Spicy and Sweet Stir-Fried Fish Cake with Kimchi
Spicy and Sweet Stir-Fried Fish Cake with Kimchi
A Mouthwatering Side Dish Made with Kimchi and Fish Cakes
If you still have plenty of kimchi from your winter preparations, try stir-frying it with fish cakes for a delicious side dish. This recipe turns leftover kimchi into a delightful accompaniment that’s perfect for any meal.
Main Ingredients- 1/4 head of well-fermented ripe kimchi
- 4 sheets of square fish cakes
- 1 stalk of green onion
- 2 Tbsp cooking oil
Seasoning Ingredients- 1 Tbsp anchovy sauce
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- 2 Tbsp perilla oil
- A pinch of sesame seeds
- 1 Tbsp anchovy sauce
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- 2 Tbsp perilla oil
- A pinch of sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Rinse the ripe kimchi thoroughly under running water multiple times to remove excess saltiness and any off-flavors. Then, soak it in cold water for about 30 minutes. This step helps to preserve the kimchi’s pleasant sourness while mellowing out any harsh tastes, resulting in a more complex and flavorful dish.
Step 2
Slice the onion into thick strips. Cut the square fish cakes in half and then into 1cm thick pieces. Slicing them to a moderate thickness is recommended, as cutting them too thinly might cause them to break apart during stir-frying. This ensures a pleasant texture.
Step 3
Cut the green onion into 3cm lengths. If you prefer a spicier dish, thinly slice red chilies or Korean green chilies (cheongyang peppers) on an angle to add. (Optional ingredients)
Step 4
Drain the kimchi that was soaking in water, squeezing out excess moisture. Cut it into bite-sized pieces, about 3-4 cm long. In a bowl, combine the kimchi with 1 Tbsp anchovy sauce, 1 Tbsp minced garlic, 1 Tbsp sugar, and 2 Tbsp perilla oil. Gently mix and massage the ingredients to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Marinating the kimchi beforehand allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, enhancing the final taste.
Step 5
Heat 2 Tbsp of cooking oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the marinated kimchi and stir-fry until it softens. Once the kimchi is somewhat softened, add the sliced onion and fish cakes. Continue to stir-fry until the ingredients are well combined and slightly caramelized. Sautéing until the onions become translucent and the fish cakes are lightly browned is ideal.
Step 6
When the ingredients are sufficiently stir-fried, add the chopped green onion and chilies (optional). Stir-fry briefly. Then, pour in about 100ml of water and let it simmer over medium-low heat until the liquid reduces to a saucy consistency. This simmering process allows the flavors of all the ingredients to meld together, creating a richer taste.
Step 7
Once the liquid has reduced to a thick, saucy consistency, turn off the heat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds to finish. Your delicious spicy and sweet stir-fried fish cake with kimchi is ready! It’s a fantastic side dish that will make you crave more rice. Enjoy it spooned over hot rice or serve it as is with any meal.
