Doenjang Jjigae (Korean Soybean Paste Stew) Recipe
Doenjang Jjigae is a hearty and flavorful Korean stew made with soybean paste, vegetables, and often tofu or meat. It's a staple in Korean cuisine and a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients (Serves 2-3):
- 2 tablespoons Doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 1/2 block Tofu, cubed
- 1/2 Zucchini, cubed
- 1/2 Onion, diced
- 1/2 Green onion, diagonally sliced
- 1 Green chili pepper (optional), diagonally sliced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 4 cups anchovy-kelp broth or rice water
- 1 tablespoon Korean chili powder (gochugaru) (optional)
- Mushrooms (enoki, shiitake, etc.) (optional)
- 1/2 Potato, cubed (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Cube the tofu, zucchini, and potato (if using).
- Dice the onion.
- Slice the green onion and chili pepper diagonally.
- Prepare the mushrooms as desired.
- Prepare the Broth:
- Prepare anchovy-kelp broth or use rice water.
- Dissolve the Doenjang:
- In a pot, dissolve the doenjang in the broth or rice water.
- For a smoother broth, strain the doenjang through a sieve.
- Add Vegetables and Simmer:
- Add the potato (if using), zucchini, onion, and mushrooms (if using) to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic.
- Add Tofu and Green Onion:
- Add the tofu, green onion, and chili pepper (if using).
- Simmer for a few more minutes.
- Season and Serve:
- Add Korean chili powder (gochugaru) (optional) for a spicy kick.
- Add a small amount of Korean chili paste(gochujang) if you want a deeper richer flavor.
- Important: Add seasoning little by little and adjust to your taste.
- Adjust the seasoning with Korean soy sauce or salt if needed.
- Serve hot with rice.
Tips and Variations:
- Broth: Rice water adds a nutty flavor to the stew.
- Doenjang: Straining the doenjang creates a cleaner broth.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- Spice: Add more chili powder or chili peppers for a spicier stew.
- Seafood: Add clams, mussels, or crab for a seafood doenjang jjigae.
Storage:
- Store leftover doenjang jjigae in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume it as soon as possible.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Doenjang Jjigae!