Crisp Spinach Doenjang Guk: A Nutritious Soup Loved by All, from Babies to Adults
Spinach Doenjang Guk Recipe: Excellent for Baby’s Constipation, Rich in Dietary Fiber
Today, I’ll share a detailed recipe for delicious Spinach Doenjang Guk, which is rich in dietary fiber and can help with bowel movements for children aged 30 months. This doenjang guk is perfect as a side dish for baby food and completes a savory and healthy meal.
Ingredients- 1/2 bunch spinach (cleaned and trimmed)
- 1/2 onion (finely diced)
- 1 stalk green onion (chopped)
- 1/4 Korean zucchini (finely diced)
- 2 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 2 anchovy broth cubes (or 4 cups kelp and anchovy broth)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
To make a savory doenjang guk that’s great for babies and toddlers, we’ll start by preparing rice water. When washing rice, discard the first water and save the second. Before preparing the ingredients, let’s start boiling the broth. For a quick and easy baby side dish, use 2 anchovy broth cubes. Fill a medium-sized pot about 2/3 full with water and bring it to a boil. (Using rice water or broth instead of plain water will add a much deeper flavor.)
Step 2
It’s important to cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces that are easy for babies to eat. For a two-year-old, I cut them into very small dice so they don’t get stuck in their mouths. When cut smaller than for regular side dishes, babies tend to slurp them up more easily because of the soft texture in the soup. (Success in feeding them a veggie boost!)
Step 3
Winter spinach has a natural sweetness, even in the stems, making it delicious. However, since this is a meal for children, neatly trim off any dirty parts of the stems and wash them thoroughly several times. Cut the spinach stems into manageable pieces, about 5cm long, and set aside. Add the prepared spinach all at once to the boiling broth.
Step 4
Add the Korean zucchini and onion to the prepared broth next. Boil vigorously over medium heat until the zucchini and onion are tender and slightly softened. Ensure the vegetables are fully cooked for easier eating and a richer soup flavor.
Step 5
Add 2 tablespoons of doenjang to season the soup. Adjust the amount based on the saltiness of your doenjang. I found the doenjang to be salty enough, so I didn’t add any other seasonings. Simmer for a bit longer until a savory doenjang aroma rises. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface while simmering for a clearer broth.
Step 6
Finally, add the chopped green onions and simmer briefly to finish. The aromatic green onions will infuse the soup with a wonderful fragrance.
Step 7
And there you have it! A warm, nourishing soup that can be enjoyed by babies from one year old and up, and a nutritious side dish: Spinach Doenjang Guk. Children who love doenjang guk often drink the broth first, even before the meat dishes. This dish, known for being good for constipation due to its high fiber content, was made to help my 30-month-old daughter with her bowel movements. Made with winter spinach, its sweet and savory flavor is exceptional, making it a wonderful dinner menu that was loved by both children and adults.
