Authentic Korean Doenjang Guk Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 200 grams beef, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Doenjang (Korean fermented soybean paste)
  • 1 teaspoon Gochugaru (Korean chili powder), optional
  • 1.5 liters of water
  • 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 200 grams of Napa cabbage, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 200 grams of tofu, cut into bite-size cubes
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the beef and garlic to the pot and cook until the beef is browned.
  3. Add the Doenjang and Gochugaru to the pot and stir until the beef is fully coated.
  4. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. When the water is boiling, add the potatoes and onion to the pot. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes.
  6. Add the Napa cabbage, green onions, and tofu to the pot. Cook for an additional 10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
  7. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve the soup hot with rice on the side.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - A pot big enough to hold the soup and accommodate all the ingredients.
  • Cutting board - To chop and prepare the vegetables and tofu.
  • Knife - For slicing the beef, mincing the garlic, and cutting the vegetables.
  • Stirring spoon - To mix the ingredients in the pot.
  • Measuring spoons - For accurately measuring the vegetable oil, Doenjang, Gochugaru, salt, and pepper.

Recipe variations

  • Use different types of protein such as chicken, pork, or seafood instead of beef.
  • Add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for extra flavor and texture.
  • Make it vegetarian/vegan by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth instead of water.
  • Add other Korean ingredients like Kimchi or Korean soybean sprouts.
  • Spice it up by adding more Gochugaru or Korean chili paste (Gochujang) for a spicier flavor.
  • Add cooked noodles such as udon or rice noodles to make it a heartier meal.
  • Experiment with different types of tofu, like silken tofu or smoked tofu, for unique flavors.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped cilantro for added visual appeal.
  • Adjust the consistency by adding more or less water, depending on personal preference.

Recipe overview

Doenjang Guk is a comforting and savory Korean soup made with Doenjang (fermented soybean paste), various vegetables, and often includes beef and tofu. It is a staple dish in Korean cuisine known for its rich umami flavor and health benefits. This soup is typically enjoyed year-round and is often served with a bowl of rice on the side. In this recipe, we will guide you step by step in creating your own Doenjang Guk at home. You will brown the beef with garlic, then simmer it in a broth flavored with Doenjang and a hint of Gochugaru for a slight kick. Then, we will add hearty vegetables such as potatoes, Napa cabbage, and onions, rounded off with soft tofu cubes. The result is a warming, deeply flavorful soup that is both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you're new to Korean cuisine or a seasoned pro, you're sure to enjoy this delicious soup.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can use chicken, pork, or seafood instead of beef in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  2. Is Gochugaru necessary? No, Gochugaru is optional. It adds a bit of spiciness to the soup, but the recipe will still be delicious without it.
  3. Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for each vegetable.
  4. Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan? Yes, you can make a vegetarian or vegan version of Doenjang Guk by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth instead of water.
  5. How long does this soup keep? Can I refrigerate or freeze it? Doenjang Guk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - A large pot is needed to cook the soup and accommodate all the ingredients.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board is necessary for chopping the vegetables and preparing the ingredients.
  • Chef's knife - A chef's knife is essential for slicing the beef and other ingredients.
  • Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are helpful for accurately measuring the Doenjang, Gochugaru, and other seasonings.
  • Wooden spoon - A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pot.
  • Soup ladle - A soup ladle is useful for serving the Doenjang Guk into bowls.
  • Bowl - Bowls are needed for serving the Doenjang Guk.
  • Rice cooker - A rice cooker is optional but can be helpful for preparing rice to serve with the Doenjang Guk.

Origin stories

Doenjang Guk, a staple dish in Korean cuisine, is a delicious soup made from Doenjang, or fermented soybean paste. This dish is deeply ingrained in Korean culture and has a history that dates back to the Joseon Dynasty. The creation of Doenjang Guk is tied to the cultivation of soybeans in Korea, which started around 1,000 BC. The process of fermentation, crucial for the development of the unique taste of the paste, was a significant culinary milestone in the region. It's said that in ancient times, every Korean household would have Jangdokdae, a place for fermenting sauces, including soybean paste. The sight of earthen pots basking in the sun is a quintessential image of a traditional Korean house. The longevity of this dish speaks to its timeless appeal and unique blend of flavors.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.