Refreshing and Spicy Clam Soft Tofu Stew: The Golden Recipe
The Ultimate Spicy Broth Dish! Clam Soft Tofu Stew Seasoning Secret
When the weather gets chilly or you’re craving a spicy broth, what comes to mind? Soft tofu stew, of course! Today, we’re making a delicious clam and soft tofu stew, featuring the refreshing taste of clams and the silky texture of soft tofu. The combination of a palate-awakening spicy broth, chewy clams, and fluffy soft tofu is magical and will have you finishing a bowl of rice in no time. We’ll share all the secrets to achieving this simple yet deeply flavorful dish!
Main Ingredients- 1/2 stalk of green onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red chili pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 green chili peppers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 zucchini, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 package (350g) soft tofu for stew
- 1 package (180g) clams, purged of sand
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the vegetables for the stew. Thinly slice the green onion and chili peppers diagonally. Slice the zucchini into half-moons and the onion thinly. Even though the clams are pre-purged, rinse them under running water just in case.
Step 2
One of the secrets to a deep flavor is the broth. Add 3 rice bowls of water to a pot along with a broth bag (containing anchovies, kelp, dried shrimp, etc.) and simmer for 5-10 minutes to create a delicious anchovy and kelp broth. If you don’t have a broth bag, you can directly boil anchovies, dried shrimp, and kelp.
Step 3
Preparing the broth in advance makes cooking stews and soups much easier and adds a richer flavor.
Step 4
Have your thinly sliced onion, diagonally sliced green onion, red and green chili peppers, and half-moon sliced zucchini ready. The colorful vegetables will make the stew look even more appetizing.
Step 5
Now, let’s make the seasoning paste that will define the stew’s savory taste. In a bowl, combine 2 Tbsp chili oil, 1 Tbsp minced garlic, 2 Tbsp red pepper flakes, and 1 Tbsp soup soy sauce.
Step 6
Mix the seasoning ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Having the seasoning paste ready beforehand makes the cooking process much smoother.
Step 7
Heat 1 Tbsp of cooking oil (or an additional 1 Tbsp of chili oil) in a ttukbaegi (earthenware pot) or a regular pot. Add the thinly sliced onion and sauté over medium-low heat until translucent. This brings out the sweetness of the onion.
Step 8
Once the onion starts to become translucent, pour in 2 rice bowls of the prepared anchovy and kelp broth. Letting the broth come to a boil will enhance its deep flavor.
Step 9
When the broth is bubbling, add the prepared zucchini and clams. The clams will add a fresh seafood aroma.
Step 10
As the clams begin to open their shells, it’s time to elevate the stew’s flavor.
Step 11
Add the pre-made seasoning paste to the ttukbaegi (or pot). Stir it well to mix with the broth.
Step 12
Once the seasoning paste is well dissolved and the stew starts to boil again, carefully add the soft tofu by spoonfuls, being careful not to break it up too much. Let it simmer for a bit longer.
Step 13
When the soft tofu starts to boil, season with salt to taste. You can also add a little salted shrimp for extra umami, if you like.
Step 14
Finally, add all the diagonally sliced green onions, red chili peppers, and green chili peppers. Simmer for another moment. The colorful additions and fresh aroma enhance the dish’s overall appeal.
Step 15
If you like, crack an egg into the stew. This adds a creamy texture and richness, making it even more delicious. Be careful not to overcook it after adding the egg.
Step 16
Your refreshing and spicy clam soft tofu stew is ready! Enjoy it with a hot bowl of rice. You won’t forget this taste!
