Imagine a soup so simple yet profoundly satisfying that it can instantly transport you to the heart of Korean home cooking. Muguk, or Korean radish soup, is more than just a dish—it's a warm embrace on a chilly day, a nostalgic reminder of grandmother's kitchen, and a testament to the beauty of minimalist cooking. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you'll create a light, nourishing soup that speaks volumes about Korean culinary tradition.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Korean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium Korean radish, sliced
- 6 cups water
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Optional: sliced beef or tofu
Instructions
- Wash and peel the Korean radish, then slice it into thin, uniform half-moon or quarter-moon shaped pieces approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- If using beef, thinly slice the meat into small, bite-sized pieces and season lightly with a pinch of salt.
- Heat sesame oil in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. If using beef, sauté the meat first until it turns light brown and releases its aromatic flavors.
- Add the sliced radish to the pot and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, allowing the radish to absorb the sesame oil and develop a slight translucent appearance.
- Pour 6 cups of water into the pot, ensuring the radish is fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until the radish becomes soft and tender.
- If using tofu, add cubed tofu during the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat through.
- Season the soup with salt to taste, starting with 1 teaspoon and adjusting according to preference.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped green onions.
- Serve hot in individual bowls, preferably accompanied by a side of steamed rice.
Tips
- Choose the right radish: Korean radish (mu) is key to authentic flavor. Look for firm, white radishes without blemishes.
- Slice radish uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
- Don't rush the simmering process—slow cooking allows the radish to release its subtle, sweet flavors.
- For a protein boost, use lean beef or soft tofu, but the soup is delicious even without meat.
- Season gradually and taste as you go—the beauty of Muguk is in its delicate seasoning.
- Fresh green onions are not just a garnish but add a bright, fresh finish to the soup.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
