Deliciously Spicy and Sweet Marinated Raw Crabs (Yangnyeom Gejang)
Homemade Restaurant-Quality Marinated Raw Crabs Recipe with the Perfect Sauce Ratio
Let’s make a truly delicious Yangnyeom Gejang at home that tastes just like it came from a renowned crab restaurant. This dish is a perfect accompaniment to rice!
Main Ingredients- 4 fresh blue crabs
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Today, we’re going to make a delicious Yangnyeom Gejang that everyone, young and old, loves. With this tasty marinated crab, you won’t need any other side dishes – it’s a perfect ‘rice thief’!
Step 2
It’s important to wash the fresh crabs thoroughly under cold running water. Use a toothbrush to scrub diligently between the shell crevices. Gently lift and remove the crab’s carapace (shell). Carefully remove the innards and any sharp bits from the legs. Also, trim off the dark, sponge-like gills on the sides of the body, as they can be a source of unpleasant taste. These steps help reduce any fishy odor and ensure a clean flavor.
Step 3
After cleaning, cut the crabs into 4 equal pieces. This size makes it easier for the seasoning to penetrate, allows children to eat them comfortably, and is convenient for storage. Be careful not to cut them too small, as the meat might break apart. Aim for a bite-sized portion.
Step 4
Now, let’s prepare the flavorful sauce! In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, minced garlic, cheongju (rice wine), gochugaru (Korean chili powder), toasted sesame seeds, maesilcheong (plum extract), and fish sauce. Mix them well. This specific ratio of ingredients ensures a balanced flavor and adds a savory depth. If you want a brighter red color, you can use less soy sauce and adjust the saltiness with fish sauce or salt. I opted for a combination of soy sauce and fish sauce for a richer taste.
Step 5
Using fish sauce not only adds saltiness but also significantly enhances the overall depth and richness of the Yangnyeom Gejang. It works to amplify the natural flavors of the crab while maximizing the umami sensation. You can adjust the amount of fish sauce according to your preference.
Step 6
It’s best to mix the sauce into the crab pieces using tongs or a spoon, rather than your hands. This prevents staining your hands and avoids any potential irritation from the ingredients. Gently mix until all the seasonings are evenly distributed and well incorporated.
Step 7
When mixing the marinade, we strongly recommend using kitchen utensils instead of your hands. As mentioned, this not only prevents your hands from getting stained or irritated but also helps distribute the seasoning more uniformly onto the crab pieces, leading to a better final taste.
Step 8
And there you have it – your delicious homemade Yangnyeom Gejang is ready! Serve it over a bowl of freshly steamed hot rice, and the spicy-sweet flavors bursting in your mouth will make your rice disappear in no time. Enjoy your meal!
