Ssogarimaeuntang || Spicy Mandarin Fish Stew, 쏘가리 매운탕 Leave a comment

Ssogari (쏘가리): This refers to the Spotted Mandarin Fish or Korean Mandarin Fish (Siniperca scherzeri). It’s a prized freshwater fish in Korea known for its delicate and flavorful white flesh. It’s sometimes called the “emperor of freshwater fish.”

Maeuntang (매운탕): This is a spicy Korean hot pot or stew. It typically features fish or seafood along with vegetables and a fiery broth seasoned with gochujang (Korean chili paste) and gochugaru (Korean chili powder).

Therefore, Ssogari Maeuntang (쏘가리매운탕) is a spicy stew made with Spotted Mandarin Fish.

Key Characteristics of Ssogari Maeuntang:

• Main Ingredient: The star of the dish is the fresh Spotted Mandarin Fish, which has a tender and savory taste without a strong fishy odor, making it ideal for maeuntang.
• Broth: The broth is intensely spicy and savory, thanks to the generous use of gochujang and gochugaru. It’s typically rich and flavorful, having been simmered with the fish and vegetables.
• Vegetables: Various vegetables are added to the stew, such as:
  • Radish (mu, 무)
  • Zucchini (hobak, 호박)
  • Carrots (danggeun, 당근)
  • Green peppers (gochu, 고추)
  • Green onions (pa, 파)
  • Crown daisy (sSukgat, 쑥갓) is often added at the end for its peppery aroma.
• Seasoning: In addition to gochujang and gochugaru, other seasonings like minced garlic (dajin maneul, 다진 마늘), minced ginger (dajin saenggang, 다진 생강), and sometimes a touch of refined rice wine (cheongju, 청주) are used to enhance the flavor and eliminate any potential fishiness.
• Optional Additions: Sometimes, wheat flour dough pieces (sujebi, 수제비) are added towards the end of cooking to soak up the flavorful broth and provide extra texture.

How Ssogari Maeuntang is Enjoyed:

Ssogari Maeuntang is typically served hot in a communal pot in the center of the table. The fish and vegetables are eaten along with the spicy and flavorful broth. It’s a popular dish for gatherings and is often enjoyed with rice and other Korean side dishes. the essence of the sea and is appreciated by those who enjoy the unique flavor of sea pineapple.harvested. You’re more likely to find authentic versions of this dish in areas closer to the sea.

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