What is Korean Fish Cake Made Of?

Walk through the bustling streets of Seoul or step into a cozy Korean restaurant, and chances are you’ll encounter the delightful aroma and tempting sight of Korean fish cakes, affectionately known as Eomuk (어묵) or Odeng (오뎅). These chewy, savory treats are much more than just a snack; they’re a cornerstone of Korean cuisine, cherished by locals and food enthusiasts worldwide. But have you ever stopped to wonder, “What exactly goes into making these delicious fish cakes?”

The Heart of Eomuk: What’s Inside?

At its core, Korean fish cake is a type of processed seafood product crafted primarily from a refined fish paste called surimi. But it’s not just fish! A blend of other ingredients comes together to create that signature bouncy texture and savory flavor that makes Eomuk so irresistible.

1. Surimi: The Bouncy Base

The foundation of any good fish cake is quality surimi. This isn’t just any fish paste; it’s a carefully prepared mixture of deboned and minced white fish, often pollock, cod, or croaker. The fish is thoroughly washed to remove impurities and fats, then ground into a paste. This process helps create a neutral-flavored, highly elastic base that’s perfect for forming into various shapes and absorbing other flavors. It’s what gives Eomuk its characteristic springy, chewy texture.

2. The Binding Force: Starches and Flours

To achieve the perfect texture and hold everything together, starches and flours are essential. Ingredients like wheat flour, potato starch, or corn starch are added to the surimi mixture. These binders prevent the fish cake from falling apart during cooking and contribute to its desirable chewiness. The amount and type of starch can subtly influence the final texture, ranging from softer to firmer.

3. A Burst of Freshness: Vegetables

Korean fish cakes often get a vibrant boost from fresh vegetables. Finely chopped carrots, onions, green onions, and garlic are common additions. These aren’t just for color; they infuse the fish cakes with a subtle sweetness, a hint of freshness, and additional layers of flavor and texture that complement the savory fish base beautifully. Some variations might even include bell peppers or shiitake mushrooms.

4. The Flavor Makers: Seasonings

No Korean dish is complete without its signature seasonings, and Eomuk is no exception. A medley of spices and condiments transforms the humble fish paste into a flavor powerhouse:

• Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the fish flavor.
• Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the savory notes.
• Soy Sauce: Adds a deep umami and salty depth.
• Rice Wine (Mirin): Helps tenderize the fish and remove any lingering fishy odors.
• Ginger and Black Pepper: Provide a gentle warmth and aromatic complexity.
• Garlic Powder/Minced Garlic: A foundational flavor in Korean cooking that’s almost always present.

Crafting Eomuk: From Paste to Plate

The creation of Korean fish cake is a fascinating process that combines traditional techniques with modern efficiency. Once all the ingredients are meticulously mixed into a uniform paste, it’s ready for shaping. This paste can be rolled, pressed into thin sheets, or formed into balls or sticks. After shaping, the Eomuk is typically cooked through a deep-frying process. This not only cooks the fish cake but also gives it a lightly golden exterior and a slightly crisp yet tender texture inside. Finally, they are often cut into various sizes and packaged, ready for distribution to markets and restaurants.

A World of Shapes and Flavors: Types of Korean Fish Cakes

One of the charming aspects of Eomuk is its versatility in shape and form, each often suited for a particular culinary purpose:

• Flat Sheets (Napkjak Eomuk): These wide, thin sheets are perhaps the most common. They are often cut into strips or triangles and used in stir-fries (Eomuk-bokkeum) or added to soups.
• Bars or Sticks (Bong Eomuk): Thicker and longer, these are frequently skewered for street food (like on a stick in Eomuk-tang) or sliced into rounds for other dishes.
• Balls (Eomukwan): Round and bite-sized, these are perfect for adding to stews or as a simple, comforting snack.
• Tubes or Cylinders: Less common but used in specific dishes for their unique texture and shape.
• Skewer Fish Cakes: A street food favorite, these are often flat or bar-shaped fish cakes folded onto a skewer and served in a hot, savory broth.

More Than Just a Snack: How to Enjoy Eomuk

Korean fish cakes are incredibly adaptable and can be enjoyed in countless ways:

• Eomuk-tang (Fish Cake Soup): This is perhaps the most iconic way to enjoy Eomuk. Skewered fish cakes simmered in a piping hot, savory broth, often found at street stalls, especially during colder months. It’s the ultimate comfort food!
• Eomuk-bokkeum (Stir-fried Fish Cake): A popular side dish (banchan), where Eomuk strips are stir-fried with vegetables like onions and carrots in a sweet and savory sauce, often with a hint of spice.
• Tteokbokki: Eomuk is an essential ingredient in this beloved spicy rice cake dish, adding a contrasting texture and absorbing the fiery sauce beautifully.
• Gyeran-mari (Rolled Omelet): Finely diced Eomuk can be added to rolled omelets for an extra layer of flavor.
• Street Food Snack: Simply pan-fried or grilled, perhaps with a touch of gochujang or soy dipping sauce, makes for a quick and satisfying bite.

The Health Angle: Is Eomuk Good For You?

While delicious, it’s good to consider the nutritional aspects of Korean fish cake. Eomuk is generally a good source of protein due to its fish content. However, because it’s processed and often deep-fried, it can contain sodium and some fat. Many brands now offer healthier options that are baked or steamed instead of fried, or have reduced sodium content. When enjoying Eomuk, remember it’s best as part of a balanced diet.

Keeping it Fresh: Storage Tips

To keep your Korean fish cakes tasting great:

• Refrigerator: Unopened packages can last for several weeks. Once opened, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 3-5 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, Eomuk freezes exceptionally well. Wrap individual pieces or portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for several months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

Your Eomuk Questions Answered!

Q: Is Korean fish cake healthy?

A: While a good source of protein, Eomuk can be high in sodium and sometimes fat (if deep-fried). Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Look for baked or steamed varieties if you’re health-conscious.

Q: Is Korean fish cake gluten-free?

A: Most traditional Korean fish cakes contain wheat flour or other starches as binders, so they are generally not gluten-free. Always check the ingredient list for specific brands if you have gluten sensitivities.

Q: Can I find vegetarian or vegan Korean fish cake?

A: Traditional Eomuk is made from fish, so it is not vegetarian or vegan. However, as plant-based options become more popular, you might find some specialty brands offering vegetarian or vegan “fish-style” cakes made from plant proteins, though these are not standard Eomuk.

Q: Is Korean fish cake spicy?

A: The fish cake itself is not inherently spicy. Its flavor is savory and slightly sweet. However, it’s often served in spicy dishes like Tteokbokki or with spicy dipping sauces, which can make it taste spicy.

Q: How long does Korean fish cake last?

A: Unopened, packaged Eomuk usually has a shelf life of several weeks in the refrigerator. Once opened, it should be consumed within 3-5 days. It can also be frozen for several months.

Q: Where can I buy Korean fish cake?

A: You can usually find Korean fish cakes in the refrigerated or frozen section of Asian grocery stores, particularly Korean markets. Some larger mainstream supermarkets with international sections might also carry them.

The Enduring Appeal of Korean Fish Cake

From its humble beginnings as a way to utilize fish trimmings, Korean fish cake has evolved into an indispensable part of Korean culinary identity. Its simple yet profound ingredients combine to create a versatile food that brings comfort, flavor, and a taste of Korean culture to every bite. So the next time you savor a piece of Eomuk, you’ll know exactly what magic went into making that delightful treat!