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Your Quest for Delicious Korean Fish Cake (Eomuk) Starts Here!
Ever found yourself watching a K-drama or exploring Korean cuisine and suddenly craving that wonderfully chewy, savory delight known as Korean fish cake? You’re not alone! Whether you call it eomuk or odeng, this versatile seafood staple is a beloved ingredient in countless Korean dishes, from comforting soups to spicy stir-fries. But for many outside of Korea, the big question is: “Where can I find it?”
Good news! Finding authentic Korean fish cake is easier than you might think. This guide will help you navigate the best places to buy eomuk, ensuring you can bring the delicious flavors of Korea right into your kitchen. Let’s dive in!
Your Local Hunt: Supermarkets and Specialty Stores
1. Your Best Bet: Asian Grocery Stores
If you live near a major city or an area with a diverse population, an Asian grocery store is almost certainly your number one destination for Korean fish cake. These stores specialize in ingredients from various Asian cuisines, and Korean fish cake is usually a prominent item.
- What to Look For: Head straight to the refrigerated or frozen sections. You’ll typically find a wide variety of shapes and sizes, from flat sheets perfect for stir-fries to pre-skewered fish cakes ready for soup, and even bite-sized balls.
- Popular Chains: Keep an eye out for well-known Korean supermarket chains like H Mart or Assi Plaza. Other pan-Asian markets such as 99 Ranch Market, Lotte Market, or smaller independent Asian groceries are also excellent places to check. These stores often import directly from Korea, ensuring authenticity and a great selection.
- Why They’re Great: You’ll get the freshest options, a wide array of brands (including popular ones like Sajo, Samho, and Dongwon), and knowledgeable staff who can often point you in the right direction.
2. Mainstream Supermarkets: A Growing Possibility
While not a guaranteed find, many larger mainstream grocery stores are expanding their international aisles due to increasing demand. It’s worth a look!
- Where to Check: Start in the frozen seafood section or the international foods aisle. Sometimes, you might find a smaller selection of frozen Korean fish cakes alongside other Asian convenience foods.
- Who Might Carry It: Retailers like Whole Foods, Kroger, Walmart Supercenters, or even specialty food stores in diverse neighborhoods might surprise you. Don’t hesitate to ask a store employee if they stock it!
- Tip: The availability in mainstream stores often depends on your specific location and its demographic makeup. Cities with larger Asian communities are more likely to have it.
Shopping from Your Couch: Online Options
No Asian market nearby? No problem! The internet has made it incredibly easy to source specialty ingredients from around the globe.
1. Dedicated Online Korean Grocers
Many brick-and-mortar Korean supermarkets now offer online shopping and shipping, making them an excellent choice for convenience and variety.
- H Mart Online: A fantastic option, H Mart’s online store offers a vast selection of fresh and frozen Korean groceries, including various types and brands of fish cake. They often have insulated shipping for frozen items.
- Weee!: This popular online Asian grocery store delivers to many parts of the US and boasts a huge selection of fresh, frozen, and pantry items from across Asia. They are known for their efficient delivery of temperature-sensitive products.
- Other Regional Online Stores: Search for “Korean groceries online [your region]” to find smaller, independent stores that might ship locally or nationally.
2. General Online Retailers
Even major online marketplaces can be a source, especially for specific brands or non-frozen varieties (though most eomuk is best stored frozen).
- Amazon: You can find a surprising array of Korean food products on Amazon. Look for brands like Sajo or Dongwon. Pay close attention to seller reviews, shipping methods (especially for perishable items), and expiration dates.
- eBay: Similar to Amazon, eBay can have sellers offering Korean fish cake. Again, prioritize reputable sellers with good feedback and clear information about product freshness and shipping.
- Important Note for Online Frozen Purchases: Always check the shipping policy for frozen goods. Ensure they use insulated packaging and expedited shipping to keep your fish cake perfectly chilled until it reaches your doorstep.
What to Look For: Types and Brands of Eomuk
When you’re at the store (or browsing online), you’ll notice Korean fish cakes come in a few common forms, each suited for different culinary uses:
- Flat Sheets (납작어묵, Nabjak Eomuk): These are thin, rectangular sheets that are incredibly versatile. You can cut them into strips for stir-fries (like eomuk bokkeum), triangles for skewers, or incorporate them into dishes like tteokbokki.
- Skewered (꼬치어묵, Kkochi Eomuk): Often sold pre-skewered, these are the iconic fish cakes you see bubbling in brothy street food stalls. They’re perfect for making eomukguk (fish cake soup).
- Balls and Mixed Shapes (봉어묵, Bong Eomuk): These come in various sizes and shapes, adding different textures to soups, stews, or even as a simple snack.
While there are many excellent brands, some of the most popular and widely available include Sajo, Samho, and Dongwon. These brands are known for their quality and authentic taste.
Quick Tips for Storage and Enjoyment
- Freezing is Your Friend: Most Korean fish cakes are sold frozen or are suitable for freezing. If you buy a larger pack, portion it out and freeze what you don’t plan to use immediately. It can last for several months in the freezer.
- Thawing: Thaw frozen fish cake in the refrigerator overnight or by running it under cold water for quicker use.
- Cooking Versatility: Eomuk absorbs flavors beautifully. It’s a staple in:
- Eomukguk (Fish Cake Soup): A simple, comforting broth with various fish cakes and often radish.
- Eomuk Bokkeum (Fish Cake Stir-fry): Pan-fried with vegetables and a sweet and savory sauce.
- Tteokbokki: The perfect chewy addition to spicy rice cake stew.
- Kimbap: Adds flavor and texture to Korean rice rolls.
FAQs About Korean Fish Cake
Still have questions? Here are some quick answers!
Q: What exactly is Korean fish cake made of?
A: Korean fish cake, or eomuk, is primarily made from pureed fish (often pollock, cod, or croaker) mixed with flour (wheat or potato starch), vegetables like carrots or onions, and seasonings. It’s then steamed or fried to create its unique texture.
Q: Is Korean fish cake healthy?
A: Eomuk can be a good source of protein from the fish. However, its nutritional value depends on the preparation method and ingredients. Some varieties can be higher in sodium or processed fats due to frying, so checking the nutrition label is always a good idea.
Q: Can I make Korean fish cake at home?
A: Yes, you can! While it requires a bit of effort and specific ingredients, homemade eomuk allows you to control the freshness and flavor. Recipes typically involve blending fish with starch and seasonings, then shaping and cooking. However, for convenience, store-bought is usually the preferred option for many.
Q: How long does Korean fish cake last?
A: Fresh or refrigerated fish cake should be consumed within a few days of opening or by the expiration date on the package. Frozen eomuk, when stored properly in an airtight container or original packaging, can last up to 3-6 months in the freezer.
Time to Enjoy Your Eomuk!
From the bustling aisles of an Asian supermarket to the convenience of online shopping, finding Korean fish cake is a culinary adventure waiting to happen. With this guide, you’re now equipped to easily locate this delightful ingredient. So go ahead, find your favorite eomuk, and start creating delicious Korean dishes at home. Happy cooking!