Clear and Refreshing Bean Sprout Soup with Salted Shrimp
A Delicious Bean Sprout Soup Recipe Enhanced with Salted Shrimp Flavor
This clear bean sprout soup is incredibly delicious, with the addition of salted shrimp adding a profound depth of flavor. We’re revealing our family’s secret recipe for the perfect bean sprout soup. Enjoy the rich taste that goes beyond a simple broth!
Ingredients- 300g fresh bean sprouts
- 1 Tbsp salted shrimp (saeujeot)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- Pinch of salt (for final seasoning)
- Generous amount of green onion (about 1/2 stalk)
- 1 green chili pepper (for a spicy kick)
- 1 red chili pepper (for color)
- 2 cubes of concentrated vegetable broth (or anchovy-kelp broth)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Let’s introduce our delicious clear bean sprout soup! This soup is made exceptionally flavorful by adding salted shrimp, which provides a deep umami taste without needing other complex broths. It’s perfect for a light meal or as a hangover cure.
Step 2
First, rinse the bean sprouts thoroughly under running water 2-3 times to remove any dirt and unpleasant odors. Gently rub them while rinsing to avoid bruising. After washing, drain them well in a colander. This step is crucial for a clean taste.
Step 3
In a pot, add 500ml of water and 2 cubes of concentrated vegetable broth. Bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. If you don’t have concentrated broth cubes, you can use a pre-made anchovy and kelp broth.
Step 4
Once the broth is boiling, add 1 tablespoon of salted shrimp and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Stir well to combine these flavor enhancers into the broth. The salted shrimp adds a savory depth, while the minced garlic helps to eliminate any raw smell from the bean sprouts and adds aroma.
Step 5
As the broth starts to bubble again after adding the salted shrimp and garlic, you can optionally skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface using a fine-mesh sieve. This will result in an even clearer and cleaner-tasting soup.
Step 6
Now, add the well-drained bean sprouts to the pot. Important tip: do not cover the pot! Leave the lid off. This helps the bean sprouts cook evenly and maintain their crisp texture. Let them simmer in the broth for about 3-5 minutes. Overcooking will make the bean sprouts mushy.
Step 7
When the bean sprouts are almost cooked, add a generous amount of chopped green onions. The fresh aroma of the green onions will infuse into the soup, enhancing its overall deliciousness.
Step 8
Finally, add the sliced red chili pepper for color and the green chili pepper if you prefer a bit of heat. Taste the soup. Since salted shrimp is already salty, you might only need a tiny bit of soy sauce or salt to adjust the seasoning perfectly. Be sure to taste before adding more.
Step 9
And there you have it! A wonderfully clear, refreshing, and deeply flavorful bean sprout soup with salted shrimp is ready. Serve it hot with a bowl of rice for a truly satisfying and comforting meal. Enjoy your cooking!
