Authentic Korean Samchi Gui (Grilled Spanish Mackerel) Recipe

Ingredients

500g Samchi (Spanish mackerel)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice wine
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean chili powder)
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
2 green onions, chopped

Steps and instructions

Clean the Samchi (Spanish mackerel) and pat dry with a paper towel.
In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, rice wine, minced garlic, grated ginger, gochugaru, honey, and sesame oil to make the marinade.
Place the cleaned fish in a dish and pour the marinade over it. Ensure that the fish is well-coated with the marinade.
Allow the fish to marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated fish to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until the fish is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Place the cooked fish on a serving dish and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Serve the Samchi gui hot with steamed rice and kimchi.

Tools for making

Cutting board - Used for preparing the fish and other ingredients.
Knife - Essential for cutting and cleaning the fish.
Mixing bowl - Used for preparing the marinade.
Whisk - Helps to mix the marinade ingredients thoroughly.
Dish - Used to marinate the fish.
Pan - Used for cooking the marinated fish.
Spatula - Helps in flipping the fish during cooking.
Serving dish - For presenting the cooked Samchi gui.
Toasted sesame seeds - For garnishing the dish.

Recipe variations

Use a different type of fish, such as salmon or cod, instead of Samchi.
Experiment with different marinades, such as a teriyaki sauce or a spicy gochujang-based marinade.
Add vegetables like sliced bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the pan while cooking the fish.
Try grilling the fish instead of pan-frying it for a smoky flavor.
For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Make it vegetarian by substituting the fish with tofu or tempeh and adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Add a touch of citrus by squeezing fresh lemon or lime juice over the cooked fish.
For a spicier version, increase the amount of gochugaru or add some crushed red pepper flakes.
Sprinkle some chopped cilantro or basil leaves as a garnish for added freshness.
Incorporate a Korean ssam-style serving by wrapping the cooked fish in lettuce leaves along with rice, kimchi, and other desired toppings.

Recipe overview

Savor the taste of traditional Korean cuisine with this delightful Samchi Gui recipe. Samchi Gui, a classic dish made with Spanish mackerel, is known for its rich flavors and crispy texture. The fish is marinated in a blend of savory and spicy ingredients, including soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and Korean chili powder, then pan-fried to perfection. Topped off with toasted sesame seeds and green onions, it makes for a truly satisfying meal that's sure to impress. Pair it with steamed rice and kimchi for the ultimate dining experience. Enjoy cooking and relishing this authentic Korean delicacy!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of fish instead of Samchi? Yes, you can use other types of fish like mackerel or any firm white fish as a substitute for Samchi in this recipe.
How long should I marinate the fish? It is recommended to marinate the fish for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to infuse.
Can I grill the fish instead of pan-frying it? Yes, you can grill the marinated fish instead of pan-frying it. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the fish for about 5 minutes on each side or until it is cooked through.
Is gochugaru necessary for this recipe? Gochugaru adds a distinct Korean flavor and a bit of heat to the dish, but if you don't have it, you can substitute it with red pepper flakes or paprika.
Can I adjust the amount of honey to make it less sweet? Yes, you can adjust the amount of honey according to your taste preferences. You can reduce the amount for a less sweet flavor or increase it for a sweeter taste.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A bowl to mix the marinade ingredients.
Dish - A dish to marinate the fish.
Pan - A frying pan to cook the fish.
Paper Towel - To pat dry the fish.
Spatula - To flip the fish while cooking.
Serving Dish - A dish to present the cooked fish.
Tongs - To handle the fish while cooking and serving.
Knife - To chop the green onions.
Cutting Board - To chop the green onions.

Origin stories

Samchi gui, a popular dish in South Korea, has a simple yet profound origin. A testament to the hearty spirit of coastal Korean cities, this dish was traditionally made with freshly caught Spanish mackerel, a fish plentiful in the surrounding waters. The Korean term 'gui' refers to any grilled dish, and mackerel being a common catch and staple in Korean households, it naturally became a beloved part of their cuisine. The Korean style of grilling maintains the integrity of the fresh fish while enhancing its flavor with a sweet-spicy marinade. Korean households often have their own variations of the marinade, making each serving of Samchi gui a unique, personal culinary experience. The dish is traditionally served with hot steamed rice and kimchi, reflecting the balanced, harmonious nature of Korean cuisine. Every bite of Samchi gui not only satiates the palate but also carries a taste of the sea and a piece of Korean coastal heritage.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.