How to Make Korean Soups That Are Quick and Delicious

Korean soups are known for their rich flavors, vibrant ingredients, and inviting warmth. Making these soups doesn’t have to take all day; with a few quick tips and tricks, you can whip up a delicious bowl in no time. Below are some of the best methods to prepare Korean soups that are both quick and satisfying.

1. Classic Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew)

Kimchi jjigae is a beloved Korean comfort food. Here’s a quick recipe:

  • Ingredients: 1 cup of kimchi, 1 cup of tofu, 1 onion, 2 green onions, 2 cups of water or broth, and seasonings (gochujang, soy sauce).

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, sauté the onion and kimchi until aromatic.
  2. Add the water or broth and bring to a boil.
  3. Add tofu and simmer for about 10 minutes.
  4. Season with gochujang and soy sauce, then top with green onions before serving.

2. Fast Galbitang (Beef Short Rib Soup)

Galbitang offers a rich and savory taste without a lengthy cooking time.

  • Ingredients: 1 pound beef short ribs, 8 cups of water, 1 onion, 2 cloves of garlic, and vegetables (radish, mushrooms).

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, boil the beef short ribs for 5 minutes, then remove and rinse them.
  2. Add water, beef, onion, and garlic back into the pot and bring to a boil.
  3. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for about an hour.
  4. Add radish and mushrooms, cooking for another 20 minutes.
  5. Season to taste and serve hot.

3. Simple Doenjang Jjigae (Soybean Paste Stew)

A favorite for its hearty ingredients, doenjang jjigae can be made in under 30 minutes!

  • Ingredients: 3 tablespoons doenjang, 1 zucchini, 1 potato, 1 cup of tofu, 1 onion, and 4 cups of water.

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, combine water and doenjang, stirring until dissolved.
  2. Add potato and onion, cooking until tender.
  3. Stir in zucchini and tofu, simmer for 10 more minutes.
  4. Season if needed and serve with rice.

4. Quick Sundubu Jjigae (Soft Tofu Stew)

Sundubu jjigae is rich in flavor and can be ready in just 20 minutes!

  • Ingredients: 1 pack of soft tofu, 1 cup of seafood (optional), 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes), 1 onion, and 2 cups of broth.

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, sauté onion until translucent, then add gochugaru and seafood.
  2. Add broth and bring to a boil.
  3. Carefully add the soft tofu and simmer for about 5 minutes.
  4. Serve immediately with a raw egg on top if desired.

5. Instant Ramen-Style Korean Soup

Perfect for those days when time is short, this Korean twist on instant ramen is quick and flavorful.

  • Ingredients: Instant ramen, 1 egg, 1 cup of vegetables (spinach, mushrooms), and kimchi.

Instructions:

  1. Boil 2 cups of water in a pot.
  2. Add vegetables and instant ramen, cooking as per package instructions (typically about 3 minutes).
  3. In the last minute, crack an egg into the pot and stir gently to let it cook.
  4. Serve topped with kimchi for that extra kick!