Cabbage Doenjang Jjigae (Savory & Hydrating Stew)
A Diet-Friendly Cabbage Doenjang Jjigae: A No-Water, Flavorful Stew with Cooked Cabbage & Tofu
This recipe creates a rich Doenjang Jjigae (Korean soybean paste stew) without adding a single drop of water! All the liquid comes from the vegetables themselves, creating an unparalleled savory depth. Its thick, potent flavor makes it perfect for mixing with rice like a hearty ‘Gangdoenjang’ (thick soybean paste sauce) or for wrapping with fresh greens. Enjoy a healthy and delicious meal with ease!
Main Ingredients- 1/4 head of cabbage (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 block of firm tofu (cubed)
- 100g ground beef
- 1/4 onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 zucchini (sliced into half-moons)
Seasoning- 3 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 1 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 3 Tbsp cooking oil
- 3 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 1 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 3 Tbsp cooking oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the seasoning paste that will give our stew its wonderful flavor. In a bowl, combine 3 Tbsp of Doenjang, 1 Tbsp of Gochujang, 1 Tbsp of minced garlic, and 1 Tbsp of Gochugaru. Mix them well. You can adjust the seasoning ratios to your preference.
Step 2
Now, heat 3 Tbsp of cooking oil in a ttukbaegi (Korean earthenware pot) or a regular pot over medium-low heat. Add the prepared cabbage and sauté it gently until it starts to become slightly translucent. Then, add the ground beef and the prepared seasoning paste. Stir and break up the meat as it cooks for about 3-4 minutes until the beef is well-browned. This step really enhances the flavors of the ingredients.
Step 3
As the cabbage begins to release its natural sweet juices, you’ll notice the mixture becoming slightly moist and saucy (this is the ‘no-water’ magic happening!). Now, add the cubed tofu and the sliced zucchini and other prepared vegetables. Gently stir everything together just until the ingredients are combined and lightly coated. The natural moisture from the vegetables will create a delicious broth. Let it simmer for a bit for all the flavors to meld together, and your flavorful Cabbage Doenjang Jjigae is ready to be enjoyed!
