Nakji bokkeum stir-fried octopus
Korean cuisine is known and loved all around the world for its bold flavors, unique ingredients, and rich cultural heritage. From savory stews and soups to delicate rice dishes, Korean food boasts a vast array of delectable meals. One particular dish that is sure to tantalize the taste buds is Nakji bokkeum, a stir-fried octopus dish that is a staple in Korean cuisine.
Nakji bokkeum is a popular Korean street food that has found its way into many Korean restaurants around the world. It is a spicy and savory dish made with fresh octopus, vegetables, and a homemade sauce that elevates the dish’s flavors to new heights. Octopus is a popular ingredient in Korean cuisine, and Nakji bokkeum is the perfect example of how Koreans can take a simple ingredient and turn it into an extraordinary dish.
Nakji bokkeum is typically served with rice, making it a complete and satisfying meal. It is also a popular dish for special occasions and celebrations, where it is often enjoyed with a glass of soju, a traditional Korean rice wine. This dish has become a symbol of Korean culture, and it is no wonder why it has gained such popularity around the world.
Making Nakji bokkeum is not as complicated as it may seem. The key to a delicious dish is using fresh and high-quality ingredients. The first step is selecting the right octopus. The best option is fresh and small-sized octopus, as they are more tender and flavorful. They should be cleaned thoroughly, removing the head, eyes, and internal organs.
Once the octopus is cleaned and ready, it is time to prepare the vegetables. Nakji bokkeum typically includes onions, green onions, garlic, and chili pepper, providing the dish with a spicy kick. The vegetables should be cut into small pieces, ensuring they mix well with the octopus.
The sauce is what makes Nakji bokkeum so special. The sauce consists of soy sauce, sugar, rice wine, chili flakes, and sesame oil, and it should be mixed together in a separate bowl before being added to the stir fry. The sauce should be adjusted according to the desired level of spiciness and sweetness.
To make the dish, heat a frying pan over high heat and add some cooking oil. Once the oil is hot, add the octopus and stir fry for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly browned. Next, add the vegetables and stir fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent. Lastly, add the sauce and continue to stir fry for another minute or two, or until the sauce has thickened, and the vegetables and octopus are evenly coated.
In conclusion, Nakji bokkeum is a delicious Korean dish that is a perfect example of how unique ingredients can be transformed into an extraordinary meal. This savory and spicy stir-fried octopus dish, which is a perfect pairing with rice or a cold glass of soju, is now a popular staple in Korean cuisine both in Korea and around the world. So next time you’re looking for something unique and flavorful to try, consider making Nakji bokkeum for a truly authentic Korean dining experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh octopus, cleaned and sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2-3 green onions, sliced
- 1 red chili pepper, sliced
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix together the gochujang, soy sauce, honey (or sugar), minced garlic, and sesame oil. Set aside.
- Heat up a large skillet or wok over high heat. Once hot, add some vegetable oil and swirl to coat.
- Add the sliced onion and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until softened.
- Add the octopus and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until they start to turn opaque.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the octopus and onions, give it a good stir, and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes until the octopus is cooked through and coated in sauce.
- Finally, add the sliced green onion and chili pepper, stir everything together for a minute or so, and turn off the heat.
- Serve hot with steamed rice and enjoy!