Dive into the heart of Korean cuisine with the comforting and savory Doenjang Guk, a traditional soybean paste soup that’s sure to warm your soul! With its rich umami flavor and nourishing ingredients, this dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Seoul. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering, this recipe is simple yet incredibly satisfying. Ready to discover the secrets behind this delightful soup? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Korean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons doenjang (soybean paste)
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 potato, diced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure the zucchini is sliced, the potato is diced, the onion is sliced, and the garlic is minced. Chop the green onion and set it aside for garnish.
- In a large pot, pour in 4 cups of water and place it over medium heat. Allow the water to come to a gentle boil.
- Once the water is boiling, add 2 tablespoons of doenjang (soybean paste) to the pot. Stir well until the doenjang is fully dissolved in the water.
- Add the sliced zucchini, diced potato, and sliced onion to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- While the soup is simmering, add the minced garlic to the pot. This will infuse the soup with a rich garlic flavor.
- After 15 minutes, taste the soup and season it with salt and pepper to your preference. Stir well to incorporate the seasoning.
- Once the vegetables are cooked through and the flavors have melded together, remove the pot from heat.
- Serve the Doenjang Guk hot in bowls, garnishing each serving with the chopped green onion for added freshness and flavor.
- Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Korean Soybean Paste Soup with rice or as a standalone dish!
Tips
- Quality Matters: Use high-quality doenjang (soybean paste) for the best flavor. If possible, opt for a locally made or artisanal brand to enhance the authenticity of your soup.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or carrots to personalize your Doenjang Guk. Each addition can bring a unique flavor and texture to the dish.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a heartier soup, reduce the amount of water slightly or add more doenjang. Conversely, for a lighter broth, increase the water.
- Garnish for Freshness: Always finish your soup with freshly chopped green onions. This not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that elevates the overall taste.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your Doenjang Guk with a bowl of steamed rice and some banchan (Korean side dishes) for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
