Rich & Savory Cheonggukjang Stew: The Ultimate Korean Comfort Food
Warm up your winter with a hearty and flavorful Cheonggukjang stew.
Learn how to make a delicious and healthy Cheonggukjang stew that’s packed with flavor and good for you. This recipe is perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients- 700ml Broth (anchovy-kelp or vegetable)
- 3 Tbsp Cheonggukjang (fermented soybean paste)
- 1 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 tsp Minced garlic
- 1 handful Kimchi (well-fermented)
- A little Green onion
- 1/2 block Tofu
- A little Chili pepper (optional)
- 1/2 Onion
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Let’s make a delicious Cheonggukjang stew! Modern Cheonggukjang has a milder aroma and a wonderfully savory flavor, making it enjoyable for everyone.
Step 2
Cheonggukjang itself provides a deep, rich flavor, so you don’t need complex seasonings. Start by adding 700ml of broth (anchovy-kelp or vegetable is recommended) to a pot. Then, add 3 tablespoons of Cheonggukjang. It’s best to add Cheonggukjang towards the end of cooking to preserve its nutrients and delicate flavor.
Step 3
Now, let’s add the ingredients that will give the stew its characteristic spicy kick and depth. Stir in 1 tablespoon of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic. Add half an onion, thinly sliced, which will add a touch of sweetness and refreshing flavor to the broth. Whisk everything together to combine.
Step 4
To enhance the umami and complexity of the stew, it’s time to add kimchi! Toss in a handful (about 1/2 cup) of well-fermented kimchi. The kimchi adds a delightful spicy tang and deepens the overall flavor profile, making it even more delicious. If you don’t have regular kimchi, well-fermented sour kimchi works wonderfully too.
Step 5
Finally, we’ll add tofu for a creamy texture and green onions for a fresh aroma. Dice half a block of tofu into bite-sized cubes and add it to the pot. Chop some green onions and sprinkle them in. Cheonggukjang and tofu are a match made in heaven! For an extra spicy kick, you can thinly slice a chili pepper (green or red) and add it.
Step 6
Now, bring the pot with all the ingredients to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Be careful not to overcook, as this can diminish the savory nuances of the Cheonggukjang.
Step 7
And there you have it! A wonderfully savory and delicious Cheonggukjang stew is ready. It’s absolutely divine spooned over a bowl of hot rice. Enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal with this steaming bowl of Cheonggukjang!
