Eomuk

Eomuk, also known as odeng, is a Korean fish cake. It is a processed food made from ground fish, starch, and seasonings. Eomuk is a popular ingredient in Korean cuisine, often found in stews, soups, and as a side dish.

The primary ingredient in eomuk is white fish, such as pollock or cod, which is finely ground and mixed with various starches like potato or wheat starch. Seasonings can include salt, sugar, and sometimes a touch of mirin or sake for preservation and flavor. The mixture is then typically formed into flat, rectangular shapes or sometimes cylindrical logs.

Eomuk is commonly sold in supermarkets and traditional markets in Korea, often found refrigerated or frozen. It can be purchased in various forms, including fresh, dried, or pre-cooked.

In Korean cooking, eomuk is extremely versatile. A very common preparation is in eomuk bokkeum, a stir-fried dish often seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and vegetables like onions and carrots. It is also a key component in eomuk tang, a clear, savory broth-based soup, often served with radishes and other vegetables. Street food stalls frequently offer skewers of eomuk simmered in a flavorful broth, providing a warm and satisfying snack, especially during colder months. The texture of eomuk is typically firm yet chewy.