Spicy & Sweet Dried Pollack Salad (Ilmi Muchim) – Easy Recipe
Spicy & Sweet Dried Pollack Salad (Ilmi Muchim) – Easy Recipe
A Must-Have Side Dish! Irresistibly Spicy and Sweet Gochujang-Based Dried Pollack Salad
We made a delicious side dish you can keep in the fridge once you prepare it – Ilmi Muchim! This savory dish offers a perfect balance of spicy and sweet flavors, making it an ideal accompaniment to any meal.
Main Ingredients- Dried Pollack (Ilmi) 200g: Cut into bite-sized pieces. For a softer texture, you can briefly soak it in warm water.
- Vegetable oil (optional): A little oil can prevent the pollack from sticking together when stir-frying.
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the Dried Pollack: First, cut the dried pollack (Ilmi) into bite-sized pieces, about 5cm long. If serving to children, you might want to cut them even smaller.
Step 2
Mix the Base Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine 2 Tbsp of gochujang and 1 tsp of sugar. The sugar helps to mellow the spiciness of the gochujang and adds a nice sheen.
Step 3
Add Mayonnaise for Creaminess: To achieve a creamy consistency, add 1 Tbsp of mayonnaise to the mixture. Mayonnaise helps the sauce cling to the pollack.
Step 4
Sauté the Seasoning: Heat a pan over medium-low heat. Add the prepared seasoning mixture and stir constantly for about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it. Lightly sautéing the seasoning deepens its flavor.
Step 5
Enhance Flavor with Plum Extract: To eliminate any potential fishy smell and add a touch of fruity sweetness, stir in 1 Tbsp of plum extract or syrup. Mix well again.
Step 6
Dissolve Sugar: Continue to cook over low heat, stirring gently, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Taste and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar or plum extract if desired.
Step 7
Add Dried Pollack and Mix: Add the prepared dried pollack to the pan. Keep the heat on low and quickly toss to coat the pollack evenly with the seasoning. Be careful not to overcook, as it can make the pollack tough.
Step 8
Combine Thoroughly: Gently mix to ensure the seasoning coats every strand of the pollack. Continue to stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the seasoning to penetrate the pollack.
Step 9
Add Nutty Aroma: Just before turning off the heat, drizzle in 1 tsp of sesame oil for an added layer of nutty fragrance.
Step 10
Garnish and Serve: Finally, sprinkle with a pinch of sesame seeds for a finishing touch. Your delicious Ilmi Muchim is ready to be enjoyed with a bowl of warm rice!
