Korean fish cake, also known as “eomuk” or “odeng,” is a popular street food in Korea that has gained worldwide recognition for its unique taste and convenience. It is a processed fish product made from surimi, a paste made from fish such as pollock or cod, and other ingredients like starch, sugar, and salt. The fish cake is usually shaped into a cylindrical form and served on a stick, making it an easy and fun snack to enjoy on the go.
Understanding Korean Fish Cake
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a closer look at what Korean fish cake is and its history. Korean fish cake has been a staple in Korean cuisine for decades, and its popularity can be attributed to its affordability, convenience, and delicious taste. The fish cake is usually made from a combination of fish paste, starch, and other ingredients, which are mixed together and then shaped into various forms.
Types of Korean Fish Cake
There are several types of Korean fish cake available in the market, each with its own unique taste and texture. Some of the most common types of Korean fish cake include:
- Plain fish cake: This is the most basic type of Korean fish cake, made from a simple mixture of fish paste, starch, and salt.
- Spicy fish cake: This type of fish cake is made with the addition of gochugaru, a Korean chili pepper, which gives it a spicy kick.
- Curry fish cake: This type of fish cake is made with the addition of curry powder, which gives it a warm and aromatic flavor.
Cooking Korean Fish Cake on a Stick
Cooking Korean fish cake on a stick is a relatively simple process that requires minimal ingredients and equipment. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook Korean fish cake on a stick:
Ingredients
- 1 package of Korean fish cake
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1/4 cup of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 1/4 cup of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup of green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup of toasted sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup of crispy garlic, chopped
- 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the fish cake: Cut the Korean fish cake into 1-inch pieces and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the water, chili flakes, sugar, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, green onions, sesame seeds, and crispy garlic.
- Thread the fish cake onto the skewers: Thread 2-3 pieces of fish cake onto each bamboo skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
- Brush the sauce onto the fish cake: Brush the sauce onto the fish cake, making sure each piece is fully coated.
- Cook the fish cake: Cook the fish cake on a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat, turning occasionally, until it is golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Methods
There are several ways to cook Korean fish cake on a stick, including:
- Pan-frying: This is the most common method of cooking Korean fish cake on a stick. Simply heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat and cook the fish cake until it is golden brown and crispy.
- Deep-frying: This method produces a crispy exterior and a tender interior. Simply heat a deep fryer or a large pot of oil over medium heat and cook the fish cake until it is golden brown and crispy.
- Grilling: This method produces a smoky flavor and a tender texture. Simply preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat and cook the fish cake until it is golden brown and crispy.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you take your Korean fish cake on a stick to the next level:
- Use different types of fish cake: Experiment with different types of Korean fish cake, such as spicy or curry fish cake, to add more flavor and variety to your dish.
- Add more ingredients: Consider adding more ingredients, such as diced vegetables or kimchi, to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use different cooking methods: Experiment with different cooking methods, such as baking or air-frying, to produce a crispy exterior and a tender interior.
Serving Suggestions
Korean fish cake on a stick is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
- As a snack: Serve Korean fish cake on a stick as a snack or appetizer at your next party or gathering.
- As a side dish: Serve Korean fish cake on a stick as a side dish to complement your favorite Korean dishes, such as bibimbap or bulgogi.
- As a main dish: Serve Korean fish cake on a stick as a main dish, accompanied by a variety of sides, such as kimchi and rice.
Conclusion
Cooking Korean fish cake on a stick is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this popular Korean street food. With its crispy exterior and tender interior, Korean fish cake on a stick is a dish that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or prefer a milder flavor, there’s a type of Korean fish cake out there for you. So why not give it a try and experience the delicious taste of Korea for yourself?
What is Korean fish cake and how is it typically served?
Korean fish cake, also known as “eomuk” or “odeng,” is a popular Korean street food made from a mixture of fish, starch, and seasonings. It is typically served on a stick, making it a convenient and easy snack to enjoy on the go. The fish cake is usually made from a combination of fish such as cod, pollock, or surimi, which is then mixed with starch, salt, and other seasonings.
The fish cake is then shaped into various forms, such as a cylindrical or rectangular shape, and is usually served on a stick or in a bowl with a dipping sauce. In Korea, fish cake is a common snack that can be found at street food stalls, markets, and even in some restaurants. It is often served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as a sweet and spicy sauce or a savory soy sauce-based sauce.
What ingredients do I need to make Korean fish cake on a stick?
To make Korean fish cake on a stick, you will need a few basic ingredients, including fish paste, starch, salt, sugar, and seasonings. You can use a store-bought fish paste or make your own by blending together fish, starch, and seasonings. You will also need some water to mix with the fish paste to create the right consistency.
In addition to the fish paste, you will also need some starch, such as cornstarch or potato starch, to help bind the mixture together. You will also need some salt, sugar, and seasonings, such as garlic, ginger, and black pepper, to add flavor to the fish cake. Finally, you will need some sticks or skewers to shape the fish cake into the desired shape.
How do I make the fish paste for Korean fish cake?
To make the fish paste for Korean fish cake, you will need to blend together fish, starch, and seasonings in a food processor or blender. You can use any type of fish you like, such as cod, pollock, or surimi, and you will need to add some starch, such as cornstarch or potato starch, to help bind the mixture together.
Once you have blended the fish and starch together, you can add some seasonings, such as garlic, ginger, and black pepper, to add flavor to the fish paste. You can also add some salt and sugar to taste. Once the fish paste is ready, you can mix it with some water to create the right consistency, and then shape it into the desired shape.
How do I shape the fish cake into the desired shape?
To shape the fish cake into the desired shape, you can use a variety of methods, such as shaping it by hand or using a mold. If you are shaping the fish cake by hand, you can simply take a small amount of the fish paste and shape it into a cylindrical or rectangular shape.
If you are using a mold, you can press the fish paste into the mold and then remove it once it is set. You can also use a stick or skewer to shape the fish cake into the desired shape. Simply insert the stick or skewer into the fish paste and shape it into the desired shape.
How do I cook the Korean fish cake on a stick?
To cook the Korean fish cake on a stick, you can use a variety of methods, such as deep-frying, pan-frying, or boiling. Deep-frying is a popular method for cooking Korean fish cake, as it gives the fish cake a crispy exterior and a tender interior.
To deep-fry the fish cake, simply heat some oil in a deep frying pan and then add the fish cake. Cook the fish cake for a few minutes on each side, until it is golden brown and crispy. You can also pan-fry the fish cake in a little oil, or boil it in water or broth.
What dipping sauces can I serve with Korean fish cake on a stick?
There are a variety of dipping sauces that you can serve with Korean fish cake on a stick, such as a sweet and spicy sauce or a savory soy sauce-based sauce. A sweet and spicy sauce is a popular dipping sauce for Korean fish cake, as it adds a sweet and spicy flavor to the fish cake.
You can make a sweet and spicy sauce by mixing together gochujang, a Korean chili paste, with some soy sauce, sugar, and vinegar. You can also add some garlic and ginger to the sauce for extra flavor. Another popular dipping sauce for Korean fish cake is a savory soy sauce-based sauce, which is made by mixing together soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
Can I store Korean fish cake on a stick in the refrigerator or freezer?
Yes, you can store Korean fish cake on a stick in the refrigerator or freezer. If you are storing the fish cake in the refrigerator, you can keep it for up to a few days. Simply place the fish cake in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.
If you are storing the fish cake in the freezer, you can keep it for up to a few months. Simply place the fish cake in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer. When you are ready to eat the fish cake, simply thaw it out and cook it according to your desired method.