Delicate Clear Broth with Semi-Dried Croaker (Min-eo)
Chef Yang Hee-kyung’s Secret: A Refreshing and Deep-Flavored Clear Broth Made with Semi-Dried Croaker
Clear Broth Ingredients- 1 whole semi-dried croaker (Min-eo)
- 1 piece of radish (approx. 150g)
- 1/2 stalk of green onion
- 1/2 block of firm tofu
- 2 Korean green chili peppers
- 2 red chili peppers
- A handful of chives
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 3 cups (approx. 600ml) anchovy and kelp broth
- 1.5 Tbsp fish sauce or soy sauce for soup (adjust to taste)
- A handful of anchovies for broth (e.g., dried anchovies)
- 1 sheet of dried kelp
- Dried chili peppers (optional, for a hint of spiciness)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, gently rinse the semi-dried whole croaker under cool running water. Avoid washing for too long, as this can diminish its flavor. Cut the croaker into bite-sized pieces (about 2-3 cm thick). It’s even better if you can detach the flesh from the bones.
Step 2
Slice the green and red chili peppers diagonally and remove the seeds. Chop the green onion diagonally, focusing on the white parts. Cut the tofu into 2cm cubes. Ensuring all vegetables are cut to a similar size will help them cook evenly.
Step 3
In a pot, combine anchovies, kelp, and optional dried chili peppers. Add 3 cups of water to create a flavorful broth. Once the water boils, remove the kelp after about 5 minutes, and then simmer the anchovies for another 10 minutes before removing them. A richer broth will result in a deeper flavor for the clear soup.
Step 4
When the clear broth is boiling, add the sliced radish first and cook until it’s halfway tender. Once the radish appears somewhat translucent, season with 1.5 Tbsp of soy sauce for soup or fish sauce. Then, carefully add the cut semi-dried croaker pieces.
Step 5
When the fish is almost cooked through and has turned opaque, add the minced garlic and the cubed tofu. Finally, add the diagonally sliced green onions and chili peppers, and simmer for a short while longer to allow the fresh flavors of the vegetables to meld with the broth.
Step 6
To serve, place the tender cooked radish at the bottom of a serving bowl. Arrange the beautifully cooked croaker pieces on top. Lastly, neatly place the tofu cubes alongside the fish.
Step 7
Garnish with freshly cut chives placed gently on top of the soup. This completes your elegant croaker clear broth, which is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Enjoy it while it’s warm for the best flavor.
