Song Hye-kyo, 45, the secret to never aging…Is it thanks to this food she eats every winter?

Actress Song Hye-kyo named sandfish as a winter seasonal food she enjoys.

Recently, an interview video featuring an update on Song Hye-kyo was uploaded to the YouTube channel ‘Harper's BAZAAR Korea.’ In the video, when asked what seasonal foods she makes sure to eat in winter, Song Hye-kyo answered, “Braised sandfish.”

Song Hye-kyo said, “I really love braised sandfish,” adding, “Ever since I was young, my mother would make braised sandfish when winter came, so when this season arrives, braised sandfish is the first thing that comes to mind.” Let’s take a look at the health benefits of the braised sandfish she says she loves.

What is sandfish good for?

Sandfish is in season from November to February. During this time, it is packed with large roe that pops in your mouth, and the flesh is also tender. It contains plenty of protein and calcium, which helps support immune function and build strong bones. Sandfish is also rich in omega-3s, making it beneficial for cardiovascular health as well.

Omega-3s help improve blood triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels. By reducing inflammation in blood vessels, they help prevent atherosclerosis and high blood pressure, lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease. The potassium in sandfish helps the body excrete sodium and supports healthy blood pressure. In addition, sandfish contains minerals such as phosphorus and magnesium. Phosphorus, together with calcium and magnesium, is necessary for the formation of bones and teeth.

How to choose fresh sandfish

Sandfish offers a range of health benefits—but what’s the best way to eat it? First, here’s how to prep it. To choose fresh sandfish, check that it feels springy and that the flesh is firm. If you pick one with a belly full of plump roe, the flavor is even better.

After washing the sandfish thoroughly under running water, use scissors to trim the fins and tail. For roe-bearing sandfish, you don’t need to split the belly wide—just remove the innards. Then, lightly rinsing it in salt water can help reduce any fishy odor.

Drain the sandfish well in a strainer to remove excess water, then cook it as grilled fish, braised fish, stew, and more. While recipes vary, braised sandfish—said to be one of Song Hye-kyo’s favorites—is commonly made with sandfish, radish, onion, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, gochujang (Korean red chili paste), minced garlic, and more. Lay thickly sliced radish on the bottom of a pot, place the sandfish on top, then add onion, scallions, and chili peppers. Evenly pour over a seasoning sauce made with soy sauce, red pepper flakes, and the like, add anchovy stock, and simmer over low heat until done.