Stir-Fried Anchovies (Myeolchi bokkeum)

Myeolchi bokkeum is a traditional South Korean stir-fry. The dish is made with a combination of dried anchovies, gochujang hot pepper paste, garlic, sesame seeds, soy sauce, sesame oil, vegetable oil, and sugar. The anchovies are stir-fried in hot vegetable oil until crisp.

Gochujang is mixed with soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and water, and the seasoning mixture is gently stirred in the same skillet until bubbling. The anchovies are mixed with the seasoning until well coated, and the dish is finished with the addition of sesame oil and seeds.

Myeolchi bokkeum can be served hot or cold as a side dish. Every Korean family has their own recipe, and the dish can often be found in lunchboxes because it's a great source of calcium.