Hearty Clam Doenjang Jjigae: A Rich and Savory Korean Stew
Savor the Deep Flavors of the Sea with This Comforting Clam Doenjang Jjigae
This hearty doenjang jjigae (Korean soybean paste stew) is packed with plump, succulent clams, offering a delightful chewiness and a burst of oceanic flavor. The rich soybean paste broth is deeply savory and comforting, perfect for any weather, especially when it’s cool. This stew is so satisfying, it can be the star of your meal, requiring no other side dishes to complete a delicious and fulfilling dining experience.
Main Ingredients
- 200g clams, purged of sand
- 1/2 potato (small)
- 1/4 Korean zucchini (Hobak)
- 1 dried shiitake mushroom
Seasoning & Broth
- 1.5 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 1 tsp Cheongyang chili powder (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 piece dried kelp (Kombu), approx. 10x10cm
- 4 cups water (800ml)
- 1 Tbsp natural seasoning (e.g., fish sauce, salted shrimp)
- 1.5 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 1 tsp Cheongyang chili powder (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 piece dried kelp (Kombu), approx. 10x10cm
- 4 cups water (800ml)
- 1 Tbsp natural seasoning (e.g., fish sauce, salted shrimp)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
In a pot, bring 4 cups (800ml) of water to a boil with the piece of dried kelp. Once boiling, remove the kelp. Dissolve 1.5 Tbsp of doenjang through a sieve into the water. Add the diced potato, zucchini, and rehydrated shiitake mushroom. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once the broth begins to boil, add the purged clams. Cook the clams briefly; they become tough if overcooked, so add them towards the end.
Step 2
As the clams open and cook through, season the stew with 1 tsp of Cheongyang chili powder and 1 Tbsp of natural seasoning. Adjust the seasoning to your preference. The freshness and plumpness of the clams significantly enhance the stew’s depth of flavor. Their satisfying texture is truly delightful.
Step 3
Your clam doenjang jjigae, featuring the umami from the kelp broth, the briny essence of the clams, and the rich, savory doenjang, is now ready. Served piping hot with a bowl of rice, it’s a complete and incredibly satisfying meal that needs no other accompaniments.
Step 4
Clam doenjang jjigae is a beloved Korean comfort food that can be enjoyed year-round. This single stew provides a hearty and satisfying meal, proving it’s a true ‘rice thief’ – you’ll find yourself wanting more rice to pair with its deliciousness!
