Godeungeo Jorim, also known as braised mackerel, is a classic Korean dish that combines the rich flavors of mackerel with a savory and spicy sauce. This dish is known for its bold taste and aromatic presence, making it a favorite in Korean cuisine. Typically served with steamed rice and side dishes, Godeungeo Jorim is a hearty meal that brings warmth and comfort to the dining table.
Ingredients
To prepare Godeungeo Jorim, you will need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 2 whole mackerel, cleaned and cut into chunks
- 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 medium-sized radish, peeled and sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 red chili pepper, sliced
- 1 green chili pepper, sliced
For the Sauce
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 cup water
Preparation
Preparing the Ingredients
- Clean and Cut the Mackerel: Remove the head and guts from the mackerel, then cut into large chunks. Rinse under cold water and set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Peel and slice the potatoes and radish. Slice the onion and chop the green onions. Slice the red and green chili peppers.
Making the Sauce
- Combine the Sauce Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, gochujang, gochugaru, sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Add 1 cup of water and stir until well combined.
Cooking the Godeungeo Jorim
- Layer the Vegetables: In a large pot, layer the sliced radish, potatoes, and onions on the bottom.
- Add the Mackerel: Place the mackerel chunks on top of the vegetables.
- Pour the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the mackerel and vegetables.
- Cook: Cover the pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes and radish are tender and the mackerel is fully cooked.
- Add the Final Touches: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the chopped green onions and sliced chili peppers. Let it simmer for a few more minutes before turning off the heat.
Tips
- Fresh Mackerel: Ensure the mackerel is fresh to get the best flavor and texture. Frozen mackerel can be used, but fresh is always preferable.
- Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of gochujang and gochugaru. You can also remove the seeds from the chili peppers to decrease the heat.
- Balancing Flavors: Taste the sauce before pouring it over the mackerel. Adjust the sweetness or saltiness by adding more sugar or soy sauce as needed.
Variations
- With Tofu: Add tofu chunks along with the mackerel for a protein-rich variation. Tofu will absorb the flavors of the sauce and provide a different texture.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the mackerel with firm tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version. The braising technique and sauce will still deliver a delicious and hearty dish.
- Additional Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to add more color and nutrition to the dish.
Calorie Information
- Mackerel: Approximately 205 calories per 100 grams.
- Potatoes: Around 77 calories per 100 grams.
- Radish: About 16 calories per 100 grams.
- Onions: Roughly 40 calories per 100 grams.
- Sauce: The calories from the sauce ingredients will vary, but on average, the entire sauce mixture adds approximately 150-200 calories.
The total calorie count for a serving of Godeungeo Jorim will depend on the portion size and specific ingredients used, but a typical serving is around 350-450 calories.
Conclusion
Godeungeo Jorim is a flavorful and satisfying dish that showcases the depth and richness of Korean cuisine. The combination of tender mackerel, hearty vegetables, and a robust sauce creates a meal that is both comforting and nutritious. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or part of a larger Korean feast, Godeungeo Jorim is sure to impress with its bold flavors and delightful textures. Experiment with variations and make it a staple in your kitchen for a taste of Korea at home.
