Rich & Refreshing Snow Crab Doenjang Jjigae (Korean Soybean Paste Stew)
Snow Crab Doenjang Jjigae
This Snow Crab Doenjang Jjigae is a deeply flavorful and refreshing stew, harmoniously blending the savory essence of snow crab with the rich umami of fermented soybean paste. Packed with nutritious vegetables like zucchini, radish, and tofu, it’s a hearty and satisfying dish that pairs perfectly with rice. Make this simple yet exceptional stew at home for a taste of Korean comfort!
Main Ingredients- 10 snow crabs, cleaned and cut (body length 7-8cm)
- 200g radish (about 1/4 small radish)
- 1/2 zucchini
- 1/2 onion
- 1/2 block firm tofu
- 2 Korean green chili peppers (Cheongyang peppers)
- 9 cups water (1.8L)
Seasoning Ingredients- 4 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean fermented soybean paste)
- 1 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 Tbsp Cheongju (rice wine) or Mirin
- A pinch of black pepper
- 4 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean fermented soybean paste)
- 1 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 Tbsp Cheongju (rice wine) or Mirin
- A pinch of black pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Let’s start by making the seasoning paste that will give the stew its deep flavor. In a bowl, combine 4 Tbsp Doenjang, 1 Tbsp Gochujang, 1 Tbsp Cheongju (or Mirin), and a pinch of black pepper. Stir well with a spoon until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed. This seasoned paste will elevate the umami of the stew.
Step 2
Next, let’s prepare the vegetables. Slice the radish into thin, half-moon shapes about 0.5cm thick. Cut the tofu into 2cm cubes, and thinly slice the onion. Halve the zucchini lengthwise and then slice it into 0.7cm thick pieces. Finely chop the Korean green chili peppers. Preparing the ingredients in these bite-sized, uniform pieces will ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture.
Step 3
Now, let’s clean the star ingredient: the snow crabs. Using a brush or toothbrush, scrub the crabs thoroughly, paying attention to the crevices and legs, then rinse them under cold running water. If using frozen crabs, thaw them first and then rinse them carefully. Properly cleaned crabs will yield a richer, more delicious stew.
Step 4
In a pot, add 9 cups (1.8L) of water and the sliced radish. Bring it to a rolling boil over high heat and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the radish turns translucent and tender. The radish will release its refreshing flavor, forming the base of our delicious broth.
Step 5
Once the radish is cooked, reduce the heat to medium-low. Gently stir in the prepared Doenjang seasoning paste into the pot. It’s important to dissolve the paste smoothly into the broth, ensuring there are no lumps.
Step 6
It’s time to add the ingredients that will build the stew’s complex flavors! Add the sliced onion, zucchini, and the cleaned snow crabs to the broth. Arrange the crabs attractively on top of the vegetables for a visually appealing dish.
Step 7
To achieve a clear and refined broth, skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface during cooking using a spoon. This step helps to enhance the natural sweetness and freshness of the snow crab.
Step 8
When the zucchini becomes slightly translucent and the crabs turn a vibrant red, indicating they are cooking nicely, the stew is nearing completion. Most of the other ingredients should be tender by this point.
Step 9
Finally, add the soft tofu cubes and the chopped Korean green chilies for a touch of heat. Stir gently to avoid breaking the tofu. Let the stew simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Your delicious Snow Crab Doenjang Jjigae is now ready!
Step 10
Voila! Your appetizing Snow Crab Doenjang Jjigae is complete. Enjoy this deeply flavorful and refreshing stew with a warm bowl of rice. The comforting taste you can create at home is truly the best!
