Eomuk Bokkeum, also known as stir-fried fish cake, is a popular Korean side dish. It’s made with eomuk (fish cake) that is stir-fried with vegetables and seasoned with a savory-sweet sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it a staple in many Korean households. It's often enjoyed with rice and can be found in many Korean restaurants and street food stalls.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 200g fish cakes (eomuk), sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1/2 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon corn syrup (or honey)
- 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red chili paste), optional for spice
- 1 tablespoon water
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Preparation
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the fish cakes into bite-sized pieces.
- Thinly slice the onion and bell pepper.
- Julienne the carrot.
- Chop the green onions and mince the garlic.
Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, sugar, corn syrup (or honey), sesame oil, gochujang (if using), and water. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved.
Stir-Fry the Ingredients:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the onions and carrots, stir-frying until they begin to soften.
- Add the bell pepper and stir-fry for another minute.
- Add the fish cakes to the pan and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they are heated through and slightly crispy.
Add the Sauce:
- Pour the sauce over the stir-fried ingredients. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly and everything is well combined.
Finish and Serve:
- Add the chopped green onions and give it a final stir.
- Transfer the Eomuk Bokkeum to a serving dish.
- Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.
Tips
- Choosing Fish Cakes: Look for good-quality fish cakes that are firm and have a slight bounce to them. You can find these in Korean grocery stores.
- Adjusting Spiciness: If you prefer a spicier dish, you can increase the amount of gochujang or add some chopped fresh chili peppers.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or cabbage for added flavor and texture.
- Storage: Eomuk Bokkeum can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat before serving.
Variations
- Eomuk Guk: Instead of stir-frying, you can use fish cakes to make a soup by simmering them with vegetables in a broth.
- Spicy Eomuk Bokkeum: For those who enjoy spicy food, add more gochujang or use spicy fish cakes.
- Sweet Eomuk Bokkeum: Add more sugar or honey for a sweeter version of this dish.
Calorie Information
Eomuk Bokkeum is relatively low in calories, making it a healthy side dish option. The following is an approximate calorie count for a standard serving (150g):
- Calories: 200-250 kcal
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
The calorie content can vary based on the ingredients and the portion size.
Conclusion
Eomuk Bokkeum is a versatile and flavorful Korean side dish that can easily complement any meal. Its combination of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors makes it a delightful addition to your dining table. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, Eomuk Bokkeum is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious and satisfying. Enjoy this dish with a bowl of rice and other banchan (side dishes) for an authentic Korean dining experience.
