How to Make Savory and Spicy Korean Braised Mackerel (Godeungeo Jorim) in 7 Steps

Godeungeo Jorim, or Korean Braised Mackerel, is a beloved dish in Korean cuisine known for its rich, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. This dish features mackerel simmered in a flavorful sauce made with gochujang (Korean red chili paste), soy sauce, garlic, and vegetables like radish and potatoes. Godeungeo Jorim is a hearty and satisfying dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice, making it a staple in many Korean households.

Introduction to Godeungeo Jorim

Godeungeo Jorim is a dish that brings out the natural richness of mackerel, which is a popular fish in Korea due to its high omega-3 content and robust flavor. The fish is braised in a sauce that balances the heat from gochujang with the umami of soy sauce and the sweetness of vegetables. This slow-cooking process allows the mackerel to absorb the deep flavors of the sauce while staying tender and moist. The result is a dish that is both flavorful and nutritious, making it a favorite for family meals.

Ingredients for Godeungeo Jorim (2-3 Servings)

To prepare Godeungeo Jorim for two to three people, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Mackerel (godeungeo): 1 whole, cleaned and cut into 3-4 pieces
• Korean radish (mu): 100g, sliced into thick half-moons
• Potato: 1 medium, peeled and sliced
• Onion: 1, sliced
• Green chili pepper: 1, sliced (optional, for extra heat)
• Green onions: 2 stalks, chopped
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Ginger: 1 tsp, minced
• Sesame seeds: 1 tsp (optional, for garnish)
• Water: 2 cups

For the Sauce:

• Gochujang (Korean red chili paste): 2 tbsp
• Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes): 1 tbsp
• Soy sauce: 3 tbsp
• Rice wine or mirin: 1 tbsp (optional, for depth of flavor)
• Sugar or honey: 1 tbsp
• Sesame oil: 1 tsp
• Black pepper: 1/2 tsp

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Mackerel

Start by cleaning the mackerel if it hasn’t been cleaned already. Cut the fish into 3-4 large pieces. Rinse the fish under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Set the mackerel pieces aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Slice the Korean radish into thick half-moons and peel and slice the potato. Slice the onion and green chili pepper, and chop the green onions. Mince the garlic and ginger. Having all your vegetables prepped and ready will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, rice wine (if using), sugar or honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and all the ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients in a Pot

In a wide, shallow pot, arrange the sliced radish and potato at the bottom. These vegetables will help prevent the fish from sticking to the pot and will absorb the flavors of the sauce as they cook. Place the mackerel pieces on top of the vegetables, followed by the sliced onions and green chili pepper.

Step 5: Add the Sauce and Water

Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the mackerel and vegetables. Add 2 cups of water to the pot, ensuring that the liquid covers most of the ingredients. This will help braise the fish and vegetables as they cook. If necessary, adjust the amount of water depending on the size of your pot.

Step 6: Simmer the Stew

Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. During this time, the mackerel will absorb the rich flavors of the sauce, and the vegetables will become tender. Occasionally spoon some of the sauce over the fish to ensure it remains moist and flavorful.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the mackerel and vegetables are fully cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Garnish the Godeungeo Jorim with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired. Serve the dish hot with steamed rice, which will help balance the bold, savory flavors of the braised mackerel. Enjoy the tender fish and the rich, flavorful sauce that makes Godeungeo Jorim a beloved dish in Korean cuisine.

Tips for Perfect Godeungeo Jorim

1. Use Fresh Mackerel: Fresh mackerel will provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen mackerel, make sure it is fully thawed before cooking.
2. Adjust the Spice Level: Godeungeo Jorim is typically a bit spicy, but you can adjust the heat by adding more or less gochujang and gochugaru to suit your taste.
3. Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots to the stew for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Godeungeo Jorim is a flavorful and nutritious dish that highlights the rich taste of mackerel in a savory, spicy sauce. This dish is perfect for a comforting family meal and pairs wonderfully with steamed rice. By following these seven steps, you can create an authentic and delicious Godeungeo Jorim at home, bringing a taste of traditional Korean cuisine to your table.