Hearty Beef and Radish Soup (So-gogi Mu-guk): A Refreshing Bowl to Beat the Rainy Season Dampness
Make a Delicious Beef and Radish Soup to Drive Away Dampness This Rainy Season
The relentless sun was so intense there was no shade, and sweat was dripping down. Just as I thought a little rain would be nice, a torrential downpour came. It felt like the whole neighborhood might be washed away. Everything feels damp, humid, and gloomy, even our spirits. On days like these, a bowl of piping hot soup with a cup of rice feels like it can expel all the dampness from your body. When the humidity is high and things feel muggy, a warm broth is the best.
Main Ingredients- Beef (for soup) 200g
- Korean Radish (Mu) 1/3 medium (approx. 300-400g)
- Scallion 1/2 stalk
Seasoning- Soup Soy Sauce (Guk-ganjang) 2 Tbsp
- Anchovy Sauce (or Fish Sauce) 2 Tbsp
- Minced Garlic 1 Tbsp
- Salt (for final seasoning adjustment)
- Soup Soy Sauce (Guk-ganjang) 2 Tbsp
- Anchovy Sauce (or Fish Sauce) 2 Tbsp
- Minced Garlic 1 Tbsp
- Salt (for final seasoning adjustment)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Whether it’s a rainy day or just a humid one, beef and radish soup always sounds appealing. Let’s make this delicious and deeply flavorful soup that many people love!
Step 2
First, let’s gather the ingredients for our beef and radish soup. We need 200g of beef suitable for soup, about 1/3 of a Korean radish (approximately 300-400g) for a refreshing taste, and half a stalk of scallion for aromatic depth.
Step 3
While many recipes suggest searing the beef first and then adding the radish, we’ll try a slightly different approach today. Slice the radish thinly, then place it in the pot along with the beef. Pour in plenty of water and bring it to a boil together. This method allows the refreshing essence of the radish and the savory richness of the beef to meld beautifully.
Step 4
As the soup begins to boil, continuously skim off any scum, blood, or impurities that rise to the surface. Removing these will result in a clearer, cleaner broth. Repeat this skimming process a few times for a pristine soup base.
Step 5
Now it’s time to season the broth. For our beef and radish soup seasoning, add 2 tablespoons of soup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of anchovy sauce (or fish sauce) for added depth of flavor, and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to eliminate any gamey taste. This is where we start building the savory foundation.
Step 6
The key to a perfect beef and radish soup is when the radish turns translucent and becomes tender. Let it simmer gently over medium-low heat until the radish is fully cooked and the soup has slightly reduced. Finally, adjust the seasoning with salt to your preference, completing the rich and satisfying flavor profile.
Step 7
Lastly, add the remaining half stalk of scallion, roughly chopped, and let it simmer for another minute or two until the soup is fully combined. The fragrant aroma of the scallions will enhance the overall taste, making it even more delightful.
Step 8
The tender radish melts in your mouth, and a spoonful of the warm broth will send a comforting warmth through your entire body. If you like, sprinkle a little black pepper on top for an extra refreshing kick. For the beef in the soup, using cuts with a bit of fat will make them extra tender and delicious.
Step 9
On days when the lingering dampness of the rainy season needs to be banished, this beef and radish soup is the perfect solution. Even in hot weather, consuming warm foods can help drive out internal coldness and restore energy. You’ll feel lighter and less susceptible to the heat. Thank you for joining me in cooking today! ^^
