Garlicky Scallion and Fish Cake Stir-fry: Quick Side Dish Recipe
Super Simple Side Dish: How to Make Stir-fried Garlicky Scallions and Fish Cakes
Great for making side dishes quickly.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch garlic scapes (approx. 150g)
- 4 sheets of fish cake (approx. 200g)
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp tuna extract (or fish sauce)
- 1 Tbsp corn syrup (or rice syrup)
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, trim the tough ends and any wilted leaves from the garlic scapes. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water. Then, cut them into bite-sized pieces, about the length of two finger joints. Drain them well in a colander to remove excess moisture, as this will prevent splattering and keep the flavor concentrated.
Step 2
Cut the fish cakes into pieces roughly the same length as the garlic scapes. For a chewier texture and to remove excess oil, you can briefly blanch the fish cakes in hot water before cutting. This step is optional but recommended.
Step 3
Heat a pan over medium heat and add 1 to 2 tablespoons of cooking oil. Add the prepared garlic scapes and stir-fry until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. You want them to be tender-crisp, so avoid overcooking, which can make them mushy.
Step 4
When the garlic scapes are about 80-90% cooked and still have a slight crunch, add the cut fish cakes to the pan. Continue to stir-fry together for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the fish cakes to absorb some of the flavor.
Step 5
Now it’s time to add the sauce! Pour in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of tuna extract, and 1 tablespoon of corn syrup (or rice syrup) along the sides of the pan. Quickly stir-fry everything for about 1 minute to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce. This balance of sweet and savory flavors is key!
Step 6
Just before turning off the heat, sprinkle in a pinch of toasted sesame seeds for added aroma and a nutty flavor. Give it a final quick stir, and your glossy garlic scape and fish cake stir-fry is ready.
Step 7
Transfer the finished stir-fry to a serving plate. This dish is delicious served hot with rice, either as a main topping or as a delightful side dish to complement your meal.
