Korean Fish He
6 servings
40 minutes
Korean-style hwe is a bright, spicy, and aromatic dish that originated from Korean cuisine but has gained popularity in many countries. Its base is fresh fish, traditionally mirror carp, marinated in vinegar essence to achieve a tender texture and rich flavor. This recipe harmoniously combines fresh vegetables: crunchy cucumbers, juicy onions, and spicy peppers, along with spices like coriander, garlic, and cilantro. The spiciness of the dish can be adjusted to taste; however, true hwe should be piquant as is customary for Koreans. It serves well as an appetizer or a standalone dish, especially when paired with rice. Its spicy and slightly sour taste stimulates the appetite while the aroma of spices makes it truly memorable.
1
Fillet the fish, you can leave the head and spine for soup, fry the ribs, or make a salad.
- Mirror carp: 1 kg
2
Prepare a pot with a tightly fitting lid. Finely chop the fillet into it. If using ribs, include one bone in each piece.
- Mirror carp: 1 kg
3
Pour essence over the sliced fish, mix well with a spoon, cover with a lid, and let it sit for 20-30 minutes. If there is a lot of fish, stir 2-3 times during the half hour.
- Vinegar essence (concentrated acetic acid): 20 ml
4
We will slice the onion and fresh cucumber into half rings, along with the hot and bell peppers.
- Onion: 4 pieces
- Cucumbers: 5 piece
- Bell pepper: 3 pieces
- Red chili pepper: 2 pieces
5
Let's inspect the fish; it should be predominantly white, slightly pink. If there is redness, we mix it and cover it.
6
When the fish is ready, we will drain the accumulated juice and start seasoning. We will add salt, red and black ground pepper, ground coriander, fresh cilantro, and crushed garlic to the fish.
- Fresh cilantro (coriander): 1 bunch
- Garlic: 5 clove
- Spices: to taste
7
Let's add vegetables. We'll dress it with oil.
- Vegetable oil: 100 ml
8
We will mix everything well. Put it in jars and in the refrigerator.
9
Koreans prepare dishes spicy. You can cook to your taste, but if it's not spicy at all, it's bland.