Hanpen satsumaage, or fried fish cakes, are a delightful Japanese snack or appetizer, surprisingly simple to make at home. Their delicate, subtly sweet flavor and satisfyingly soft texture offer a comforting taste experience. This recipe provides a streamlined approach, perfect for even novice cooks seeking a delicious and authentic Japanese culinary adventure. Forget complicated techniques and expensive ingredients; this recipe emphasizes ease and accessibility, utilizing readily available supermarket items to deliver exceptional results. The unique flavor comes from the hanpen, a type of Japanese fish cake, which provides a wonderfully smooth and slightly chewy base.
This easy hanpen satsumaage recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight snack or a delightful addition to your next party spread. With minimal prep time and simple steps, you'll be enjoying these crispy, savory treats in no time. Ready to dive into the simple yet rewarding process of making your own delicious hanpen satsumaage? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
Ingredients
- Hanpen (fish cake)
- Ginger: some chopped
- Onion: 1/4
- Carrot: 1/4
- Dried Baby Sardines: some
- Egg: 1
- Potato Starch: 1 tablespoon
- Red Pickled Ginger: a section
- Soy Sauce: a little
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop ginger and onion. Cut carrot into thin slices.
- Mix chopped ginger, onion, carrot, and dried baby sardines.
Step 2. Combine Hanpen and Batter
- In a bowl, whisk egg and potato starch until combined.
- Add the hanpen to the egg mixture.
Step 3. Fry the Hanpen
- Heat oil in a frying pan or pot.
- Fry the hanpen mixture until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve with soy sauce and red pickled ginger.
Read more: Chikuwa Isobeage Recipe: Crispy Fish Cake Tempura
Tips
- If the mixture is too runny, add more potato starch.
- You can adjust the amount of ingredients to your liking.
- It's delicious even without adding anything extra. It's more like a fluffy and delicious dish than a savory dish.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250-350
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 20-25g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen hanpen for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before using. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for optimal frying.
2. What kind of oil is best for frying the satsumaage?
Vegetable oil or canola oil works well. Use enough oil to fully submerge the hanpen for even cooking and a nice golden brown color.
3. How do I store leftover satsumaage?
Store leftover satsumaage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or air fryer for best results.
Making hanpen satsumaage at home is easier than you think, and the delicious results are well worth the minimal effort. Enjoy these crispy, flavorful fish cakes as a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger Japanese-inspired meal. Now go forth and enjoy the fruits of your labor – your own homemade, perfectly golden hanpen satsumaage!