Korean Fish Cakes Recipe – Quick, Savory & Delicious Side Dish
If you’ve ever enjoyed Korean food, chances are you’ve come across Korean fish cakes, known as Eomuk (어묵) or Odeng (오뎅). These chewy, flavorful cakes are a popular street food and also a staple banchan (Korean side dish) served with everyday meals.
The good news? You don’t need to travel to Korea to enjoy them—you can easily make a Korean Fish Cakes Recipe at home in just a few simple steps. This quick, savory, and delicious dish pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or as part of a Korean-inspired spread.
Why You’ll Love This Korean Fish Cakes Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes.
- Savory & Flavorful: A mix of soy, garlic, and sesame brings out bold Korean flavors.
- Versatile: Works as a side dish, snack, or topping for soups and stir-fries.
- Authentic Taste: Similar to what you’d find in Korean restaurants and street stalls.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this simple Korean fish cakes recipe:
- 250g Korean fish cakes (Eomuk, available in Asian grocery stores)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green chili pepper (optional, for spice)
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced into matchsticks
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional but recommended for depth)
- 1 tablespoon sugar or honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish Cakes
Cut the fish cakes into bite-sized strips or squares. If they’re frozen, thaw them first.

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Step 2: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and chili pepper. Stir-fry for about 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 3: Add the Fish Cakes
Toss in the fish cake pieces and stir-fry for another 2 minutes until lightly golden.

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Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar (or honey), and garlic. Pour this over the fish cakes and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Finish with Sesame Flavor
Drizzle sesame oil over the dish and sprinkle sesame seeds. Stir gently, then remove from heat.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Top with chopped green onions and serve warm as a savory Korean side dish.

Cooking Tips for the Best Korean Fish Cakes
- Blanch fish cakes first: For a cleaner taste, quickly dip fish cakes in hot water before cooking.
- Adjust sweetness: Add more sugar or honey if you like a sweeter Korean-style flavor.
- Make it spicy: Add gochujang (Korean chili paste) or gochugaru (red chili flakes).
- Meal prep friendly: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days—it reheats beautifully.
Variations You Can Try
- Spicy Version: Add 1 tablespoon of gochujang for a fiery kick.
- Soup Style: Simmer fish cakes in broth with radish and kelp for Eomuk Tang (fish cake soup).
- Noodle Add-In: Toss into ramen or udon for extra protein and texture.
Summary
This Korean Fish Cakes Recipe is the perfect quick, savory, and delicious side dish that’s ready in minutes. With chewy fish cakes, colorful veggies, and a flavorful soy-garlic sauce, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves Korean food. Whether you serve it with rice, pack it in a lunchbox, or enjoy it as a snack, it’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to recipes.
FAQs about Fish Cakes Recipe
What are Korean fish cakes made of?
They’re made from ground white fish mixed with flour, starch, and seasonings.
Where can I buy Korean fish cakes?
They’re available in the frozen or refrigerated section of Asian grocery stores.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute fish cakes with tofu or fried bean curd.
Is Korean fish cakes recipe spicy?
Not usually, but you can add gochujang or chili flakes for heat.
