Savory Soybean Powder and Napa Cabbage Soup
Weekend Morning Delight: Making Savory Soybean Powder Napa Cabbage Soup!
Hello everyone! Today, we’re going to make a comforting and nutritious Soybean Powder Napa Cabbage Soup, a dish so beloved that King Cheoljong of the Joseon Dynasty, who grew up in the mountains, missed it even while living in the palace. Legend has it that the king, originally from Ganghwa Island, found palace cuisine unappetizing and longed for the simple soups he ate in his youth, especially soybean paste soup made with dried radish greens. Though he managed to procure rice wine, the soup was harder to find, requiring him to send for it from his maternal relatives in Ganghwa. This recipe brings together the fresh, slightly sweet flavor of seasonal napa cabbage with the rich, nutty taste of soybean powder, creating a wonderfully wholesome and hearty soup. It’s perfect for a leisurely weekend breakfast, providing a delicious and nourishing start to your day. Let’s make it together!
Ingredients- 4 leaves Napa cabbage
- 2 dried shrimp
- 2 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp raw soybean powder
- 3 cups water
- 1/4 stalk green onion
- Pinch of salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the napa cabbage thoroughly. Cut the stems into about 1cm thick pieces and the leaves into roughly 3-4cm lengths. Finely chop the green onion.
Step 2
In a pot, add 3 cups of water. Dissolve 2 Tbsp of doenjang (Korean soybean paste) and add the 2 dried shrimp. Stir well to ensure the doenjang is fully dissolved without clumps. Bring to a boil over high heat.
Step 3
Once the doenjang-water mixture boils, add the prepared napa cabbage. Keep the heat high for a moment, then reduce to medium-low and simmer until the cabbage stems are tender. This should take about 10 minutes.
Step 4
When the cabbage is tender, gradually add 2 Tbsp of raw soybean powder, stirring continuously to prevent lumps and ensure it mixes smoothly into the soup. This will thicken the soup and give it a rich, nutty flavor. Next, add the chopped green onion and 0.5 Tbsp of minced garlic. Simmer for another short while. Finally, season with a pinch of salt to your taste. Your delicious Soybean Powder Napa Cabbage Soup is ready!
