Actress Song Hye-kyo mentioned that her favorite winter seasonal food is the sand eel.
Recently, an interview video featuring Song Hye-kyo was uploaded on the YouTube channel ‘Harper's BAZAAR Korea’. In the video, when asked about her seasonal food that she enjoys in winter, Song Hye-kyo replied, “Braised sand eel.”
Song Hye-kyo said, “I really love braised sand eel,” and added, “Since my mother used to make braised sand eel every winter when I was young, it’s the first thing that comes to mind when this season arrives.” Let’s take a look at the benefits of braised sand eel that Song Hye-kyo loves.
What is sand eel good for?
Sand eel is in season from November to February. During this time, it is filled with large eggs that burst and the flesh is tender. It is rich in protein and calcium, which are good for boosting immunity and strengthening bones. Sand eel is also rich in omega-3, which is beneficial for vascular health.
Omega-3 improves the levels of triglycerides and LDL cholesterol in the blood. It reduces vascular inflammation, preventing atherosclerosis and hypertension, thus lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The potassium in sand eel helps to expel sodium from the body and aids in stabilizing blood pressure. Additionally, sand eel contains minerals such as phosphorus and magnesium. Phosphorus is necessary for the formation of bones and teeth along with calcium and magnesium.
How to choose fresh sand eel?
How should we eat sand eel, which is good for health in many ways? First, let’s look at the preparation tips for sand eel. To choose fresh sand eel, it is good to check if it is firm and has elasticity. Choosing one with a plump belly filled with eggs will also ensure great taste.
After washing the sand eel clean under running water, cut off the fins and tail with scissors. For egg sand eels, simply remove the insides without cutting the belly open too much. After that, rinsing the sand eel in salt water can help reduce the fishy taste.
Sand eel should be drained well in a colander and then can be cooked by grilling, braising, or in stews. The braised sand eel that Song Hye-kyo enjoys has various recipes, but it is commonly made with sand eel, radish, onion, soy sauce, red pepper powder, gochujang, and minced garlic. Place thickly sliced radish at the bottom of a pot, then layer the sand eel on top, followed by onion, green onion, and chili. Pour the seasoning sauce made with soy sauce and red pepper powder evenly over it, add anchovy broth, and cook on low heat to complete.
