skate fish
Hongeo Jjim (홍어찜) is a traditional Korean dish featuring skate fish (hongeo) that is marinated in a bold, spicy sauce and then steamed to perfection. This dish is beloved for its unique texture, intense flavors, and cultural significance, particularly in the southwestern regions of Korea, such as Jeolla Province. While hongeo is often associated with its fermented form—famous for its strong ammonia-like aroma—this version focuses on fresh skate, making it more approachable for those unfamiliar with its acquired taste.
The star ingredient, skate fish, is known for its tender, almost gelatinous texture, which absorbs flavors beautifully. Before cooking, the fish is lightly seasoned with salt and rice wine to enhance its natural sweetness and reduce any fishy odors. The real magic happens in the sauce—a fiery, umami-rich blend of gochujang (Korean red chili paste), gochugaru (chili flakes), soy sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. This spicy and savory mixture penetrates the fish during steaming, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
To balance the heat, vegetables like onions, carrots, and fresh chilies are layered beneath the fish, absorbing all the rich, flavorful juices. The dish is then garnished with sesame seeds and green onions for added crunch and freshness. Served hot alongside a bowl of steamed rice and traditional Korean side dishes, Hongeo Jjim is a delightful fusion of spice, umami, and comforting textures. Whether you're a seafood lover or a fan of bold Korean flavors, this dish offers an unforgettable taste of Korea’s culinary heritage.
1️⃣ Prepare the Skate Fish:
2️⃣ Make the Spicy Sauce:
3️⃣ Prepare the Steaming Setup:
4️⃣ Steam the Skate Fish:
5️⃣ Final Touch & Serve:
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Servings 3
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
✅ Use fresh skate fish if you don’t like the strong ammonia smell of fermented hongeo.
✅ Adjust spice level by adding more or less gochugaru.
✅ For extra umami, add anchovy broth instead of water in the sauce.
✅ Serve immediately, as hongeo's texture changes when it cools down.
1️⃣ What is Hongeo Jjim?
Hongeo Jjim (홍어찜) is a traditional Korean dish made with skate fish (hongeo) that is marinated in a spicy sauce and then steamed. It is known for its bold flavors and tender texture.
2️⃣ What does skate fish taste like?
Skate fish has a slightly sweet, mild taste with a gelatinous texture. If fermented, it has a strong ammonia-like aroma, but fresh skate is more neutral and tender.
3️⃣ Can I make Hongeo Jjim with fresh skate instead of fermented hongeo?
Yes! Using fresh skate makes the dish milder and more approachable. Fermented hongeo has a strong smell and is often enjoyed by those accustomed to its unique taste.
4️⃣ Is Hongeo Jjim very spicy?
It can be! The spiciness depends on the amount of gochujang (red chili paste) and gochugaru (chili flakes) used. You can adjust these to your spice preference.
5️⃣ What is the best way to reduce the fishy smell of skate?
Marinate the skate in rice wine (or mirin) with salt and black pepper for about 10 minutes before cooking. This helps neutralize any strong odors.
6️⃣ Can I cook Hongeo Jjim without a steamer?
Yes! You can place the fish and sauce in a covered pan with a small amount of water and simmer over low heat until fully cooked.
7️⃣ What side dishes go well with Hongeo Jjim?
Steamed rice, kimchi, pickled radish, and seasoned vegetables (namul) complement the dish well.
8️⃣ Can I store leftover Hongeo Jjim?
Yes, you can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat by steaming or lightly pan-frying.
9️⃣ Is Hongeo Jjim healthy?
Yes! Skate fish is high in protein, low in fat, and packed with nutrients. However, be mindful of the sodium content from the sauce.
🔟 Can I use other fish for this recipe?
Yes! If skate fish is unavailable, you can use flounder, cod, or halibut as substitutes. The texture will be slightly different, but the flavors will still be delicious.
