Spicy and Refreshing Clam Noodle Soup (Bajirak Kalguksu) Recipe

The Ultimate Clam Noodle Soup: Rich Flavor Guaranteed!

Spicy and Refreshing Clam Noodle Soup (Bajirak Kalguksu) Recipe

Warm your soul with the king of savory, deeply flavorful dishes: Bajirak Kalguksu! This delightful clam noodle soup is elevated with the zesty kick of chopped chili peppers. We’ll guide you through making a delicious kalguksu that rivals restaurant quality, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Recipe Info

  • Category : Noodles & Dumplings
  • Ingredient Category : Seafood
  • Occasion : Everyday
  • Cooking : Boil / Simmer
  • Servings : 4 servings
  • Cooking Time : Within 60 minutes
  • Difficulty : Beginner

Noodle Soup Ingredients

  • 2L Anchovy Broth (or store-bought broth)
  • 3-4 servings fresh Kalguksu noodles
  • 500g fresh clams, purged
  • 1/3 Korean zucchini
  • 1/3 carrot
  • 1/2 onion
  • 1 Tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 Cheongyang chili pepper (optional, for extra spice)
  • Pinch of black pepper

Cooking Instructions

Step 1

First, prepare the clams and vegetables that will give the kalguksu its delicious flavor. Soak the clams in salt water to purge them of sand. Thinly slice the zucchini and carrot, and thinly slice or roughly chop the onion. If using, remove seeds from the Cheongyang chili pepper and finely chop it. Fresh kalguksu noodles often have excess flour; lightly dust this off before adding them to boiling water.

Step 1

Step 2

Prepare a rich anchovy broth for deep flavor. In 2L of water, add dried anchovies, kelp, and dried shiitake mushrooms (if using). Simmer for 10-15 minutes, then strain to get a clear broth. You can also use store-bought broth or broth cubes. (If using 3 store-bought broth cubes: Add 3 cubes to 2L of water and bring to a boil.)

Step 2

Step 3

Once the broth is boiling, add the harder vegetables first: onion, zucchini, and carrot. Cook until they are tender but not mushy, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Step 4

While the vegetables are cooking, bring another pot of generously salted water to a boil for the noodles. Once boiling, add the fresh kalguksu noodles and stir to prevent sticking. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or according to package directions.

Step 4

Step 5

When the vegetables are half-cooked, add the purged clams to the pot. Cook until the clams open. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough.

Step 5

Step 6

Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to enhance the refreshing and deep flavor of the soup. Let it simmer for a bit longer to allow the garlic aroma to infuse the broth.

Step 6

Step 7

After boiling the noodles, briefly rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch. This will give them a chewier texture. Drain them well and add them to the soup pot. Cook for another minute to allow the noodles to absorb the broth’s flavor.

Step 7

Step 8

Season the soup. Add 2 tablespoons of fish sauce (or Korean soup soy sauce) for a rich umami taste. Adjust the seasoning with more fish sauce, soy sauce, or salt as needed. Tasting as you go is key!

Step 8

Step 9

Finally, sprinkle in some black pepper to further enhance the kalguksu’s aroma. The peppery notes complement the broth beautifully, adding another layer of flavor.

Step 9

Step 10

If you enjoy a spicier soup, add the chopped Cheongyang chili pepper to your liking. This will add a wonderfully spicy and refreshing element to the broth.

Step 10

Step 11

Once everything is well-cooked and the flavors have melded, ladle the hot and spicy clam noodle soup into serving bowls. Your delicious Bajirak Kalguksu is ready! Enjoy the delightful combination of chewy noodles, refreshing broth, and tender clams.

Step 11



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