Spicy & Sweet Anchovy Stir-fry with Gochujang: A Perfect Side Dish
Savory and Sweet Anchovy Stir-fry with Gochujang Recipe
This recipe uses anchovies, which can be used for making broth or stir-frying. Though they might seem rough and plain, when stir-fried with a spicy and sweet gochujang sauce, they become a delicious side dish that can be stored and enjoyed over several meals. It’s perfect for whetting your appetite!
Main Ingredients
- Anchovies (medium size) 150g
Seasoning Ingredients
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste) 1 Tbsp
- Carrot enzyme 2 Tbsp (or corn syrup/oligosaccharide)
- Minced garlic 2 Tbsp
- Honey 2 Tbsp
- Mayonnaise 1 Tbsp
- Sesame seeds 2 Tbsp
- Sesame oil 1 Tbsp
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste) 1 Tbsp
- Carrot enzyme 2 Tbsp (or corn syrup/oligosaccharide)
- Minced garlic 2 Tbsp
- Honey 2 Tbsp
- Mayonnaise 1 Tbsp
- Sesame seeds 2 Tbsp
- Sesame oil 1 Tbsp
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the medium-sized anchovies, which are versatile for broth or stir-fries. Remove the heads cleanly, and if necessary, remove the innards as well. This preparation step helps to eliminate any bitterness, ensuring a cleaner taste.
Step 2
Place the prepared anchovies into a dry, unheated pan and stir-fry over low heat. This process helps to remove any fishy odor and enhance their nutty flavor. Be careful not to burn them as you lightly toast them.
Step 3
While the anchovies are toasting, let’s make the sauce. In a bowl, combine 1 Tbsp of gochujang, 2 Tbsp of minced garlic, 2 Tbsp of carrot enzyme (this adds sweetness and umami; you can substitute with corn syrup or oligosaccharide if unavailable), and 2 Tbsp of honey. Mix well. For anchovy stir-fries, using plenty of garlic makes a significant difference in flavor, so don’t be shy! Adjust to your preference.
Step 4
Place the prepared sauce mixture over low heat and let it simmer gently. Stir continuously to prevent the sauce from burning. As it bubbles, the flavors will meld and deepen.
Step 5
Once the sauce begins to simmer, add the toasted anchovies to the pan. Stir gently to coat the anchovies evenly with the sauce. Keep the heat low. Be mindful not to let the sauce become too thick and sticky.
Step 6
Now, turn off the heat. Use the residual heat to toss the anchovies with the sauce until they are well combined. The residual heat helps the sauce penetrate the anchovies, deepening the flavor.
Step 7
Add 1 Tbsp of mayonnaise for a creamy and savory touch. Mayonnaise adds a subtle richness and slightly balances the spiciness of the gochujang, making it a flavor profile that appeals to everyone, young and old.
Step 8
Generously add 2 Tbsp of sesame seeds for extra nuttiness and visual appeal. The crunchy texture of the sesame seeds is a delightful addition.
Step 9
Finally, drizzle in 1 Tbsp of sesame oil to enhance the aromatic flavors. The fragrant sesame oil will elevate the overall dish.
Step 10
And there you have it! A delicious and savory anchovy stir-fry with gochujang is complete. Enjoy this irresistible side dish that will have you finishing a bowl of rice in no time!
