Name: Delicious Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake in Just 17 Minutes!
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Ingredients: 3 sheets fish cake sheets (sliced in 1” x ½” pieces); 0.5 onion yellow onion (sliced in 1” x ½” pieces); 1 piece green onion (sliced on a diagonal); 1 clove garlic (minced); 1 tsp soy sauce; 0.25 tsp black pepper; 0.5 tsp Dasida beef flavor soup stock powder; 0.25 tsp fish sauce; 1 Tbsp olive oil (for stir-frying)

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As the vibrant colors of my kitchen ingredients danced under the warm light, I found myself pulled back to a bustling street market in Seoul, where the air was alive with sizzling sounds and enticing aromas. One dish that caught my attention was the Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake, a delightful treat that is both simple and bursting with flavor.

On particularly busy weeknights when fast food begins to feel like a tiresome routine, this recipe feels like a lifeline. In just 17 minutes, you can whip up a dish that not only pleases the palate but also warms the heart. With the savory goodness of fish cake complemented by fragrant garlic and crisp onions, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can bring a taste of Korea to your table.

Whether you’re an adventurous chef or just looking for a quick and satisfying meal, this stir-fry promises to add excitement to your dinner repertoire. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 17 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of fish cake, garlic, and onions creates a savory delight that bursts with authentic Korean flavors.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personalized twist!
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a meal that brings everyone together—you’ll have your family and friends coming back for seconds.
Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of accessible items, you can whip up something incredible without a long shopping list!
For even more quick meal ideas, check out our 30-minute dinner recipes.

Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake Ingredients

For the Stir-fry
• Fish cake sheets – 3 sheets (about 1 cup), sliced in 1” x ½” pieces for that chewy texture.
• Yellow onion – ½ onion (about ½ cup), sliced in 1” x ½” pieces adds sweetness as it caramelizes.
• Green onion – 1, sliced on a diagonal for a fresh garnish and bright flavor.
• Garlic – 1 clove, minced to impart wonderful aroma and depth of flavor.
• Soy sauce – 1 tsp for that essential umami kick that ties the dish together.
• Black pepper – ¼ tsp to add a gentle heat that complements the other flavors.
• Dasida beef flavor soup stock powder – ½ tsp enhances the savory element, making it irresistible.
• Fish sauce – ¼ tsp for that authentic Korean flavor that balances the dish perfectly.
• Olive oil – 1 Tbsp for stir-frying, giving your ingredients a lovely golden sheen.

Feel free to experiment with ingredients to create your own take on this Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake!

How to Make Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake

Heat the Oil: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium-sized pan over medium-high heat. Wait until it shimmers to add other ingredients.
Sauté the Onion: Add sliced yellow onion to the pan and stir-fry for about 2 minutes, until it becomes translucent and sweet-smelling.
Add Fish Cake and Garlic: Toss in the fish cake pieces and minced garlic next. Stir-fry everything together for another 2-3 minutes until the fish cake is heated through and slightly golden.
Combine Remaining Ingredients: Introduce the remaining ingredients: soy sauce, black pepper, Dasida soup stock powder, and fish sauce. Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring everything is well mixed and flavors meld together.
Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is perfectly combined and aromatic, take it off the heat. Transfer to a serving dish and savor the delightful flavors of your Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake!

Optional: Garnish with extra sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Korean Stir-fried Fish Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the fish cake and onions up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and prevent browning. The garlic can also be minced ahead of time for a quick start during cooking. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat olive oil in a pan, sauté the onions, and then add the fish cake and garlic, finishing with the remaining ingredients. This way, you’ll savor the same delicious taste with minimal effort on busy nights!

What to Serve with Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake?

Looking to create a deliciously balanced meal that will impress your family or guests?

Steamed Rice: Soft, fluffy rice soaks up the savory sauce while providing a neutral base that enhances the fish cake’s flavors.
Kimchi: This fermented side adds a delightful tang and crunch, providing a zesty contrast to the tender stir-fry. It’s a classic pairing!
Sesame Broccoli: Bright green broccoli tossed with sesame oil offers a nutty flavor and crisp texture, adding freshness and nutrition to your plate.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that cools the palate with its crunch and sweetness, creating a harmonious balance with the rich flavors of the dish.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of this comforting broth deepens the meal experience with its umami notes, making every bite of the stir-fry even more satisfying.
Green Tea: This light and fragrant drink not only cleanses the palate but also provides a calming presence that complements the flavorful fish cake.
Fruit Sorbet: For a light dessert, this icy treat offers a refreshing end to your meal, contrasting the hearty flavors while soothing sweetness.

Expert Tips for Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake

Slicing Technique: Make sure to slice the fish cake sheets and onion uniformly. This promotes even cooking and enhances texture in your Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake.
Heat Control: Keep the heat at medium-high to prevent burning while ensuring everything cooks quickly. A hot pan is crucial for a great stir-fry!
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic and green onions elevates the flavor. Dried alternatives can dull the dish, so always opt for fresh when possible.
Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t add too many ingredients at once, as this can lower the pan’s temperature and lead to steaming instead of frying.
Personalize Your Dish: Feel free to add in vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. Not only does it boost nutrition, but it adds a splash of color to your Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake!
Perfect Serving: For an authentic touch, serve with a side of steamed rice or kimchi. This balance enhances the whole meal experience.

Storage Tips for Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the flavors intact and prevent moisture loss.

Freezer: You can freeze the stir-fry for up to 1 month. Let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then gently stir-fry in a pan over medium heat until heated through. Enjoy your Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake just as delightful as the first time!

Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists to make this dish uniquely yours!

Vegetarian: Swap fish cake for tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative that provides a satisfying texture.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of gochujang for a delightful heat that enhances the flavors.
Veggie-Packed: Toss in bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition, making it a colorful plate.
Coconut Creamy: Introduce a tablespoon of coconut cream during cooking for a rich, tropical flavor that elevates the dish.
Sesame Toasted: Finish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds to add a nutty crunch and a lovely finishing touch.
Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic to 2 or even 3 cloves, amplifying that fragrant aroma for true garlic enthusiasts.
Soy-Free: Use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option without sacrificing taste.
Herb Infusion: Mix in finely chopped cilantro or basil just before serving for a fresh, aromatic lift to the dish.

Let your creativity take flight and craft a version of Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake that resonates with your taste buds!

Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of fish cake should I use?
For the best texture and flavor, I recommend using Korean-style fish cakes, which are often available at Asian grocery stores. Look for the ones that are slightly chewy and come packed in sheets or a tube. They absorb flavors beautifully and are a staple in many Korean dishes!

How should I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftover Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing it to avoid condensation.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze this stir-fry! To do so, let it cool completely. Then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. Just remember to label it with the date!

What’s the best way to reheat frozen stir-fry?
To reheat, take the frozen Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake out and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then, add it to a heated pan over medium heat. Stir-fry gently for about 5-7 minutes, until the dish is warmed through. You may add a splash of water or a bit more olive oil if it feels too dry!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, indeed! If you’re serving this dish to someone with allergies, note that typical fish cakes may contain soy, wheat, or even shellfish. You can easily make this a gluten-free dish by using gluten-free soy sauce. Also, if you have pets, avoid giving them any fish sauce, as some ingredients can be harmful to animals.

What should I do if my stir-fry is too dry?
If your Korean Stir-fried Fish Cake ends up too dry, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of water, broth, or even a touch more soy sauce to moisten it up. Stir well and heat for another minute or two. This will help brighten the dish’s flavor while adding back the moisture.