Authentic Korean Jeonbokmyeon: Abalone Noodle Soup Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 abalone (about 150g)
  • 120g of thin wheat noodles
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 1 small onion
  • 1 inch piece of ginger
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
  • 2 cups of water
  • 2 green onions
  • 1 red chili pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds

Steps and instructions

  1. Clean the abalone by scrubbing its shell and then remove its internals. Rinse it thoroughly under cold water.
  2. Slice the abalone thinly and set it aside.
  3. Chop the garlic, onion, ginger, green onions, and red chili pepper.
  4. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water.
  5. Heat the sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic, onion, and ginger, and sauté until fragrant.
  6. Add the sliced abalone to the pan along with the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Stir fry for a couple of minutes until the abalone is cooked.
  7. Pour in the 2 cups of water and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
  8. Add the cooked noodles to the pot and stir well to combine. Season with salt and black pepper.
  9. Garnish the Jeonbokmyeon with the chopped green onions, red chili pepper, and sesame seeds before serving.

Tools for making

  • Cutting board - Used for chopping and slicing ingredients.
  • Knife - Essential for cutting and slicing the abalone, vegetables, and other ingredients.
  • Large pot - Used to boil the water and cook the noodles.
  • Large pan - Used for stir-frying the abalone and sautéing the garlic, onion, and ginger.
  • Strainer - Used to drain the cooked noodles.
  • Spatula - Used for stirring and flipping ingredients in the pan.
  • Bowls - Used for serving the Jeonbokmyeon.

Recipe variations

  • Use different types of noodles such as udon, soba, or even spaghetti.
  • Add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
  • Replace abalone with other seafood options like shrimp, squid, or scallops.
  • For a meat-free option, omit the seafood and add tofu or tempeh.
  • Experiment with different sauces such as teriyaki sauce or spicy chili sauce.
  • Add a fried egg on top for a richer and creamier texture.
  • Include other herbs and spices like cilantro, basil, or chili flakes for additional complexity.
  • Try using gluten-free noodles or substitute with zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
  • For a more substantial dish, serve it with a side of steamed rice or kimchi.
  • Incorporate additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for extra flavor.

Recipe overview

Jeonbokmyeon is a delicious Korean noodle dish that features the unique flavor of abalone. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide on how to make this nutritious and hearty meal. The abalone is cooked with garlic, onion, and ginger, and served with thin wheat noodles in a rich, savory broth. The dish is then garnished with green onions, red chili peppers, and sesame seeds for added color and flavor. It might seem exotic, but it's surprisingly easy to make at home. So, if you're looking for a delightful culinary adventure right in your kitchen, this Jeonbokmyeon recipe is just what you need. Enjoy as a comforting lunch or dinner.

Common questions

  1. Can I use frozen abalone instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen abalone for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it properly before slicing and cooking.
  2. Can I substitute the wheat noodles with other types of noodles? Yes, you can substitute the wheat noodles with any type of thin noodles you prefer, such as soba noodles or udon noodles.
  3. Can I adjust the amount of spice in the dish? Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of red chili pepper according to your taste preferences. You can add more for extra heat or reduce it for a milder flavor.
  4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan? To make this recipe vegetarian, you can omit the abalone and replace it with vegetables such as mushrooms or tofu. For a vegan version, make sure to use vegan-friendly oyster sauce or replace it with soy sauce or tamari.
  5. Can I prepare the Jeonbokmyeon in advance? It is best to serve Jeonbokmyeon immediately after cooking. However, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and cook the dish just before serving to ensure the noodles remain fresh and flavorful.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - For boiling the noodles
  • Large pan - For stir frying the abalone and sauce
  • Knife - For slicing the abalone and chopping the ingredients
  • Cutting board - To use while chopping the ingredients
  • Strainer - For draining the cooked noodles
  • Spatula - To stir fry the abalone and noodles
  • Tongs - To handle the abalone and noodles
  • Bowls - For serving the Jeonbokmyeon
  • Chopsticks - For eating the Jeonbokmyeon

Origin stories

Jeonbokmyeon is a delightful noodle dish that hails from the coastal regions of South Korea, where abalone is abundant. The dish is considered a delicacy due to the use of abalone, a sea snail known for its rich, buttery flavor and high nutritional value. It's often served on special occasions or as a hearty meal in the cold winter months. Interestingly, Jeonbokmyeon is not only celebrated for its luxurious taste but also for its symbolic meanings. In Korean culture, abalone is associated with wealth and prosperity, making Jeonbokmyeon a dish that brings not just a gastronomic pleasure, but also a sense of auspiciousness to those who indulge in it.

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.