Savory Soy Sauce Braised Fish Cakes
How to Make Baek Jong Won’s Spicy Soy Sauce Fish Cakes: The Perfect Lunchbox Side Dish Recipe
Let’s make some spicy and delicious braised fish cakes.
Main Ingredients- 4 sheets of square fish cakes (eomuk)
- 1/4 medium onion
- 1/2 stalk of green onion (or a handful)
- A little cooking oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
We’re going to make a side dish that’s perfect for lunchboxes and incredibly satisfying: Soy Sauce Braised Fish Cakes! This dish features chewy fish cakes coated in a savory and slightly sweet sauce, making it a fantastic accompaniment to rice. It’s simple to prepare and a hit with both kids and adults. Let’s get started!
Step 2
First, prepare the ingredients. Slice the square fish cakes into strips about 0.5-1 cm thick. Thinly slice the onion, and slice the green onion diagonally. If you like a bit of heat, finely chop the Korean chili pepper. These prep steps will ensure even cooking and great flavor.
Step 3
Heat about 1-2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and stir-fry them for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant, bringing out their natural sweetness.
Step 4
Once the onions are slightly softened, add the sliced fish cakes to the pan. Stir-fry them together with the onions for another 2-3 minutes over medium heat, making sure to keep them moving to prevent sticking.
Step 5
Now it’s time to add the seasonings. Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (gochugaru), 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, and a pinch of black pepper to the pan. If you’re using the Korean chili pepper, add it now as well. Stir everything together well and cook for about 1 minute, allowing the sauce to coat the fish cakes evenly and absorb some flavor.
Step 6
After the seasonings have coated the fish cakes, pour in 1/3 cup (about 60ml) of water. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring it to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated, creating a glaze. Stir occasionally to ensure the sauce distributes evenly and prevents burning.
Step 7
Just before turning off the heat, add the sliced green onions and 1 teaspoon of oligosaccharide (if using). Stir quickly for about 30 seconds. The oligosaccharide will give the dish a nice sheen and a touch of sweetness. Turn off the heat, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and your delicious Soy Sauce Braised Fish Cakes are ready!