Are you craving a flavorful and satisfying Korean dish that's both quick to prepare and incredibly delicious? Look no further than this recipe for irresistible stir-fried fish cakes! This classic Korean street food boasts a delightful combination of chewy fish cake, vibrant vegetables, and a savory, slightly spicy sauce that will awaken your taste buds. Whether you're a seasoned Korean food enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this recipe is surprisingly easy to master, yielding a dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend snack. The vibrant colors and aromatic spices will transform your meal into a culinary adventure.
This recipe offers a simplified approach to this beloved dish, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the ingredients to achieving that perfect balance of textures and flavors. Ready to embark on this culinary journey and create a truly authentic taste of Korea in your own kitchen? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Wok or frying pan
Ingredients
- Square fish cakes
- Onion: 1/2
- Carrots: 40g
- Green onion: 1
- Soy sauce: 2 spoons
- Sugar: 1/2 spoon
- Corn syrup: 2 spoons
- Cooking wine: 2 spoons
- Beef dashi: 1 small spoon
- Pepper: 1 small spoon
- Red pepper powder: 1/2 spoon (optional)
- Red pepper oil: 2 spoons
- Cooking oil: 2 spoons (alternative)
- Minced garlic: 1 spoonful
- Sesame seeds: 1 spoonful
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Cut them in half, then slice thinly. Slice them in a way that you can eat several at once.
- Thinly slice half an onion. Thinly slice 40g of carrots. Crush and prepare a handful of green onion (mix white and green parts). Thinly slice half of a green onion lengthwise.
- Mix 2 spoons of soy sauce, 1/2 spoon of sugar, 2 spoons of corn syrup, 2 spoons of cooking wine, 1 small spoon of beef dashi, and 1 small spoon of pepper. Add 1/2 spoon of red pepper powder if desired.
Step 2. Stir-fry Aromatics and Vegetables
- Pour 2 spoons of red pepper oil (or cooking oil) into the wok. Maintain medium heat throughout the cooking process.
- Add a spoonful of minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chopped green onions and thinly sliced onions, stir-fry until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- When the onions are slightly translucent, pour in the seasoning sauce and bring to a boil.
Step 3. Cook the Fish Cakes
- Add the sliced fish cakes and carrots. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until well mixed with the sauce.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Turn off the heat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and stir well.
Read more: Crispy Spicy Honey Garlic Korean Chicken Recipe
Tips
- The golden ratio of seasoning sauce and chili oil makes the dish even more delicious.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbs: 40-50g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of fish cakes?
Yes! While this recipe uses a specific type, feel free to experiment with other fish cakes. The cooking time might need slight adjustments depending on the thickness and type.
2. What can I substitute for Gochujang if I don't have any?
While Gochujang provides the signature flavor, you can substitute with a combination of Korean chili paste (Gochugaru) and a touch of soy sauce and brown sugar for a similar, though slightly less complex, flavor profile.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the vegetables and sauce ahead. Stir-fry the fish cakes and vegetables just before serving to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
This simple yet flavorful stir-fried fish cake recipe is a fantastic introduction to Korean cuisine, perfect for a weeknight meal or a fun weekend project. The vibrant flavors and satisfying texture will leave you wanting more, and the ease of preparation makes it a perfect dish for busy cooks. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!