Homemade Kalguksu: Traditional Korean Knife-Cut Noodle Soup Recipe

Ingredients

  • 400g of fresh kalguksu noodles
  • 150g of beef brisket
  • 1/2 of a medium zucchini
  • 1 medium potato
  • 1/2 of a Korean radish
  • 1/2 of an onion
  • 4 cloves of garlic
  • 1 green onion
  • 2 dried shiitake mushrooms
  • 2 small dried anchovies
  • 1 piece of dried kelp (about 5cm x 5cm)
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
  • 2 liters of water

Steps and instructions

  1. Soak the dried shiitake mushrooms in water until they become soft, then slice thinly. Set the water aside.
  2. In a large pot, add beef brisket, dried anchovies, dried kelp, and 2 liters of water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
  4. Remove the kelp, anchovies, and beef from the pot. Let the beef cool, then slice it thinly.
  5. To the same pot, add the sliced shiitake mushrooms, Korean radish, potato, zucchini, onion, garlic, and the water used for soaking the mushrooms. Bring to a boil again.
  6. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and let it simmer for another 20 minutes.
  7. Separately, bring a large pot of water to boil for the noodles. Once boiling, add the kalguksu noodles and cook according to the package instructions.
  8. While the noodles are cooking, add the salt, black pepper, and sesame oil to the soup pot and stir well.
  9. When the noodles are done, drain them and divide among serving bowls.
  10. Pour the soup into each bowl, then garnish with the sliced beef and chopped green onions.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - for boiling the soup and noodles
  • Knife - for slicing the beef, vegetables, and mushrooms
  • Cutting board - to provide a surface for chopping and slicing ingredients
  • Potato peeler - for peeling the skin off the potato and Korean radish
  • Large spoon - for stirring the soup and serving
  • Strainer - to drain the kalguksu noodles
  • Bowls - for serving the kalguksu soup

Recipe variations

  • Vegetarian option: Replace beef brisket with tofu or mushrooms for a meat-free version.
  • Seafood version: Add seafood such as shrimp, clams, or mussels to the soup for a flavorful twist.
  • Spicy Kalguksu: Add gochujang (Korean red chili paste) or gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes) to the soup for a spicy kick.
  • Chicken Kalguksu: Substitute beef brisket with chicken breast or thigh meat.
  • Kimchi Kalguksu: Incorporate kimchi into the soup for a tangy and spicy flavor.
  • Green vegetable kalguksu: Add spinach or other leafy greens to the soup for added nutrition.
  • Extra toppings: Customize your kalguksu with additional toppings such as boiled egg, sliced mushrooms, or bean sprouts.
  • Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free noodles made from rice or sweet potato starch.

Recipe overview

Kalguksu is a traditional Korean noodle soup, literally translated as "knife noodles," named so because the noodles are not extruded or spun, but cut. This hearty dish is rich in flavor, made with a variety of fresh ingredients like zucchini, potato, and Korean radish, and accented with beef brisket. The true charm of this dish lies in its homemade noodles and comforting, warm broth, perfect for any season. With this recipe, you can bring a taste of Korea into your kitchen. Enjoy the process of crafting the broth with different vegetables and seasonings, preparing the fresh noodles, and assembling the final dish. Let's dive into the delicious journey to making Kalguksu at home. Expect a delightful and satisfying meal that's well worth the effort.

Common questions

  1. Can I use dried kalguksu noodles instead of fresh?
    Yes, you can use dried kalguksu noodles. Follow the instructions on the package for cooking time.
  2. Can I substitute beef brisket with another type of meat?
    Yes, you can substitute beef brisket with chicken breast, pork loin, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
  3. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
    Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, spinach, or cabbage to customize the soup to your liking.
  4. Is it necessary to soak the dried mushrooms?
    Yes, soaking the dried mushrooms helps rehydrate them and enhances their flavor. It is an important step in the recipe.
  5. Can I make the soup broth in advance?
    Yes, you can make the soup broth in advance and refrigerate it. Just reheat the broth before serving and continue with the remaining steps of the recipe.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - for boiling the soup and cooking the noodles
  • Strainer - to strain the soup and noodles
  • Knife - for slicing the beef, vegetables, and mushrooms
  • Cutting board - to chop and prepare ingredients
  • Soup ladle - for serving the soup
  • Tongs - to handle the hot noodles
  • Bowls - for serving the kalguksu
  • Chopsticks - for eating the noodles
  • Serving spoon - for garnishing the bowls with beef and green onions

Origin stories

Kalguksu is a cherished dish in the heart of Korean cuisine, its name literally meaning "knife noodles," a tribute to the traditional method of cutting the dough with a knife to create the fresh, thick, and soft noodles that are characteristic of this dish. The beauty of Kalguksu lies in its simplicity and adaptability, reflecting the resourcefulness and resilience of Korean culinary tradition. It is a dish often enjoyed in the summer, but its warm, comforting broth makes it a versatile choice for any season. It is also associated with special occasions and celebrations, as it is customary in Korea to serve noodles on birthdays and weddings to symbolize long life and good health. This humble noodle soup, with its rich history and cultural significance, is a testament to the rich tapestry of Korean food culture.

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.