery notes. This isn't your average fish dish; it's a sophisticated yet approachable recipe that will impress even the most discerning palates. The aromatic blend of gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
This incredible Korean-inspired dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. The succulent flounder is cooked to perfection, absorbing the luscious braising sauce, creating a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Ready to create this flavorful masterpiece? Let's get started with the detailed, step-by-step instructions that will guide you through the entire process.
Tools Needed
- Medium-sized pot or deep pan
Ingredients
- Flounder
- Radish
- Potato
- Fresh Chilies (mixed green and red): 2 tablespoons
- Green Onion
- Garlic: a few cloves
- Soy Sauce
- Mirin or Rice Wine
- Korean Chili Flakes (Gochugaru)
- Brown Sugar
- Ground Ginger
- Gochujang (Korean Chili Paste)
- Water
- Ground Black Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Sauce
- Dice radish and potato into roughly 1-inch thick pieces. Chop green onions and mince garlic.
- Combine soy sauce, mirin/rice wine, gochugaru, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and gochujang in a bowl. Mix well and add water.
- Add ground black pepper to the sauce.
Step 2. Braise Vegetables
- In a pot, place the radish and potatoes. Pour 2/3 of the sauce over the vegetables and bring to a boil. Then lower the heat to medium-low and cook for about 5 minutes.
Step 3. Cook the Flounder
- Score the flounder deeply to allow the sauce to penetrate.
- Place the flounder on top of the vegetables and pour the remaining sauce over it. Add more water if needed to cover half the fish. Cover and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes on medium-low heat, until the fish turns white.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Spoon the sauce over the fish, sprinkle with chopped chilies and sliced green onions. If dry, add 1/4 cup of water to prevent burning.
Read more: Korean Suyuk (수육): Perfect Thinly Sliced Pork Belly
Tips
- Use good quality, firm flounder. The amount of chili depends on your preference.
- Using vegetables with different textures enhances the dish.
- Adjust cooking time as needed, ensuring vegetables and fish are fully cooked.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250-350
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbs: 30-40g
- Protein: 25-30g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the flounder with another type of fish?
Yes! Cod, halibut, or even firm white fish fillets will work well. Cooking time may need slight adjustment depending on the fish's thickness.
2. How can I make this dish less spicy?
Reduce the amount of gochujang (Korean chili paste) or add a splash of sugar to balance the heat. You can also omit the gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) entirely.
This Spicy Braised Flounder recipe offers a delicious and satisfying culinary experience, showcasing the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine. With its tender fish and flavorful sauce, it's a dish sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy the rewarding taste of your homemade Korean seafood delight!