Savory Spinach and Soybean Paste Porridge
How to Make Delicious Spinach Soybean Paste Porridge
Here’s a recipe for a comforting and flavorful porridge made with nutritious spinach and savory doenjang (Korean soybean paste). It’s a simple yet deeply satisfying dish.
Ingredients- 3 Tbsp minced pork
- 1 Tbsp cooking oil
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- A pinch of minced garlic
- 2 handfuls of fresh spinach (approx. 200g)
- 4 bowls of water (approx. 800ml)
- 2 Tbsp doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 1 bowl of cooked rice or leftover rice (approx. 200g)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s gather the ingredients for our delicious spinach and doenjang porridge. You’ll need 3 tablespoons of minced pork, 1 tablespoon of cooking oil, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, a pinch of minced garlic, two handfuls of freshly washed spinach, 4 bowls of water, 2 tablespoons of flavorful doenjang, and 1 bowl of cooked rice. Using leftover rice (chapbap) works wonderfully as it breaks down easily into a porridge consistency.
Step 2
Carefully wash the fresh spinach under running water multiple times to ensure all dirt and grit are removed. It’s important to clean the roots thoroughly for a pure and clean taste. After washing, gently shake off any excess water.
Step 3
In a deep pot, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced pork and sauté until it’s cooked through and slightly crispy, releasing its flavorful oils. Sautéing the pork well helps to eliminate any raw smell and enhances its taste. You can add a pinch of minced garlic during this stage to infuse its aroma.
Step 4
Once the pork is nicely browned, add 2 tablespoons of doenjang to the pot and stir it with the pork for a minute. Lightly toasting the doenjang like this deepens its savory and nutty flavor. Next, pour in 1 bowl of rice and 4 bowls of water. Stir well to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes, or until the rice has broken down and the porridge has thickened. Continuous simmering is key for a smooth texture.
Step 5
When the rice has softened and the porridge has reached your desired thickness, add the roughly chopped spinach. (Optional: For an even richer and more complex flavor, you can finely dice some potato or onion and add them at this stage. However, the porridge is wonderfully delicious with just spinach, so feel free to customize it to your liking.)
Step 6
Even though you add a generous amount of spinach, it will wilt down significantly as it cooks. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is tender. You want the spinach to retain its vibrant green color while becoming soft and succulent.
Step 7
Your comforting spinach and doenjang porridge is now ready! The harmonious blend of savory doenjang and fresh spinach creates a dish that is both hearty and soothing for the stomach. Enjoy a nourishing and satisfying meal.
Step 8
Delicious and hearty spinach and doenjang porridge is complete! It’s best enjoyed hot.
