Clear and Refreshing Soft Tofu Stew (Sundubu Jjigae)
Super Simple Recipe for Clear Broth Soft Tofu Stew
While spicy soft tofu stew is delicious, sometimes a mild, clear broth version is just what you crave. Let’s make a super easy, clean-tasting soft tofu stew. Perfect for when you want a comforting bowl of soup without the heat!
Main Ingredients- 1 packet soft tofu (approx. 300-350g)
- 2 concentrated broth cubes (or 200ml pre-made broth)
- 500ml water
- 1/4 onion
- 10cm piece of green onion (scallion)
- 1 Korean chili pepper (optional, adjust for spice)
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1/2 Tbsp salted shrimp (for broth seasoning)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Let’s prepare the vegetables that will add flavor to our clear soft tofu stew. First, peel the onion and slice it thinly into strips. This method helps the subtle sweetness of the onion dissolve beautifully into the broth.
Step 2
Wash and thinly slice the green onion. We’ll add this at the end, so having it pre-sliced makes things convenient.
Step 3
If you’d like a slight kick, prepare a Korean chili pepper. Remove the stem and slice it diagonally. If you prefer less spice, you can omit it or substitute with a regular green chili.
Step 4
Carefully open the packet of soft tofu and cut it into manageable pieces (e.g., divide into 2-3 sections) suitable for adding to the pot. Be careful not to cut it too small, as it might break apart too much while cooking.
Step 5
Measure out the minced garlic and have it ready. Using freshly minced garlic will enhance the flavor significantly.
Step 6
Now, let’s make the base broth for the stew. Pour 500ml of water into a pot and add the 2 concentrated broth cubes. If you don’t have broth cubes, about 200ml of store-bought anchovy-kelp broth is a good alternative. Once the water starts boiling, stir to dissolve the broth cubes.
Step 7
When the broth comes to a boil, add the salted shrimp to season the soup. Salted shrimp adds umami and helps balance the flavor. Start with 1/2 Tbsp and taste; add a little more if needed. You can also use soy sauce for seasoning instead of salted shrimp.
Step 8
To the seasoned broth, add the thinly sliced onion and the minced garlic. Let it simmer together for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. This allows the onion’s natural sweetness to infuse the broth, making it more refreshing.
Step 9
Once the onion is cooked, add all the soft tofu you prepared. It’s best to gently break the tofu into large chunks with a spoon as you add it to the pot, making it visually appealing and easier to eat. After adding the tofu, avoid stirring too vigorously and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 10
Finally, add the sliced green onion and the diagonally sliced Korean chili pepper. Let it simmer for just a moment longer. The green onion and chili add color and a fresh aroma. Don’t overcook them; a brief simmer will keep their crispness. Cook for about 1 more minute to finish.
Step 11
For an extra touch of flavor, you can sprinkle a little black pepper. You’ve now made a wonderfully refreshing and clean-tasting soft tofu stew – it’s truly that simple! Enjoy it with a warm bowl of rice!
