Crispy & Nutty Anchovy Stir-fry: The Ultimate Side Dish
Crispy & Nutty Anchovy Stir-fry: The Ultimate Side Dish
Nutritious Anchovy and Nut Stir-fry – A Perfect Banchan
This recipe for anchovy and nut stir-fry is a beloved Korean side dish (‘banchan’) that’s both healthy and delicious. The savory anchovies and crunchy nuts create a delightful flavor and texture combination that the whole family will enjoy. Perfect as a lunchbox side or a staple for your meal table!
Main Ingredients- 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts and almonds, half and half)
- 1 cup anchovies (small or for broth)
- 7 cloves garlic
Seasoning- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 0.5 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp cooking wine (mirin)
- 0.5 Tbsp sugar
- 0.5 Tbsp sesame seeds
- 2-3 Tbsp corn syrup or oligodang (adjust to taste)
Additional Ingredients (Optional)- 1 Tbsp minced green onion
- 2 tsp minced chili pepper (for spicy flavor)
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 0.5 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp cooking wine (mirin)
- 0.5 Tbsp sugar
- 0.5 Tbsp sesame seeds
- 2-3 Tbsp corn syrup or oligodang (adjust to taste)
Additional Ingredients (Optional)- 1 Tbsp minced green onion
- 2 tsp minced chili pepper (for spicy flavor)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare all your ingredients. Mix walnuts and almonds in equal parts to make 1 cup. Slice the garlic cloves thinly. If you like a bit of heat, finely mince the chili pepper and green onion. Having all your ingredients prepped beforehand will make the cooking process much smoother.
Step 2
Place a dry, wide pan over low heat. Add the nuts (walnuts and almonds) and toast them gently, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once they become fragrant and lightly golden, transfer them to a separate bowl to cool. Toasting the nuts beforehand helps maintain their crispiness.
Step 3
In the same pan, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil and the thinly sliced garlic. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will impart a bitter taste. This step infuses the oil with a delicious garlic flavor.
Step 4
Once the garlic oil is ready, add the prepared anchovies to the pan. Stir-fry the anchovies in the garlic-infused oil for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are evenly coated. Continue stir-frying over low heat to prevent them from burning and to develop a pleasant texture.
Step 5
When the anchovies and garlic are well-cooked, add the seasoning ingredients: 0.5 Tbsp soy sauce, 0.5 Tbsp sugar, and 1 Tbsp cooking wine (mirin). Stir well to combine everything, ensuring the seasoning evenly coats the anchovies. Cook for another minute or two, stirring continuously.
Step 6
Next, add the toasted nuts (walnuts and almonds) back into the pan. Gently stir-fry them with the anchovies and seasoning for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just enough to combine. Avoid overcooking the nuts at this stage, as they can become tough.
Step 7
Finally, add the minced green onion and minced chili pepper (if using), along with 0.5 Tbsp of sesame seeds. Stir-fry everything quickly over medium-high heat for about 30 seconds to a minute. This rapid stir-fry helps keep the vegetables crisp and melds the flavors together.
Step 8
Turn off the heat. While the pan is still warm, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of corn syrup or oligodang. Adding it at the end prevents the anchovies from becoming hard and sticky, while also giving the dish a nice sheen and a slightly chewy texture. Adjust the amount of sweetener to your preference. Mix thoroughly to ensure the oligodang coats everything evenly. This is key to achieving a non-hardened texture.
Step 9
Your delicious and nutritious anchovy and nut stir-fry is ready! This side dish can be stored in the refrigerator for several days.
