Incheon Eomuk Bites

Background and History

Incheon, South Korea, renowned for its vibrant coastal scene and rich cultural heritage, is famous for Eomuk, more commonly known as "fish cake." This delightful snack is deeply embedded in Korean street food culture, offering a savory taste of the sea. Originating from the bustling streets of Busan in the 1950s, Eomuk quickly gained popularity across South Korea due to its affordability and satiating flavor. Eomuk Bites, in particular, have evolved as a staple snack or a light meal, especially revered in the Incheon region for their unique twist that incorporates diverse local ingredients.

Ingredients

• Pollock (200g, filleted)
• Shrimp (100g, peeled and deveined)
• Flour (100g)
• Potato Starch (50g)
• Egg (1 large)
• Milk (50ml)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Ginger (1 tsp, grated)
• Soy Sauce (2 tbsp)
• Sesame Oil (1 tbsp)
• Green Onion (2 stalks, finely chopped)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black Pepper (to taste)
• Cooking Oil (for frying)

Preparation

To prepare the pollock and shrimp, start by ensuring they are thoroughly cleaned and patted dry. Blend them in a food processor until a smooth paste forms. Transfer the paste into a large mixing bowl. Add the flour, potato starch, and egg into the bowl. Gradually pour in the milk while mixing to create a consistent batter. Introduce the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions, stirring well. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Cooking Process

Before starting, set up your cooking timer to manage your time efficiently. Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Using a spoon, scoop a portion of the fish mixture and drop it gently into the hot oil. Repeat to cook several bites at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each bite until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides, approximately 3-4 minutes each side. Remove them from the pan and drain on paper towels.

How to Enjoy the Meal

Serve the Eomuk Bites while they are still warm. They pair well with a tangy dipping sauce made from a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and a hint of sugar. For a full Korean street food experience, enjoy these bites with a side of pickled radishes or alongside a steaming cup of soup. Eomuk Bites are versatile and can be a delightful accompaniment to a larger Korean meal or a simple, savory snack on their own.