Savory Napa Cabbage and Tuna Doenjang Guk (Soybean Paste Stew)
How to Make Delicious Napa Cabbage and Tuna Doenjang Guk: An Easy Recipe
Warm up on a chilly day with this deeply savory Napa Cabbage and Tuna Doenjang Guk. Adding a can of tuna to a traditional soybean paste stew made with napa cabbage (or similar greens) enhances the umami and richness, making it incredibly satisfying. This recipe is perfect for a comforting meal. Let’s get cooking!
Main Ingredients- 1 handful blanched Napa cabbage (approx. 100g, thawed)
- 1 can (100g) tuna, drained
- 3 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean soybean paste, approx. 45g)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic (approx. 10g)
- 5 cups Anchovy-Kelp Broth (approx. 1,000ml)
- 1 stalk green onion (approx. 10cm length)
- 2 Korean green chili peppers
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Place the thawed blanched Napa cabbage directly into the pot. It’s okay if it’s not fully thawed; it will soften as the stew simmers.
Step 2
Add the entire can of tuna (100g), after draining the oil. The tuna’s natural umami will make the doenjang guk even more flavorful.
Step 3
Stir in 3 tablespoons of doenjang and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. It’s best to dissolve the doenjang in the broth to prevent clumps and ensure a smooth flavor. You can also pre-dissolve it.
Step 4
Pour in 5 cups of anchovy-kelp broth and give everything a gentle stir to combine. If you don’t have pre-made broth, you can quickly make one by simmering dried anchovies and a piece of kelp in water.
Step 5
Bring the stew to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer gently. The longer this doenjang guk simmers, the softer the napa cabbage will become, and the richer the flavor will be. While it’s delicious right away, it’s even better the next day! If the broth reduces too much, add a little more anchovy-kelp broth as needed.
Step 6
Finally, thinly slice the green onion diagonally and the Korean green chili peppers diagonally. These add a wonderful fresh aroma and a slight kick, elevating the stew’s overall flavor profile. Simmer for just another minute or two until the vegetables soften slightly. Your delicious Napa Cabbage and Tuna Doenjang Guk is ready to enjoy!
