Authentic Korean Gomtang (Beef Bone Soup) Recipe

Ingredients

1 kg Beef Brisket
1 kg Beef Bones
2 Large Onions
1 Whole Garlic
4 Green Onions
2 kg Radish
2 tsp Salt
2 tsp Black Pepper

Steps and instructions

Start by rinsing the beef brisket and bones under cold water to remove any blood or debris.
Place the bones and brisket in a large pot, cover with water and bring to a boil.
Once boiling, discard the water and rinse the bones and brisket again to remove any impurities.
Place the rinsed bones and brisket back into the pot and cover with fresh water.
Peel and cut the radish into large chunks and add to the pot.
Add whole peeled onions and garlic to the pot.
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Let it cook for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
After the soup has simmered, strain the broth to remove the bones, beef, and vegetables.
Season the broth with salt and pepper to taste.
Chop the green onions and sprinkle them on top of the soup just before serving.

Tools for making

Large Pot - A pot large enough to hold all the ingredients and allow for simmering.
Strainer - A strainer or sieve to separate the broth from the bones and vegetables.
Knife - A sharp knife for cutting the radish, onions, and green onions.
Cutting Board - A cutting board to safely chop the vegetables.
Measuring Spoons - Measuring spoons for accurately measuring the salt and pepper.
Soup Ladle - A ladle for serving the gomtang.

Recipe variations

Add noodles such as udon or rice noodles to make it a heartier dish.
Use chicken bones or a combination of beef and chicken bones for a different flavor profile.
Add vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or spinach to enhance the nutritional value.
For a spicier version, add chili flakes or gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the broth.
Experiment with different seasonings like soy sauce, sesame oil, or ginger for added depth of flavor.
Try using different cuts of beef such as short ribs or shank for a richer broth.
Make it vegetarian by substituting the beef and bones with vegetable broth or mushroom broth, and adding tofu or tempeh for protein.
For a gluten-free option, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
Include other herbs and spices like bay leaves, star anise, or ginger to infuse different aromas into the soup.

Recipe overview

Gomtang is a traditional Korean soup, loved for its rich and hearty flavor. The dish is made by simmering beef brisket and bones for an extended period of time, often overnight. This slow cooking process allows the soup to develop a deep flavor and a milky broth, which is both nutritious and delicious. The addition of radish, onion, and garlic further enhances the soup's taste, while chopped green onions provide a refreshing contrast. This soup is usually served with a side of rice and kimchi for a complete meal. Get ready to experience a warming and comforting dish that is perfect for any time of the year.

Common questions

What is Gomtang? Gomtang is a traditional Korean soup made with beef broth.
Can I use a different cut of beef? While beef brisket is commonly used, you can use other cuts like shank or chuck as well.
Can I make Gomtang without beef bones? Beef bones add depth of flavor to the broth, but if you don't have them, you can still make a delicious Gomtang using just the beef brisket.
How long should I simmer the soup? It is recommended to simmer the soup for at least 6 hours, but you can cook it longer for even more flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to the Gomtang? While the traditional recipe calls for radish, onions, and garlic, you can experiment with adding other vegetables like carrots or mushrooms if desired.
Can I make Gomtang in a pressure cooker? Yes, you can use a pressure cooker to make Gomtang. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cooking times and adjust accordingly.
Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the Gomtang broth for later use. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large Pot - A large pot is needed to cook the beef and make the soup.
Strainer - A strainer is essential for removing the bones, beef, and vegetables from the broth.
Chopping Board - A chopping board is needed to cut the onions, garlic, and radish.
Knife - A knife is necessary for cutting the vegetables and beef.
Soup Ladle - A soup ladle is helpful for serving the gomtang into bowls.
Bowls - Bowls are required for serving the gomtang soup.
Spoons - Spoons are needed for eating the gomtang soup.

Origin stories

Gomtang is a traditional Korean dish, deeply embedded in the country's cultural and culinary history. It is believed that in the bygone eras, during harsh winters, Koreans developed a taste for bone soups to fend off the cold and satiate their hunger. Gomtang, a rich bone soup, was born out of this necessity. The name 'Gomtang' itself translates to 'bear soup', though there's no bear meat involved in the dish. This quirky misnomer is due to the dish's hearty and robust nature, as it was often believed to provide strength equivalent to a bear. The preparation process, simmering bones and meat for long hours, extracts the nutrients and flavors, creating a comforting, nourishing broth. These hearty soups have been an integral part of Korean cuisine, with each region having its unique variation and Gomtang being one of the most revered.

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.