Easy Odeng Recipe Korean Fish Cake Soup

Odeng, also known as Korean fish cake soup, is a comforting street food loved for its light yet savory flavor. It’s a popular dish during cold weather and is often found simmering on skewers in steaming broth at street stalls across Korea. The combination of tender fish cakes, mild broth, and aromatic seasonings makes it a simple yet deeply satisfying meal.

Origin of Odeng

The dish originated from Japan, where it’s known as Oden, but Koreans adapted it into their own version called Odeng. Over time, it became one of the most beloved street foods in South Korea. Korean Odeng is usually served in a clear, flavorful broth with soy sauce, radish, and green onions. It reflects both Japanese influence and Korea’s own flair for comforting, flavorful soups.

Ingredients List of Odeng Recipe with Pictures

• Odeng (Odeng)
  The main ingredient made from ground fish paste mixed with flour and seasonings. It provides protein and gives the dish its chewy texture.
  
  
• Korean Radish (Mu)
  Adds sweetness and depth to the broth. It helps balance the salty flavor.
  
  
• Green Onions
  Brings freshness and enhances aroma.
  
  
• Garlic
  Gives the broth a mild, savory note.
  
  
• Soy Sauce
  Adds umami flavor and saltiness.
  
  
• Dried Kelp Broth
  The soup base that gives Odeng its signature flavor.
  
  
• Sugar
  Balances the salty elements and adds a mild sweetness.
  
  
• Pepper
  Adds a hint of spice to warm the palate.
  
  
• Water
  Used to make the broth and dilute strong flavors.
  
  

Ingredients with Quantities

Step by Step Odeng Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Begin by boiling anchovies and dried kelp in water for about 15 minutes. This creates a light but rich base for your Odeng soup. Once done, remove the anchovies and kelp to keep the broth clear.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Slice the Korean radish into small pieces and add it to the broth. Simmer for 10 minutes until it becomes slightly tender. The radish will release a natural sweetness that deepens the flavor.

Step 3: Season the Broth

Add soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and black pepper to the broth. Stir well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.

Step 4: Add the Fish Cakes

Cut the fish cakes into bite-sized pieces or thread them onto skewers. Add them into the hot broth and cook for 5–7 minutes until they soften and absorb the flavor.

Step 5: Finish with Green Onions

Sprinkle the chopped green onions into the soup right before serving. This step adds freshness and enhances aroma.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve the Odeng in a bowl with a ladle of hot broth. It tastes best when enjoyed immediately, especially on a chilly evening.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Fish Cakes

Leaving fish cakes in the broth for too long makes them tough and rubbery. Always simmer just until soft and flavorful.

Skipping the Broth Base

Using plain water instead of anchovy or kelp broth will make the soup bland. The broth is the soul of Odeng, so never skip it.

Adding Soy Sauce Too Early

If soy sauce is added before the radish is cooked, the radish might not absorb flavor evenly. Always season after simmering the vegetables.

Using Low-Quality Fish Cakes

Cheap fish cakes can be overly starchy and affect the texture. Choose good-quality ones with higher fish content for authentic taste.

Tips for Perfect Odeng Recipe

Tip 1: Make Extra Broth

Odeng broth tends to evaporate while simmering, so always prepare a little extra. It keeps the soup flavorful throughout.

Tip 2: Add Spice for Heat

For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru). It gives a warm, slightly smoky kick.

Tip 3: Serve with Dipping Sauce

Mix soy sauce, vinegar, and mustard for a simple dipping sauce. It enhances the fish cake’s flavor and adds contrast.

Tip 4: Use Skewers for Street Style

Thread the fish cakes on wooden sticks for a traditional street-food presentation. It makes eating more fun and authentic.

Popular Variations

Spicy Odeng Soup

Add chili paste (gochujang) to the broth for a bold and fiery version. It’s ideal for spice lovers.

Vegetable Odeng Soup

Include mushrooms, carrots, or cabbage for a more nutritious and colorful dish.

Seafood Odeng Soup

Add shrimp, clams, or squid for extra depth and ocean flavor. This version turns it into a hearty seafood stew.

Serving Suggestions

Odeng is best served hot, often as a snack or light meal. Pair it with Korean rice cakes (tteokbokki), kimchi, or steamed rice for a complete and satisfying experience. It’s also a perfect appetizer before a Korean barbecue meal.

Nutritional Information