Hoe (food)

Hoe (raw fish)

Hoe is a traditional Korean dish consisting of raw fish or other types of seafood. It is often compared to Japanese sashimi, but has distinct preparation methods and accompanying ingredients that set it apart.

Types of Hoe

There are several types of hoe, each with its own unique characteristics:

• Hwareo-hoe (활어회): This type of hoe is made from freshly caught fish that is sliced and served immediately. It is known for its fresh and clean taste.
• Sukhoe (숙회): This is a type of hoe that is lightly blanched or parboiled before being served. It is often made with octopus, squid, or other types of seafood.
• Mulhoe (물회): This is a cold soup made with raw fish and a variety of vegetables, served in a spicy, tangy broth. It is particularly popular during the summer months.

Preparation

The preparation of hoe involves several steps to ensure the freshness and quality of the dish:

1. **Selection of Fish**: The fish used for hoe must be extremely fresh. Common choices include flounder, rockfish, and sea bream. 2. **Slicing**: The fish is carefully filleted and sliced into thin pieces. The slicing technique is crucial to the texture and presentation of the dish. 3. **Serving**: Hoe is typically served with a variety of side dishes, including ssamjang (a spicy dipping sauce), gochujang (fermented red chili paste), and vegetables such as lettuce and perilla leaves.

Accompaniments

Hoe is often accompanied by a variety of side dishes and condiments:

• Ssam (쌈): These are wraps made with leafy vegetables such as lettuce or perilla leaves. The raw fish is placed inside the wrap along with ssamjang and other condiments.
• Chogochujang (초고추장): A sweet and spicy dipping sauce made from gochujang, vinegar, and sugar.
• Baechu-kimchi (배추김치): A type of kimchi made from napa cabbage, which is often served as a side dish.

Cultural Significance

Hoe holds a special place in Korean culture and is often enjoyed during celebrations and special occasions. It is also a popular dish in coastal regions where fresh seafood is readily available.

See Also

• Korean cuisine
• Sashimi
• Ssam
• Gochujang
• Kimchi