Asparagus and Fish Cake Stir-fry: Aglio e Olio Style
Asparagus and Fish Cake Stir-fry: A Delicious Aglio e Olio Twist (featuring the ‘Vegetable of the Gods’ and its benefits)
This recipe offers a more approachable way to enjoy asparagus. We’re stir-frying it with fish cakes in an Aglio e Olio style, creating a delightful side dish suitable for all ages.
Main Ingredients
- 4 stalks Asparagus
- 2 sheets Square fish cake (eomuk)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the fish cakes. Briefly blanch them in boiling water to remove any impurities and make them softer. Rinse under cold water, drain, and cut into bite-sized pieces. You can cut them into any shape you like, but it’s best to cut them to a similar thickness or length as the asparagus for a balanced presentation.
Step 2
Wash and trim the asparagus. Pay special attention to cleaning the tips thoroughly. Trim off the tough woody ends and peel the outer layer with a vegetable peeler for a more tender bite. Cut into desired lengths.
Step 3
Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; the goal is to infuse the oil with a gentle garlic aroma.
Step 4
Once the garlic is fragrant, add the sliced onion and stir-fry until it becomes translucent. The sweetness from the caramelized onions will enhance the overall flavor.
Step 5
Now, add the cut fish cakes and asparagus to the pan and stir-fry together. If you prefer your asparagus extra crisp, you can stir-fry the fish cakes first and add the asparagus towards the end, cooking only briefly.
Step 6
Season the dish. A pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper is often sufficient for a clean taste. For a richer umami flavor, you can add a dash of oyster sauce or fish sauce – feel free to adjust to your preference.
Step 7
Add the sliced bell pepper and, if using, chopped chili peppers. Stir-fry briefly. The bell peppers and chili are optional, but feel free to add any other leftover vegetables you have on hand. Avoid overcooking to maintain their crispness.
Step 8
Finally, sprinkle with sesame seeds and parsley flakes for a delightful finish. The vibrant green color and aromatic flavors will surely whet your appetite!
