Hanpen, a Japanese fish cake, is often overlooked, but its delicate flavor and versatility make it a fantastic canvas for culinary creativity. This recipe elevates the humble hanpen to new heights with a simple yet incredibly flavorful sesame-grilled preparation. Imagine the soft, yielding texture of the fish cake, kissed by the smoky char of the grill and infused with the rich aroma of toasted sesame oil. It's a side dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly elegant, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a more elaborate meal. The subtle sweetness of the hanpen pairs beautifully with the nutty sesame, creating a harmonious balance of taste and texture.
This quick and easy recipe requires minimal ingredients and even less time. Ready to experience the deliciousness of crispy sesame-grilled hanpen? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and transform this often-underappreciated ingredient into a star of your next meal.
Tools Needed
- Serving tray
- Plastic bag
- Frying pan
- Kitchen scissors
Ingredients
- Hanpen (fish cake)
- Potato starch
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil
- Sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Hanpen
- Cut the hanpen into bite-sized pieces.
- Place one portion of hanpen in a plastic bag.
- Sprinkle potato starch over the hanpen. Don't add everything at once.
- Add water, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the bag.
- Mix the ingredients well in the bag.
- Add sesame seeds to the bag and mix gently.
Step 2. Coat and Season
- Cut the bag to allow easier access to the coated hanpen.
Step 3. Grill the Hanpen
- Heat sesame oil in a frying pan using the water drop method (add water, and when it evaporates, the pan is hot).
- Add the sesame-coated hanpen to the pan. Turn off the heat initially, then turn it back on once everything is in.
- Cook until browned, flipping halfway through. Add more oil if needed.
Step 4. Ensure Even Cooking
- Cook the sides of the hanpen to ensure they are fully cooked.
Read more: Steamed Meat-Topped Tofu with Sesame Sauce: A Delicious Japanese Recipe
Tips
- The order of adding ingredients is crucial for the batter to stick properly. Add potato starch first, then water, soy sauce, sesame oil, and finally sesame seeds.
- Soy sauce helps to brown the hanpen quickly.
- Adding a little sweet miso sauce and serving with lettuce makes a stylish dish.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen hanpen?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely before grilling to ensure even cooking and prevent it from sticking to the grill.
2. What can I serve sesame-grilled hanpen with?
It pairs well with many dishes! Try it with grilled meats, rice, noodles, or as part of a larger Japanese-inspired meal.
This simple recipe transforms humble hanpen into a truly delicious and impressive side dish. The combination of crispy texture and nutty sesame flavor is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy this easy-to-make treat, and don't hesitate to experiment with other seasonings to create your own unique variations!