Crispy Fish-Shaped Pastries

Crispy Fish-Shaped Pastries are a fun and tasty treat that always brings a smile to my face. I first came across these pastries at a small street market, where they were being sold fresh and hot. The shape of the fish was so charming, and the golden, crispy crust made it even more tempting. Crispy Fish-Shaped Pastries are not just delicious, but they’re also perfect for sharing with friends or family. Every bite of the crispy pastry is filled with a soft, flavorful filling that makes you want more.

Making Crispy Fish-Shaped Pastries

Making these pastries at home can be surprisingly easy, and it’s a great way to get creative in the kitchen. For the dough, you’ll need basic ingredients like flour, butter, and a pinch of salt. The filling can be anything from sweet red bean paste to savory fillings like cream cheese or chocolate. Rolling the dough out into fish shapes can be fun, especially if you use a fish-shaped mold. Crispy Fish-Shaped Pastries are best when fried to a golden brown, so the crispiness is just right.

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Crispy Fish-Shaped Pastries are perfect for many occasions, from casual get-togethers to more special events. The crispy texture and unique shape always stand out and grab attention. Whether you are hosting a small gathering or just enjoying a quiet day at home, these pastries can be the perfect snack or dessert. Pair them with a hot cup of tea or coffee, and you’ve got a little moment of bliss.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Fish-Shaped Pastries

What makes Crispy Fish-Shaped Pastries so great is how customizable they are. You can change the filling to suit your taste, making them as sweet or savory as you like. Plus, the crispy texture and fun shape never fail to impress anyone who tries them. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned pro, making Crispy Fish-Shaped Pastries is an easy way to add a little extra fun to your cooking.

Chef’s Notes- Crispy Fish-Shaped Pastries

• Pan Heating: Make sure the fish-shaped pan is preheated properly over medium-low heat. If the pan isn’t hot enough, the pastries may not achieve that crispy golden exterior, and the batter might stick to the molds.
• Greasing the Pan: Brush the pan with a generous amount of melted butter or cooking oil to ensure the pastries don’t stick and to promote even browning. Use a paper towel to wipe away any excess oil to avoid greasy pastries.
• Batter Consistency: The batter should be smooth and slightly thick, but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk or water to loosen it up. If it’s too runny, add a little extra flour to thicken it.
• Filling Placement: Be careful not to overfill the pastries with your choice of filling. About 1 tablespoon per pastry is ideal, as too much filling can cause leaks or uneven cooking.
• Cooking Time: Don’t rush the cooking process. Cook the pastries for about 2 minutes on each side. If they are undercooked, they’ll be soggy; if overcooked, they’ll be too dry. Adjust heat as needed, especially with different types of pans.
• Shaping the Pastries: After pouring the batter into the molds, give the pan a gentle shake to help the batter settle and fill the corners of the molds for even cooking.
• Resting the Batter: Allowing the batter to rest for 5 minutes before cooking activates the baking powder, resulting in fluffier pastries with a better texture.
• Cooling: Let the pastries cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. This helps the exterior crisp up and allows the filling to set, preventing a gooey mess when bitten into.
• Customization: Feel free to experiment with different fillings! Try sweet options like caramel, matcha cream, or savory fillings such as spinach and feta, or even a spicy kimchi blend for a Korean twist.
• Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding a dash of vanilla or cinnamon to the batter for an extra burst of flavor. For an additional texture boost, sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the batter before cooking.

Crispy Fish-Shaped Pastries

Recipe by Kimmy

Course: SnackCuisine: KoreanDifficulty: Medium

Servings

4

pastries

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories

179

kcal

Resting Time

5

minutes

Total time

30

minutes

Dive into the delightful world of Korean cuisine with these Crispy Fish-Shaped Pastries! Perfectly golden and irresistibly crunchy on the outside, each pastry envelops a luscious filling of your choice, from sweet red bean to rich chocolate or savory ham and cheese. This easy-to-follow recipe allows home cooks of all levels to create stunning, customizable treats that are sure to impress. Whether you’re prepping snacks for a family gathering or looking to add a unique touch to your snack repertoire, these pastries deliver both flavor and fun. Embrace the joy of cooking Korean-style pastries and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious homemade delight!

Ingredients

• Batter

• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour sifted

• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder sifted

• fine sea salt a pinch

• 3/4 cup milk or water

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

• 2 tsp melted butter

• 1 large egg

• Fillings: (Use approximately 1 tablespoon of filling per pastry)

• Sweetened red bean paste

• Creamy custard

• Rich chocolate spread

• Nutella

• Ham and cheese for savory options

• Additional:

• 1 tablespoon melted butter or cooking oil for greasing the pan

• Alternative Ingredients:

• All-Purpose Flour: Substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

• Milk: Use almond milk or soy milk to make the batter dairy-free.

• Butter: Replace with coconut oil or vegetable oil for a dairy-free option.

• Egg: Use a flax egg 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water as an egg substitute for a vegan version.

• Granulated Sugar: Honey or maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener alternative.

Directions

• Prepare the Batter: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour and baking powder along with a pinch of sea salt. Gradually add the milk or water, stirring continuously to form a smooth batter. Incorporate the granulated sugar, melted butter, and beaten egg, ensuring all ingredients are well combined. Let the batter rest for about 5 minutes to allow the baking powder to activate, resulting in a fluffier texture.
• Heat the Pan: Pour the batter into a jug for easy pouring. Preheat your fish-shaped pan over medium-low heat for approximately 2 minutes. Once hot, quickly brush the pan with melted butter or cooking oil to prevent sticking and promote a golden crust on the pastries.
• Cook the Pastries: Pour the batter into each fish mold, covering about half of the pan’s surface. Add your chosen filling—such as sweet red bean paste or chocolate spread—ensuring about 1 tablespoon per pastry. Cover the filling with additional batter to seal the pastry. Close the pan and cook for roughly 2 minutes on each side, or until the pastries achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior.
• Serve: Carefully remove the cooked fish-shaped pastries from the pan and place them on a cooling rack for about 3-5 minutes to set. Serve warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar or accompanied by fresh fruits. For an extra touch, drizzle with a sweet syrup or a dollop of whipped cream.

Equipment

• mixing bowls
• measuring cups and spoons
• Nonstick Pan

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 179kcal
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 34mg
• Sodium: 133mg
• Potassium: 205mg
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 13g
• Protein: 4g
• Vitamin A: 175IU
• Calcium: 99mg
• Iron: 1.3mg

FAQ- Crispy Fish-Shaped Pastries

Can I make these pastries without a fish-shaped pan?

Yes, you can use any small pancake or waffle maker as a substitute. If you don’t have a specialized pan, you can also shape them by hand and fry them in a regular skillet.

Can I use a different filling than red bean paste or chocolate spread?

Absolutely! Feel free to try fillings like custard, Nutella, jam, or even savory options like ham and cheese, spinach and feta, or mushrooms.

How can I make the recipe dairy-free or vegan?

To make it dairy-free or vegan, substitute the milk with almond or soy milk, replace butter with coconut oil, and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg. For the fillings, choose plant-based options like vegan chocolate spread or fruit preserves.

How do I store leftover fish-shaped pastries?

Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them crispy, you can reheat them in a toaster oven or on a skillet for a few minutes.

Can I freeze these pastries for later?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked pastries. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven to bring back the crispiness.