Korean Braised Mackerel Recipe

Korean braised mackerel (고등어조림) is one of those dishes that shows up on Korean dinner tables all the time – and for good reason! This rich, meaty fish teams up with daikon radish, onions, and a spicy-sweet sauce to create the perfect flavor combo. No wonder Koreans call it a “rice thief” – you’ll find yourself reaching for spoonful after spoonful of rice to soak up that amazing sauce.

What You’ll Need for Korean Braised Mackerel

Main Ingredients

• 1 whole mackerel
• 1/2 daikon radish
• 1 onion
• 1 green onion
• 2 Korean chili peppers (or jalapeños)
• 1 red chili pepper

The Magic Sauce

• 3 tablespoons Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
• 1 tablespoon Korean chili paste (gochujang)
• 4 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1/2 tablespoon soybean paste (doenjang)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons cooking wine (or mirin)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• A pinch of black pepper

For the Broth

• 10 dried anchovies
• 1 piece of kelp (dashima)
• 3 cups water

Step-by-Step: How to Make Korean Braised Mackerel

Step 1: Clean your mackerel and cut it into thick pieces.
Step 2: Make your broth by boiling anchovies and kelp in water.
Step 3: Mix all your sauce ingredients together – this is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Put the daikon radish in your pot with some sauce and broth, then bring it to a boil.
Step 5: Add your mackerel pieces and spoon more sauce over them.
Step 6: Toss in the onions, green onions, and peppers, then let it simmer on medium heat for about 20 minutes.
Step 7: Keep cooking until the sauce gets nice and thick – that’s when you know it’s ready!

Pro Tips for the Best Korean Braised Mackerel

Cook the radish first – This brings out its natural sweetness and makes the whole dish taste better.

Low and slow wins the race – Keep it on medium heat and let it simmer slowly. This is how you get those deep, rich flavors.

Say goodbye to fishy smell – Rinse your mackerel in salt water with some ginger before cooking.

Patience pays off – This dish actually tastes even better the next day after all the flavors have had time to mingle!

Mix It Up: Fun Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, why not experiment a bit?

• Potato Mackerel Stew – Add some chunky potatoes for extra heartiness
• Mild Version – Cut back on the spice for kids or sensitive palates
• Extra Savory Style – Use more soybean paste for a deeper, earthier flavor

Why You’ll Love This Korean Fish Recipe

Korean braised mackerel proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients to create something absolutely delicious. With just a few simple items and the right seasoning blend, you can make a dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for sharing.

This is definitely one of those Korean comfort foods that even non-Koreans fall in love with. It’s hearty, satisfying, and goes perfectly with a bowl of steamed rice and some kimchi on the side.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your dinner rotation!

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Please note: We do not encourage underage drinking. Enjoy responsibly.