Spicy & Sweet Gochujang Anchovy Stir-fry: The Ultimate Rice Companion
Mom’s Style Gochujang Anchovy Stir-fry Recipe: Better Than the Rest!
Craving a simple yet flavorful side dish? This Gochujang Anchovy Stir-fry is perfect for those days when you’re not feeling hungry or just want something to go with plain rice! If you haven’t found a gochujang anchovy recipe that perfectly suits your taste buds from famous chefs, give this one a try. It’s a comforting, homemade dish that will surely become a family favorite.
Main Ingredients (Tablespoon Measurements)
- 3 cups (approx. 135g) high-quality small anchovies: Choose ones that are not too salty, with a clear, silvery sheen.
- 6 cloves whole garlic: Thinly sliced.
- 2 Tbsp chili oil
- 2 Tbsp oligosaccharide (or corn syrup)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Seasoning Sauce (Tablespoon Measurements)
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 2 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp rice wine (mirin or cooking wine)
- 1.5 Tbsp sugar
- 0.5 Tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 2 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp rice wine (mirin or cooking wine)
- 1.5 Tbsp sugar
- 0.5 Tbsp mayonnaise
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
The key to a delicious anchovy stir-fry lies in selecting good quality anchovies! If the anchovies are too salty, no amount of seasoning will make them taste good. Look for anchovies labeled as ‘coastal catch’ (연근해산) at the supermarket. Choose ones that appear clear, shiny, and silvery. Using high-quality anchovies significantly enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Step 2
Prepare 3 cups of small anchovies that are not too salty and of good quality. Lightly shake off any loose debris from the anchovies.
Step 3
Wash and thinly slice 6 whole garlic cloves. If you don’t have whole garlic, you can substitute with about 3 tablespoons of minced garlic. If using minced garlic, be careful not to burn it while stir-frying.
Step 4
In a bowl, combine all the seasoning sauce ingredients and mix well to create a smooth paste. Add 1 Tbsp gochugaru, 2 Tbsp gochujang, 2 Tbsp rice wine, 1.5 Tbsp sugar, and 0.5 Tbsp mayonnaise. Stir until there are no lumps. The mayonnaise adds a creamy and savory depth to the sauce.
Step 5
Heat a dry pan over medium-low heat. Add the prepared anchovies and stir-fry until all the moisture is gone and they become dry and crispy. This usually takes about 7 minutes, but the time may vary depending on how dry your anchovies are. Keep stir-frying until they feel brittle.
Step 6
Transfer the stir-fried anchovies to a sieve and shake them gently. This step helps to remove any fishy smell and ensures a cleaner taste.
Step 7
Wipe the pan clean, then heat it over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of chili oil and sauté the sliced garlic until it turns golden brown and fragrant. This infuses the oil with garlic aroma.
Step 8
Once the garlic is lightly browned, pour the prepared seasoning sauce into the pan. Let it bubble and cook for about 1 minute over medium-low heat until the sauce thickens slightly. Then, turn off the heat.
Step 9
With the heat off, add the stir-fried anchovies to the pan. Mix them thoroughly with the sauce, ensuring each anchovy is well-coated. The residual heat will help the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 10
Taste the stir-fry and if you prefer it sweeter, add 2 tablespoons of oligosaccharide to adjust the sweetness to your liking. Finally, stir in 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds for a glossy finish and nutty aroma. Your delicious Gochujang Anchovy Stir-fry is ready! ♡
Step 11
After cooking, spread the anchovy stir-fry out on a plate or baking sheet to cool completely before transferring it to a container. This prevents the anchovies from sticking together and keeps them deliciously separated. Once fully cooled, store in an airtight container.
Step 12
This spicy and sweet Gochujang Anchovy Stir-fry is so addictive, it’ll make you want to eat more rice! It’s especially wonderful with plain rice mixed with water (mul-bap). While it might not be an everyday occurrence, it’s perfect for those times when you need a flavor boost!
Step 13
With reduced saltiness and a perfect balance of spicy and sweet flavors, this chewy Gochujang Anchovy Stir-fry is incredibly moreish. Once you try it, you won’t be able to stop! Enjoy your delicious creation!
