Doenjang jjigae, or soybean paste stew, is a Korean culinary staple renowned for its savory depth and comforting warmth. This hearty stew is incredibly versatile, easily adaptable to whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a satisfying weekend lunch. Its rich, umami flavor comes from the fermented soybean paste, doenjang, which provides a complex taste profile unlike anything else. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity – a few key ingredients simmered together to create a truly magical flavor combination. Beyond its deliciousness, doenjang jjigae offers nutritional benefits, boasting protein from the soybean paste and a wealth of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
This no-fail recipe will guide you through creating a perfectly balanced and flavorful Doenjang Jjigae, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pot
Ingredients
- Radish: 120g
- Onion: 70g
- Potato: Half of a standard size (optional)
- Zucchini: 80g
- Green pepper: 1
- Red pepper: 1
- Garlic: 3 cloves
- Tofu
- Soybean paste (Doenjang): 3 tablespoons
- Red pepper paste (Gochujang): 1/2 tablespoon
- Anchovy broth (or other broth): 1 coin (approx. 1 tbsp)
- Red pepper powder (Gochugaru): 1 spoon
- Kelp (Dried): 5 pieces
- Rice water: 600ml
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Broth
- Cut radish into bite-size pieces, dice onion, and prepare potato (optional) and zucchini (cut into small pieces). Cut peppers into strips and mince garlic.
- Boil rice water with kelp over high heat.
Step 2. Simmer the Base
- After 7 minutes of boiling, remove kelp and add soybean paste, red pepper paste, and broth. Lower heat to medium.
Step 3. Add Vegetables in Stages
- When the broth starts to simmer, add zucchini and onion.
- Once zucchini and onion are cooked, add red pepper powder, minced garlic, potatoes (if using), and red pepper.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Finally, add tofu. Adjust seasoning and cooking time to your preference.
Read more: Instant Pot Chinese Beef Brisket Stew (蘿蔔燜牛腩) - Easy Recipe
Tips
- Adding radish helps create a flavorful broth when using only vegetables.
- If you don't have potatoes, use more zucchini.
- Cutting zucchini into pencil-like shapes enhances the chewy texture.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of soybean paste?
While doenjang is traditional, other fermented soybean pastes like miso can be substituted. Keep in mind the flavor will differ slightly; miso tends to be milder.
2. What if I don't have all the vegetables listed in the recipe?
Doenjang jjigae is incredibly adaptable! Use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Onions, garlic, and tofu are always good additions.
3. How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) or a few slices of fresh chili pepper to adjust the spice level to your preference.
This No-Fail Doenjang Jjigae recipe is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients and comforting flavors. Enjoy the satisfying warmth and rich umami of this Korean classic, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend treat. Now go forth and create your own delicious bowl of soybean paste stew!