Spicy Korean Bean Paste Stew (Sundubu Chigae)
Savor the rich and robust flavors of this traditional Korean Bean Paste Stew, also known as Sundubu Chigae. This hearty dish, often enjoyed in Korean households and restaurants alike, is a delightful combination of spicy Korean bean paste, fresh vegetables, and silky soft tofu. The stew comes together in just one pot, making it an ideal choice for a quick yet flavorful meal. Serve it piping hot with a side of fluffy rice and tangy kimchi for a truly authentic experience. Perfect for warming you up on a chilly day or simply to satisfy your cravings for Korean cuisine.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
water
3 1/2 cups
Korean fermented bean paste (Denjang)
3 tablespoons
garlic, minced
1 tablespoon
dashi granules
1/2 tablespoon
Korean hot pepper paste (Gochujang)
1/2 tablespoon
zucchini, cubed
1
potato, peeled and cubed
1
fresh mushrooms, quartered
1/4 lb
onion, chopped
1
soft tofu, cubed
1 (12 ounce) package
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan over medium heat, pour in the water, then add the Korean fermented bean paste (Denjang), minced garlic, dashi granules, and Korean hot pepper paste (Gochujang). Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it boil for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
2
Once boiling, add in the cubed zucchini, peeled and cubed potato, quartered fresh mushrooms, and chopped onion. Cover and let the mixture boil for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3
Gently stir in the cubed soft tofu, taking care not to break it apart too much. Allow the stew to simmer for another 3 to 5 minutes, until the tofu is heated through and slightly expanded, and the vegetables are perfectly tender.
4
Remove from heat and serve your spicy Korean bean paste stew hot, accompanied by a bowl of steaming rice and some kimchi on the side for a delicious and authentic meal.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sundubu Chigae?
Sundubu Chigae is a traditional Spicy Korean Bean Paste Stew known for its rich flavors and silky soft tofu.
What is the main base of this stew?
The base is made from water, Korean fermented bean paste (Denjang), dashi granules, and Korean hot pepper paste (Gochujang).
Is this recipe spicy?
Yes, the inclusion of Korean hot pepper paste (Gochujang) gives the stew a spicy kick.
What kind of tofu is used in this recipe?
This recipe uses soft tofu, which is cubed and added toward the end of the cooking process.
How long does it take to cook the vegetables?
The vegetables, including zucchini, potato, mushrooms, and onion, should be boiled for about 5 to 7 minutes until tender.
Can I make this in one pot?
Yes, this is a one-pot dish, making it very easy to prepare and clean up.
What are dashi granules?
Dashi granules are an instant soup stock used to add a savory umami flavor to the stew.
What is Denjang?
Denjang is a traditional Korean fermented bean paste that provides a robust and salty depth to the dish.
How should I serve Spicy Korean Bean Paste Stew?
It is best served piping hot with a side of fluffy white rice and tangy kimchi.
Can I add meat to this stew?
While this version focuses on vegetables and tofu, you can add seafood or thinly sliced meat if desired.
How much water is required?
The recipe calls for 3 1/2 cups of water.
What vegetables are included in this recipe?
The recipe includes zucchini, potato, fresh mushrooms, and onion.
How do I prepare the garlic?
The garlic should be minced before being added to the boiling water.
How do I prepare the potato?
The potato should be peeled and then cut into cubes.
What is the first step in cooking this stew?
The first step is to bring water, bean paste, garlic, dashi, and hot pepper paste to a boil in a large saucepan.
How long should the tofu simmer?
The tofu should simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until it is heated through and slightly expanded.
Can I use different types of mushrooms?
Yes, while the recipe calls for fresh mushrooms, you can use varieties like shiitake or button mushrooms.
Is this stew suitable for cold weather?
Yes, it is considered a comfort food and is perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
Should I stir the tofu vigorously?
No, you should gently stir the tofu to avoid breaking the soft cubes apart too much.
What is Gochujang?
Gochujang is a savory, sweet, and spicy fermented condiment made from chili powder and glutinous rice.
How many mushrooms are needed?
The recipe requires 1/4 lb of quartered fresh mushrooms.
Can I use dried dashi?
The recipe specifically calls for 1/2 tablespoon of dashi granules for ease of use.
What size of tofu package is needed?
A standard 12-ounce package of soft tofu is required.
Do I need to cover the pot?
Yes, you should cover the pot while boiling the vegetables to ensure they cook evenly.
Is this an authentic Korean recipe?
Yes, the combination of Denjang, Gochujang, and dashi makes for an authentic Korean flavor profile.
How many onions are used?
The recipe uses one chopped onion.
What is the texture of the stew?
The stew has a hearty texture from the vegetables balanced by the silky smoothness of the tofu.
Can I substitute the soft tofu with firm tofu?
You can, but the traditional texture of Sundubu Chigae relies on the delicate nature of soft tofu.
How long does the initial paste mixture boil?
The water and paste mixture should boil for about 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld before adding vegetables.
What is the total cooking time approximately?
The total active cooking time is approximately 15 to 20 minutes once the water is boiling.