Baek Jong-won’s Crispy and Savory Stir-fried Anchovies (Jjanmyeolchi Bokkeum) – The Golden Recipe
Baek Jong-won’s Crispy and Savory Stir-fried Anchovies (Jjanmyeolchi Bokkeum) – The Golden Recipe
The Perfect Side Dish for Kids! How to Make Delicious Stir-fried Anchovies Without the Fishy Smell
As my children are eating more home-cooked meals these days, I find myself frequently making side dishes tailored to their tastes. Today, I’m sharing a recipe for ‘Jjanmyeolchi Bokkeum’ (stir-fried anchovies) that combines a delightful sweet and savory flavor with a rich nuttiness, making it a favorite for the whole family. Having this ready in advance saves me a lot of time on busy days! This recipe by Baek Jong-won is particularly special because it eliminates the fishy smell often associated with anchovies, resulting in a crispy, savory treat that kids absolutely love, almost like a crunchy snack. I’ve been faithfully following this recipe for the past 3-4 years, and it truly is a golden recipe that needs no further introduction!
Main Ingredients- 3 cups (approx. 200g) small dried anchovies (Jjanmyeolchi)
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp corn syrup (or rice syrup)
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds (about 1 tsp)
- 2 Tbsp cooking oil
Optional Ingredients (For Extra Flavor!)- 2-3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 red chili pepper
- A handful of nuts (walnuts, almonds, etc.)
- 2-3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 red chili pepper
- A handful of nuts (walnuts, almonds, etc.)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
1. Prepare Optional Ingredients: Thinly slice or mince the garlic cloves. Remove the seeds from the red chili pepper and thinly slice it. If using nuts, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2
2. Remove Fishy Smell & Enhance Savory Flavor: Heat a dry pan over medium-low heat. Add the 3 cups of small dried anchovies and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, being careful not to burn them. This process helps remove any fishy odor and makes the anchovies more savory. Once lightly toasted, transfer the anchovies to a sieve and gently shake off any crumbs or dust.
Step 3
3. Sauté Aromatic Garlic and Chili: In a clean pan, add 2 Tbsp of cooking oil and heat over low heat. First, sauté the thinly sliced garlic and red chili pepper. As the garlic begins to turn golden, a spicy aroma will rise, enriching the overall flavor. (If you’re adding nuts, sauté them at this stage as well.)
Step 4
4. Add Anchovies and Stir-fry Together: Add the prepared small dried anchovies to the pan with the fragrant garlic and chili. Gently mix and stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to break the anchovies as you stir.
Step 5
5. Prepare Seasoning Ingredients: Measure out 2 Tbsp of soy sauce, 1 Tbsp of corn syrup, and 1 Tbsp of sugar. Have them ready.
Step 6
6. Reduce Seasoning for Flavor: Gently push the stir-fried anchovies to one side of the pan. Pour the soy sauce, corn syrup, and sugar into the empty space. Increase the heat to medium and let the sauce come to a boil. Once bubbling, let it simmer for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Boiling the soy sauce briefly adds a subtle smoky flavor, enhancing the depth of taste.
Step 7
7. Combine Anchovies with Seasoning: Mix the stir-fried anchovies thoroughly with the reduced sauce. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring the anchovies are evenly coated with the seasoning. Stir gently to coat each anchovy.
Step 8
8. Finish and Serve: Just before turning off the heat, drizzle in 1 Tbsp of sesame oil and sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds. Give it a final gentle mix. Your delicious Baek Jong-won style stir-fried anchovies are complete! Let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
