How to Make Traditional Korean Soups from Scratch

Korean cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and comforting dishes, and traditional soups are a crucial part of this culinary heritage. Making traditional Korean soups from scratch can be a rewarding experience that allows you to explore the depth of flavors and textures that these dishes offer. Below, we will guide you through the basic steps to create two popular Korean soups: Kimchi Jjigae and Doenjang Jjigae.

Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew)

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of well-fermented kimchi
  • 1/2 pound of pork belly or tofu (for vegetarian option)
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1-2 green onions, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 cups of water or broth
  • 2 teaspoons of gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
  • 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame oil

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the pork belly and cook until it’s slightly browned.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped onions, cooking until the onions become translucent.
  3. Add the kimchi and gochugaru, stirring well to combine all the ingredients.
  4. Pour in the water or broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
  5. Add the soy sauce for extra flavor, and if desired, tofu cubes for a vegetarian option. Simmer for another 10 minutes.
  6. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped green onions on top. Serve hot with rice.

Doenjang Jjigae (Soybean Paste Stew)

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup of doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 potato, diced
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 1 green chili, sliced
  • 1-2 green onions, chopped
  • 2 cups of water or broth
  • Tofu, cut into cubes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, bring the water or broth to a boil. Add the soybean paste and stir until dissolved.
  2. Add the potatoes and onions to the pot. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
  3. Stir in the zucchini and green chili, and continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes.
  4. If using, add the tofu cubes to the soup and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  5. Finally, sprinkle the chopped green onions on top before serving. Enjoy hot with a side of rice.

Making traditional Korean soups from scratch not only connects you with the culture but also offers you the opportunity to customize flavors to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and proteins to create your unique variations. Whether it’s a chilly day or you’re craving something hearty, these soups will surely warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

Try these wholesome recipes at home and embrace the authentic taste of Korea!