Indulge in the traditional Korean culinary practice of enjoying the whole fish with Pan-Fried Whole Fish (Saengseon Gui). In Korea, nose-to-tail cooking has always been cherished, and this deceptively simple recipe highlights the delightful flavors of a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior. Perfectly suited for multigenerational dinner parties, this dish never fails to win the hearts of guests, especially the older generations. With the magic of Korean rice liquor and a blend of flavorful spices, the fish becomes a delectable centerpiece that promises to satisfy palates and create unforgettable dining experiences. Delve into the art of cooking whole fish and embrace the cherished Korean tradition with this classic recipe.
INGREDIENTS:
- 3 tablespoons soju (Korean rice liquor) or sake
- 2 tablespoons crushed, minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 medium-sized yellow croakers, scaled, fins removed, cleaned and rinsed
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ tablespoons glutinous rice powder
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Peanut oil for cooking
PREPARATIONS:
- In a large bowl, combine the soju, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the fish with the soju mixture and let sit for 15 minutes.
- In another large shallow bowl, mix together the flour, rice powder, and cornstarch.
- Dip the fish into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
- In a deep large skillet or wok, put at least ¹/₈ inch peanut oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add the fish and cook until both sides are nicely browned, about 3 to 5 minutes per side, adding more oil if necessary.
- Transfer to a paper towel−lined plate.
- Serve hot.
YIELD:
- Serves 4
TIPS:
- This traditional Korean recipe is specifically tailored for yellow croaker (jogi or yellow corvina), but you can experiment with other fish like grouper and striped bass, which yield excellent results.
In conclusion, Pan-Fried Whole Fish (Saengseon Gui) exemplifies the essence of Korean culinary traditions—a celebration of simplicity, natural flavors, and the art of cooking nose-to-tail. This classic dish holds a special place in Korean hearts, as it beautifully showcases the flavors of a whole fish, cooked to perfection with a delightful crispy exterior and a tender, succulent interior. The magic of Korean rice liquor and a carefully crafted blend of spices infuse the fish with captivating flavors that linger on the palate, creating a memorable dining experience.
Prepared with a harmonious combination of soju, garlic, salt, and pepper, the marinade lends a gentle yet invigorating touch to the fish. The 15-minute marination ensures that the flavors penetrate the flesh, enhancing the fish’s natural taste. Meanwhile, the flour mixture of all-purpose flour, glutinous rice powder, and cornstarch creates a crispy, golden-brown coating that adds to the dish’s appeal.
Pan-Fried Whole Fish holds a cherished place in Korean culture, making it a beloved choice for multigenerational dinner parties and gatherings. As the aroma of sizzling fish fills the air, guests eagerly anticipate the moment they can savor the delectable creation. The older generations, in particular, hold a special appreciation for this dish, reminiscing about its presence on dining tables for generations.
The versatility of this dish allows for creativity, as different types of fish can be used to recreate the delightful flavors of the traditional yellow croaker. From grouper to striped bass, each variation brings a unique charm to the table. No matter the fish of choice, the result remains an exceptional culinary experience that celebrates the beauty of cooking the whole fish.
Pan-Fried Whole Fish embodies the soul of Korean cuisine—an invitation to gather around the table and share the joys of food and company. As guests savor each crispy bite, they become part of a cherished tradition that transcends generations. The warm hospitality of Korean dining comes to life, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and joy.
In essence, Pan-Fried Whole Fish serves as a reminder of the simple pleasures found in traditional cooking methods and the appreciation for the entire fish. As the flavors dance on the taste buds and the crispy texture delights the senses, it becomes evident that the heart of Korean cuisine lies in its ability to create extraordinary dishes with humble ingredients.
So, embrace the cherished Korean tradition of nose-to-tail cooking and embark on a culinary journey with Pan-Fried Whole Fish. Delight in the harmonious blend of flavors, the comforting warmth of gatherings, and the joy of savoring a dish beloved by generations. Experience the heartwarming spirit of Korean dining—one crispy and tender bite at a time.
