Teresa's Recipes
Soondubu Jjigae (Korean Soft Tofu Stew)
Soondubu Jjigae is a comforting Korean soft tofu stew known for its rich flavors and inviting warmth. This dish is a staple in Korean households, often enjoyed during chilly days. The combination of silky soft tofu, fresh vegetables, and a choice of seafood or meat creates a soothing yet spicy stew that tantalizes the taste buds. Traditionally, it is served bubbling hot in a stone pot, accompanied by a side of steamed rice and tangy kimchi, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 (14-ounce) block, cut into cubes Soft tofu
- 1 tablespoon Sesame oil
- 3 cloves Minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon Soy sauce
- 4 cups Water or broth
- to taste Salt
- 1 Egg
- 2 cups, chopped (e.g., mushrooms, zucchini, onion, green onion) Vegetables
- 1 cup, chopped (e.g., shrimp, clams, beef, or pork) Seafood or meat
- for serving (optional) Rice
- for serving (optional) Kimchi
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 2-4
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Sugar: 3g
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients: slice the tofu into cubes, chop your chosen vegetables, and if using, cut your meat or seafood into bite-sized pieces.
- In a medium pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Add the meat or seafood to the pot, cooking until browned and cooked through.
- Next, toss in the chopped vegetables and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Stir in the gochujang and soy sauce, ensuring all ingredients are well-coated with the spicy paste.
- Pour in the water or broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and carefully add the soft tofu, trying not to break the cubes.
- Allow the stew to simmer for about 10-15 minutes so that the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.
- Crack the egg directly into the pot and let it cook for a few minutes until the white is set while keeping the yolk runny.
- Serve hot in individual bowls with a side of steamed rice and kimchi for an authentic Korean dining experience.
Tips
- For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and use vegetable broth.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what's in season or your personal preference.
- If you prefer a spicier stew, increase the amount of gochujang or add some gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes).