Braised Flatfish (Gajami Jorim)
Braised Flatfish (Gajami Jorim)
Delicious Braised Flatfish with Savory and Sweet Sauce that Soaks Right In
This braised flatfish recipe uses semi-dried flatfish that has been dried until slightly firm. Flatfish, known for its flat shape and white flesh, is wonderful in seaweed soup or mugwort soup, and also delicious pan-fried until golden and crispy. However, when braised until the sauce penetrates deeply, it becomes an exceptionally satisfying side dish for rice. Enjoy this flavorful and easy-to-make braised flatfish!
Ingredients- 2 semi-dried flatfish (approx. 500g)
- 3 slices of radish (cut into approx. 2cm thick rounds)
- 2.5 Tbsp red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
- 5 Tbsp soy sauce
- 3 Tbsp cheongju (rice wine) or mirin
- 1 Tbsp plum syrup (maesilcheong) or corn syrup
- 1 Tbsp oligosaccharide or corn syrup
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- A pinch of black pepper
- 1 stalk of green onion
- 2.5 cups kelp and anchovy broth (dashima-myeolchi yuksu)
- 2 Korean green chili peppers (optional, for heat)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by preparing your main ingredient: 2 semi-dried flatfish, weighing approximately 500g. Semi-dried flatfish has a firmer texture and richer flavor compared to fresh flatfish, making it ideal for braising.
Step 2
Cut the prepared flatfish into three equal pieces. Cutting them into manageable sizes will ensure the sauce is absorbed evenly throughout the fish.
Step 3
To ensure a clean flavor and remove any potential gaminess, lightly rinse the fish under cold running water. Pat it dry thoroughly to remove as much moisture as possible. If there are any blood clots attached to the fish bones, gently scrub them off with a soft brush. This step is crucial for a less fishy taste.
Step 4
Prepare the radish slices, which will add sweetness and texture. Cut 3 slices of radish into rounds about 2cm thick. Make a cross-shaped incision (plus sign) on each slice. This scoring will help the radish absorb the braising liquid more effectively.
Step 5
Arrange the prepared radish slices at the bottom of your braising pot or deep pan. The radish acts as a natural sweetener and prevents the fish from sticking to the bottom.
Step 6
Carefully place the cut flatfish pieces on top of the radish, ensuring they don’t overlap. Overlapping can lead to uneven cooking and inconsistent sauce absorption.
Step 7
Now, let’s make the delicious braising sauce. In a bowl, combine 2.5 Tbsp red pepper flakes, 5 Tbsp soy sauce, 3 Tbsp cheongju (or mirin), 1 Tbsp plum syrup, 1 Tbsp oligosaccharide, 1 Tbsp sesame oil, 1 Tbsp minced garlic, and a pinch of black pepper. Finely chop the white part of 1 green onion and add it to the bowl. Pour in 2.5 cups of kelp and anchovy broth. Whisk everything together until well combined to create the flavorful braising sauce.
Step 8
Pour the prepared braising sauce evenly over the flatfish and radish in the pot. Make sure the sauce coats the fish and radishes thoroughly.
Step 9
Place the pot over high heat and bring the liquid to a boil. Starting on high heat helps to kickstart the cooking process and develop flavors quickly.
Step 10
Once the sauce begins to boil vigorously, use a spoon or ladle to baste the fish with the simmering sauce. Continue basting for about 3-5 minutes over high heat. This process helps the sauce penetrate deeply into the fish.
Step 11
Reduce the heat to medium and cover the pot loosely, leaving the lid slightly ajar. Let the dish simmer. Partially covering allows steam to escape, preventing the sauce from reducing too quickly while still allowing the flavors to meld and the fish to cook gently.
Step 12
Continue to simmer until the sauce has reduced to your desired consistency, leaving a savory glaze. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. The key is to let it simmer gently over medium heat.
Step 13
For the final touch, finely chop the green parts of the green onion and 2 Korean green chili peppers (if using). Add them to the pot and simmer for another minute or two. This adds a fresh aroma and a touch of spicy heat, completing your delicious braised flatfish.
