Doenjang jjigae, a hearty and deeply flavorful Korean stew, is a culinary cornerstone beloved for its comforting warmth and umami richness. This rustic dish, built around the fermented soybean paste known as doenjang, boasts a complex profile that balances savory depth with subtle sweetness and a hint of spice. It's a testament to the magic of fermentation, transforming simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. The vibrant flavors are achieved through a careful balance of ingredients and a simmering process that allows the flavors to meld and deepen. From humble beginnings, doenjang jjigae has evolved into a staple enjoyed in homes and restaurants across Korea, a testament to its enduring appeal.
Beyond its deliciousness, this stew offers a fantastic opportunity to explore Korean cuisine. Its versatility allows for creative adaptations, incorporating your favorite vegetables and proteins. Ready to experience the comforting magic of Doenjang Jjigae firsthand? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create this flavorful stew together.
Tools Needed
- Earthenware pot (or large pot)
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Airtight container
Ingredients
- Tenjang (Korean fermented soybean paste)
- Korean radish: 1/2
- Potato: 1 small
- Zucchini: 4 ounces
- Onion: 1/4
- Scallions
- Chili peppers
- Oyster mushrooms
- Pork belly (or pork shoulder, beef, or seafood)
- Tofu: 1/2 block
- Garlic
- Ginger: 2 tablespoons
- Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes): 1 teaspoon
- Vinegar: 1 teaspoon
- Water or broth: 2 cups
- Cooking oil or sesame oil
- Rice
- Kimchi
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Start the Stew
- Cut all vegetables (radish, potato, zucchini, onion, scallions, chili peppers, mushrooms) and meat into similar-sized pieces. Dice the tofu.
- Stir-fry the pork in a pot over medium heat until it renders some fat. Add ginger and gochugaru, sauté for 2-3 minutes.
Step 2. Build Flavor and Cook Vegetables
- Add 2 cups of water or broth (or sat-gat, rice rinsing water) and stir to dissolve the tenjang.
- Add radish, then bring to a boil for a while to allow the broth to develop flavor.
- Add all vegetables except for the pepper and scallions, along with garlic.
- Bring to a boil again and cook for about 5 minutes, until everything is cooked through.
Step 3. Finish and Serve
- Add a teaspoon of vinegar at the end to brighten the flavor.
- Add pepper and scallions. Cook for another minute or two.
- Serve hot with rice and kimchi.
Read more: Instant Pot Chinese Beef Brisket Stew (蘿蔔燜牛腩) - Easy Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of ingredients based on your preference. For example, use more mushrooms if you're not using meat, or adjust the amount of other vegetables accordingly.
- Using an earthenware pot helps distribute and retain heat well, and it's nice to serve the stew directly in the pot.
- The quality of tenjang significantly impacts the taste of the stew.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 350-450
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 30-40g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute doenjang with another ingredient?
While doenjang provides the unique flavor, you can try a mix of miso paste and gochujang for a similar savory depth, but the taste will differ.
2. What can I add to make it spicier?
Add more gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) or a few slices of fresh gochujang to increase the spiciness according to your preference.
Enjoy your delicious and warming bowl of Doenjang Jjigae! This versatile stew is perfect for a cozy night in or a satisfying weeknight meal. From its rich flavor to its simple preparation, we hope you've discovered a new favorite Korean dish.