Tender and Savory Braised Fern Námu
Tender and Savory Braised Fern Námu
A Staple for Holiday Feasts: Braised Fern Námu, Part of the “Samseik Námu”
Námu refers to vegetables that are blanched or stir-fried and seasoned, creating a delicious and healthy dish. ‘Samseik Námu’ specifically means three colors of námu—white, brown, and green—served together in one bowl. Elevate your holiday table with this classic Samseik Námu featuring tender braised fern. Learn how to prepare this essential dish that graces many Korean festive tables.
Main Ingredients- 200g Cooked Ferns: Use pre-cooked ferns, available dried or frozen, for convenience. If using fresh ferns, ensure they are thoroughly boiled to remove any bitterness and toxins.
- 3 Tbsp Sesame Oil: Use high-quality sesame oil for a rich, nutty aroma and flavor.
Seasoning- 2 Tbsp Guk-ganjang (Soy Sauce for Soup): This Korean soy sauce adds a deep, savory umami flavor essential for námu. Using guk-ganjang instead of regular soy sauce enhances the overall taste profile.
- 2 Tbsp Guk-ganjang (Soy Sauce for Soup): This Korean soy sauce adds a deep, savory umami flavor essential for námu. Using guk-ganjang instead of regular soy sauce enhances the overall taste profile.
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the Cooked Ferns: Start with your prepared cooked ferns. If using dried ferns, rehydrate them by soaking in water and then boiling. If using frozen, thaw them. If you have fresh ferns, it’s crucial to boil them thoroughly to remove any potential bitterness or toxins.
Step 2
Soak Ferns to Remove Bitterness: Place the cooked ferns in a bowl of cold water and soak for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Change the water a few times during soaking. This step is vital for softening the ferns and removing any lingering bitterness, ensuring a more pleasant taste.
Step 3
Drain the Ferns: After soaking, gently squeeze the excess water out of the ferns. Be careful not to squeeze too hard, as this can break down the texture. You can also drain them thoroughly in a colander.
Step 4
Stir-fry with Sesame Oil: Heat 3 tablespoons of sesame oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the drained ferns and stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes, until they soften and become glossy. The goal is to infuse the ferns with the rich aroma of sesame oil.
Step 5
Season with Guk-ganjang: Once the ferns are tender and fragrant, add 2 tablespoons of guk-ganjang. Continue to stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring the soy sauce is evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding a touch more guk-ganjang or a pinch of salt. The combination of nutty sesame oil and savory guk-ganjang creates a delicious fern námu.
