Simple and Hearty Fish Cake Soup (Eomuk-tang)
How to Make Delicious Korean Fish Cake Soup on a Chilly Day
As the weather gets colder, a warm, comforting soup is just what we crave! Why not try making a delightful fish cake soup (Eomuk-tang) with a clear, savory broth? This recipe will guide you through making a truly delicious and satisfying bowl of Korean comfort food. Perfect for a chilly evening!
Main Ingredients
- Assorted Fish Cakes (Eomuk) 365g (Using various shapes and sizes makes it more appealing)
- Dried Kelp (Dashima) 2 pieces (approx. 5x5cm)
- Radish 5 small pieces (approx. 2cm thick)
- Green Onion 1/3 stalk
- Spicy Green Chili Pepper 1 (Optional, for a spicier kick)
- Skewers for fish cakes (optional, as needed)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the fish cakes. Using an assortment of fish cakes from the market, with different shapes and colors, will make your soup visually appealing and more fun to eat. If the fish cakes are too large, cut them into bite-sized pieces, about 4-5 cm. If you plan to use skewers, you can thread the fish cakes onto them now for easier cooking.
Step 2
Next, prepare the vegetables that will add depth and freshness to the broth. Gently wipe the dried kelp with a damp cloth to remove any surface impurities. Cut the radish into large, 2cm thick pieces. Slice the green onion diagonally, as this helps to infuse its flavor into the broth. If you enjoy a bit of heat, thinly slice the spicy green chili pepper as well. (Removing the seeds can help control the spiciness).
Step 3
Now, let’s make the delicious broth. Pour 3 cups of water into a pot. Add 1.5 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp Dasida (or similar stock powder), 1 tsp minced garlic, and 1 Tbsp cooking wine. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat. Let it simmer briefly to allow the seasonings to meld together.
Step 4
Once the broth starts boiling, add the prepared dried kelp, radish, and diagonally sliced green onion. It’s best to boil the kelp for about 5 minutes, then remove it to prevent the broth from becoming bitter. Continue to simmer over medium heat for about 10 more minutes, or until the radish pieces become translucent and tender, allowing the flavors to fully infuse into the soup.
Step 5
After the broth has developed a good flavor, add the spicy green chili pepper if you’re using it. This will enhance the soup’s refreshing and slightly zesty taste. If you prefer a milder soup, you can omit this or adjust the amount.
Step 6
Finally, add the prepared fish cakes to the pot. Include any fish cakes that are already on skewers, along with the cut pieces. Let the soup simmer over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the fish cakes are tender and have absorbed the flavors of the broth. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.
Step 7
When the fish cakes are cooked through and the soup is bubbling invitingly, your delicious fish cake soup is ready! The combination of the warm, savory broth and the chewy fish cakes is truly wonderful. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with a little more salt or soy sauce if needed.
Step 8
Serving the fish cake soup with the fish cakes on skewers gives it a delightful, authentic feel, reminiscent of street food stalls. Enjoy this comforting soup, with its deep flavor and tender fish cakes, to warm you up from the inside out on a cold day. It’s a perfect hearty meal with rice or a great companion to a cold beer!
