Crispy and Delicious Stir-Fried Anchovies: The Foolproof Mom’s Recipe
Everyone’s Favorite Side Dish, Stir-Fried Anchovies! How to Make Them Crispy and Long-Lasting::Recommended Simple Lunchbox Side Dish
We’re bringing you the quintessential Korean side dish, stir-fried anchovies, made with Mom’s secret recipe! It’s so easy and delicious that anyone can succeed. The savory and crispy texture is perfect with rice!
Main Ingredients- 2 cups small anchovies or anchovies for broth
- 2 Tbsp cooking oil
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1/2 minced red chili or green chili pepper (optional)
- 1 Tbsp sesame seeds
- 1/2 Tbsp sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, remove the anchovies’ guts and hard parts. Place them in a dry pan and stir-fry over low heat for 1-2 minutes to remove any fishy smell. This step will make the anchovies crispier and less fishy. Set the stir-fried anchovies aside in a separate bowl.
Step 2
In the same pan, add 2 Tbsp of cooking oil. Over medium-low heat, sauté the minced garlic until golden brown, infusing the oil with garlic aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3
Return the stir-fried anchovies to the pan and stir-fry them with the minced garlic for about 1 minute, allowing the anchovies to blend well with the garlic-infused oil.
Step 4
Next, add 2 Tbsp of rice wine (Mirin) to eliminate any fishy odor and enhance the savory flavor. Continue stir-frying for another minute until the alcohol aroma from the Mirin dissipates.
Step 5
Add 1 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 Tbsp corn syrup (Oligodang), and 1/2 Tbsp sugar. Stir-fry while mixing thoroughly, ensuring the sauce evenly coats the anchovies. Adjust the seasoning to your preference at this stage; aim for a balance that’s not too salty or too sweet.
Step 6
Turn off the heat. Add the minced red chili (or green chili) for color and a hint of spice, along with 1/2 Tbsp sesame oil and 1 Tbsp sesame seeds to complete the nutty aroma.
Step 7
Using the residual heat of the pan, toss everything together gently to ensure all ingredients are well mixed and coated with a glossy finish.
Step 8
Your delicious stir-fried anchovies with a beautiful sheen are ready! Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep them fresh and tasty for a long time, making it an excellent staple side dish.
