Flavorful Cheonggukjang Stew: A Hearty and Slightly Spicy Korean Delight
#CheonggukjangStew #KoreanFermentedBeanPaste #DoenjangJjigae #SimpleStewRecipe #ComfortFood #WinterDish
I made a deeply savory Cheonggukjang stew using some that was in my fridge. Cheonggukjang stew is delicious on its own, but it’s even more wonderful when mixed with rice! You can also enjoy it as a bibimbap base by adding various vegetables. This stew offers a wonderfully rich and slightly spicy broth, perfect for the colder seasons. Doesn’t the thought of this hearty stew make you nostalgic for winter? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients- 500g Mixed Vegetables for Stew (including green onions, garlic, other vegetables)
- 300g Firm Tofu
- 130g Enoki Mushrooms
- 2 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 320g Cheonggukjang (Korean fermented soybean paste)
- 3 Tbsp Natural Seasoning Powder (or use kelp/anchovy broth)
- 1.5 liters Water
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
In a pot, combine the natural seasoning powder and doenjang. Pour in 1.5 liters of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring continuously to dissolve the doenjang clumps. If any lumps remain, break them down with the back of a spoon while it simmers.
Step 2
As the stew comes to a boil, skim off any foam that rises to the surface for a cleaner taste. Now, add the mixed vegetables for stew. This pre-packaged mix conveniently includes green onions, garlic, and various other vegetables, so you don’t need to add them separately, ensuring a rich flavor base.
Step 3
Once the stew is boiling with the mixed vegetables added, introduce the cheonggukjang and tofu. If the cheonggukjang is in a block, gently mash it with a spoon as you stir to incorporate it smoothly into the broth; it will also naturally break down as it simmers.
Step 4
Finally, add the enoki mushrooms. Enoki mushrooms cook very quickly and are best added last. They will become tender and delicious with just the residual heat of the stew.
Step 5
Bring the stew back to a boil, carefully skim off any new foam that appears, and your delicious Cheonggukjang stew is ready!
Step 6
For the ultimate Cheonggukjang experience, serve it piping hot in a traditional earthenware pot (ttukbaegi)! The bubbling stew will fill your home with a deeply savory aroma, complemented by a hint of spiciness that will awaken your appetite. Thanks to the chili peppers in the mixed vegetables, the stew has a pleasant kick without needing extra chili powder, and the harmonious blend of doenjang and cheonggukjang makes for a satisfying meal that pairs perfectly with a bowl of rice. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Cheonggukjang stew!
