Flavorful Dried Shrimp Spinach Soup (Gunchaewoo Sigeumchi Guk)
Savory Spinach Soup with Dried Shrimp
As the weather turns chilly, a warm bowl of soup becomes incredibly comforting. This recipe for spinach soup with dried shrimp is easy and quick to make, without the need for a separate broth. The deep umami from the dried shrimp and the freshness of the spinach create a delightful combination, perfect for enjoying with a bowl of rice.
Main Ingredients- 1 bunch fresh spinach (trim roots and wash thoroughly)
- 1/2 cup dried shrimp (high quality)
- 2 Tbsp chopped green onion
- 1 liter water
Seasoning- 1.5 Tbsp homemade doenjang (soybean paste)
- 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1.5 Tbsp homemade doenjang (soybean paste)
- 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
*Carefully trim the root ends off the spinach and wash it several times by gently swishing it in water until all soil is removed. *Rinse the dried shrimp as well, just in case there are any impurities.
Step 2
Place the dried shrimp in a clean pot over low heat (without turning on the stove yet). Gently stir-fry the shrimp in the dry pot for about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn them. This step helps to enhance the shrimp’s flavor.
Step 3
Pour 1 liter of water into the pot with the stir-fried dried shrimp. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors of the dried shrimp to infuse into the water.
Step 4
Once the broth has simmered, dissolve 1.5 tablespoons of doenjang into the pot. You can use a sieve to ensure it dissolves smoothly without lumps. Add the 2 tablespoons of chopped green onion. Bring the soup back to a rolling boil.
Step 5
When the soup is boiling again, add the thoroughly washed spinach. Spinach cooks quickly; avoid overcooking to maintain its vibrant color and tender texture. Simmer for just about 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
Step 6
Finally, add 0.5 tablespoon of minced garlic and let it simmer briefly. It’s best not to boil the soup for too long after adding the garlic. Simmer gently to allow the garlic aroma to meld into the soup.
Step 7
Your delicious Dried Shrimp Spinach Soup is ready! Ladle it into bowls and enjoy this comforting dish. It makes for a hearty and satisfying meal, especially when paired with rice.
