Sundubu Jjigae Recipe – South Korea's Comforting Stew

Name: Sundubu Jjigae
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 3-5 servings
Cuisine: South-Korea
Ingredients: anchovy broth; beef thinly; black pepper; cloves garlic; egg; g pork belly; gochugaru korean red chili flakes; gochujang korean red chili paste; green onions; kimchi; onion thinly; package about soft tofu sundubu; salt; sesame oil; soy sauce; vegetable oil; water; zucchini halved

Sundubu Jjigae is a comforting Korean stew made with soft tofu, vegetables, and meat, often enjoyed during cold weather. This dish holds a special place in South Korean cuisine, commonly served in homes and restaurants alike. It's a staple for family gatherings and is often enjoyed with a bowl of rice.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

1 package (about 10 oz) soft tofu (sundubu)
4 oz (115 g) pork belly or beef, thinly sliced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 zucchini, halved and sliced
1 cup kimchi, chopped
1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cups water or anchovy broth
1 egg
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Broth

In a pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and thinly sliced onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Add the Meat

Add the thinly sliced pork belly or beef to the pot. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through.

Add the Seasonings

Stir in the gochugaru, gochujang, and soy sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the mixture is well combined and fragrant.

Add the Vegetables and Kimchi

Add the chopped kimchi and sliced zucchini to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Add the Tofu and Broth

Gently add the soft tofu (sundubu) to the pot, breaking it into large chunks.

Pour in the water or anchovy broth.

Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Finish the Stew

Stir in the sesame oil and chopped green onions.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Crack an egg into the stew and let it poach in the hot broth for a few minutes until the egg white is set but the yolk is still runny.

Serve

Serve the sundubu-jjigae hot, directly from the pot. Accompany the stew with steamed rice and additional side dishes like kimchi or pickled vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sundubu Jjigae?

Sundubu Jjigae is a spicy Korean stew featuring soft tofu, vegetables, and often meat or seafood. It's known for its rich flavors and comforting texture.

Where does Sundubu Jjigae come from?

Sundubu Jjigae originates from Korea and is a popular dish in Korean households and restaurants, celebrated for its warmth and heartiness.

What are the main ingredients in Sundubu Jjigae?

Key ingredients include soft tofu, pork belly or beef, onion, green onions, garlic, zucchini, kimchi, and gochugaru.

How long does Sundubu Jjigae take to make?

Sundubu Jjigae takes approximately 35-45 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Sundubu Jjigae?

Serve Sundubu Jjigae with steamed white rice and a side of pickled vegetables or Korean banchan for a complete meal.

Sundubu Jjigae