Nostalgic Bean Sprout Soup: A Refreshing and Light Broth
Refreshing and Light Bean Sprout Soup
During college breaks, staying at my parents’ home in Busan always felt like a healing and recharging time. Especially, the memory of ‘Kongnamul Haejangguk’ (bean sprout hangover soup) we’d enjoy after early morning worship at a local restaurant is still vivid and brings a smile to my face. On this chilly day, I decided to recreate that beloved taste by making a hot, refreshing, and light bean sprout soup. Warm your soul with this comforting broth!
Ingredients
- Bean sprouts 450g (about 1 lb)
- Anchovy broth 1L (approx. 4 cups)
- Salt 1 tsp
- Salted fermented shrimp (Saeujeot) to taste
- Sliced garlic 1 Tbsp
- Green onions 2 stalks
- Egg 1
- Red pepper flakes a pinch
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, thoroughly rinse about 450g (1 lb) of bean sprouts under running water until clean. Rinsing them well is key to avoiding any unpleasant raw smell.
Step 2
Bring 1L (approx. 4 cups) of rich anchovy broth to a rolling boil in a deep pot over high heat. Using a flavorful anchovy broth will significantly enhance the soup’s taste.
Step 3
Add the cleaned bean sprouts to the boiling anchovy broth.
Step 4
Crucially, do not cover the pot while the bean sprouts are cooking; keep the lid ajar to allow any raw smell to escape. Let them boil for a short while until slightly tender, then add 1 tsp of salt.
Step 5
Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salted fermented shrimp (Saeujeot) if needed. Saeujeot adds a wonderful umami depth to the soup.
Step 6
Add 1 Tbsp of sliced garlic to the pot. The gentle garlic aroma will infuse the broth, adding a layer of refreshing flavor.
Step 7
Once the soup comes back to a boil, add the 2 stalks of thinly sliced green onions and immediately turn off the heat. The fresh scent of green onions complements the broth beautifully.
Step 8
Ladle the bean sprouts into a serving bowl first. Then, carefully pour the hot broth over them.
Step 9
For an extra touch of richness, crack a raw egg directly into the hot soup. The egg will gently cook in the heat, adding a silky texture.
Step 10
This clear and refreshing bean sprout soup is delicious on its own. It’s incredibly comforting and great for a light meal or a hangover cure.
Step 11
If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes on top for a more invigorating version of bean sprout soup! Both ways are wonderfully satisfying.
