Spicy Tuna and Soft Tofu Stew (Gochu Chamchi Sundubu Jjigae): Quick & Easy Recipe
Perfect for When You Crave Something Tangy! Deep-Flavored Soft Tofu Stew Made with Spicy Tuna
Hello everyone! I’m Ryu Yi, a Naver Food influencer. 🙂 If you usually make kimchi soft tofu stew, today I’m introducing the ‘Spicy Tuna Soft Tofu Stew,’ which gained popularity thanks to actor Jo In Sung! It’s incredibly simple because you can achieve a deep and rich broth flavor using just one can of spicy tuna, eliminating the need for separate broth preparation. Enjoy a bowl of piping hot and spicy soft tofu stew on a chilly day for a satisfying meal!
Main Ingredients- 1 large can of spicy tuna (Gochu Chamchi)
- 1 packet of soft tofu (about 350g)
- 1/2 zucchini
- 1/2 onion
- A handful of dried shiitake mushrooms
- 1/2 stalk of green onion
- 1-3 Cheongyang peppers (Korean chili peppers)
- 1 red chili pepper
- 1 egg (yolk only)
- A bit of crown daisy (for garnish)
Broth & Seasoning- 800ml water infused with dried shiitake mushrooms (approx. 4 cups)
- 3 Tbsp sesame oil (for green onion oil)
- 1 Tbsp chili powder (generous)
- 2 Tbsp fish sauce (e.g., anchovy or sand lance)
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 800ml water infused with dried shiitake mushrooms (approx. 4 cups)
- 3 Tbsp sesame oil (for green onion oil)
- 1 Tbsp chili powder (generous)
- 2 Tbsp fish sauce (e.g., anchovy or sand lance)
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Make the Flavorful Broth: Rinse the dried shiitake mushrooms thoroughly, then soak a handful in 800ml of water for about 20-30 minutes to create a delicious shiitake mushroom broth. You can also include the rehydrated mushrooms in the stew for extra flavor.
Step 2
Prepare the Soft Tofu: Carefully cut the soft tofu packet in half horizontally. Use a spoon to scoop out large chunks of the tofu. You can reserve the water released from the tofu to use later if desired.
Step 3
Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the green onion and dice the onion. Remove the stems from the Cheongyang and red chili peppers and slice them thinly on an angle to add color and spiciness.
Step 4
Sauté Green Onion: Heat 3 tablespoons of sesame oil in a pot or clay pot. Add the chopped green onion and stir-fry over medium-low heat until fragrant and lightly golden, creating a delicious green onion oil. This step brings out the sweetness of the onion.
Step 5
Sauté Onion: Once the green onion oil is fragrant, add the diced onion and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and softened, adding natural sweetness to the stew.
Step 6
Make Chili Oil: Reduce the heat to low. Add 1 generous tablespoon of chili powder and stir quickly to prevent burning, allowing it to infuse into the oil and create chili oil. Be careful not to burn the chili powder, as it can make the stew bitter.
Step 7
Sauté Spicy Tuna: Now, add the entire can of spicy tuna, including the oil, to the pot. Stir-fry briefly with the other ingredients to combine. This step enhances the savory flavor from the tuna.
Step 8
Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the prepared shiitake mushroom broth (800ml) and bring to a boil over high heat. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface. Don’t remove all the chili oil; leaving some will contribute to the rich flavor of the broth.
Step 9
Add Tofu and Seasoning: Gently add the prepared soft tofu chunks to the simmering stew. Season with 2 tablespoons of fish sauce and 1/2 tablespoon of minced garlic. Adjust seasoning to your taste. (Discard the water that came out of the tofu packet.)
Step 10
Finish Cooking: Once the stew returns to a boil, add the sliced Cheongyang and red chili peppers. Simmer for a little longer until everything is well combined and the flavors meld together. Your spicy tuna soft tofu stew is ready!
Step 11
Plate and Garnish: Carefully transfer the finished stew into a serving bowl. Gently place the fresh egg yolk in the center. Garnish with aromatic crown daisy for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!
