lomiloml
Culinary Explorer
I recently made Korean Sundubu Jjigae, and it was an absolutely delightful experience! This spicy soft tofu stew is incredibly comforting and packed with flavors. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you're craving something hearty and nourishing. The combination of silky tofu, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices makes it a standout dish. Here’s how you can whip up your own bowl of Sundubu Jjigae at home:
Ingredients:
- For the Stew:
- 1 package (14 oz or 400g) silken or soft tofu, drained and cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms (shiitake or enoki), sliced
- 1-2 green chilies, sliced (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red pepper paste)
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
- 1 egg (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
- Sesame oil, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
2. Add Vegetables:
- Add the zucchini and mushrooms to the pot. Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Add Spices:
- Stir in the gochugaru and gochujang, mixing well to coat the vegetables.
- Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom.
4. Add Broth and Tofu:
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Carefully add the cubed tofu, stirring gently to avoid breaking it apart.
- Season with soy sauce and salt to taste, if desired.
5. Simmer:
- Allow the stew to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
6. Add the Egg (optional):
- If you like, create a small well in the center of the stew and crack an egg directly into it. Cover the pot and let the egg poach in the hot broth for a few minutes until the white is set but the yolk remains runny.
7. Serve:
- Ladle the Sundubu Jjigae into bowls, garnishing with sliced green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil if you like. Serve hot with steamed rice on the side.
Conclusion
Korean Sundubu Jjigae is a warm, comforting dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for sharing with family and friends. The silky tofu combined with the spicy, savory broth creates a delightful balance that’s simply irresistible. It’s a dish that warms you from the inside out and is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy every spoonful!
