Hearty Beef and Seaweed Soup (Miyeokguk)
A Rich and Flavorful Beef Seaweed Soup Perfect for a Special Birthday Meal
Your birthday deserves a special bowl of Miyeokguk! This recipe features tender, shredded beef that adds a wonderful richness, complemented by a clear and savory broth. It’s a comforting soup that’s perfect for celebrating.
Ingredients- Dried Seaweed (Miyeok) 30g
- Beef Brisket or Soup Cut 200g
- Garlic, minced 2 cloves
- Soup Soy Sauce (Gukganjang) 2 Tbsp
- Salt 1 Tbsp (adjust to taste)
- Sesame Oil 1 Tbsp
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by preparing your ingredients. For the beef, soak it in cold water for about 15-30 minutes to remove excess blood. This step is crucial for a clean-tasting broth and to eliminate any gamey odor.
Step 2
Place the rinsed beef in a pot and cover with 2 liters (approx. 8 cups) of cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 30 minutes to an hour, or until the beef is tender. Gentle simmering is key to achieving tender meat.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, place the dried seaweed and soak it in lukewarm water for about 10-20 minutes until it becomes soft and rehydrated. Ensure the seaweed is fully softened.
Step 4
Once the beef is cooked and tender, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Pat it dry with a paper towel and then shred it into long, thin strips along the grain. Shredding enhances the texture and makes it easier to eat.
Step 5
Squeeze out excess water from the rehydrated seaweed and chop it into bite-sized pieces, about 3-4 cm in length. This size is easy to handle when eating the soup.
Step 6
Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a pot or deep pan over medium heat. Add the chopped seaweed and sauté for 3-5 minutes until it softens and becomes slightly glossy. Pour in 2 tablespoons of soup soy sauce and continue to stir-fry for another minute to release the seaweed’s aroma and flavor.
Step 7
Add the sautéed seaweed and the shredded beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth (about 2 liters) you prepared earlier. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to start seasoning, and taste to adjust if needed. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 8
When the soup is well-simmered, stir in the minced garlic. Let it simmer for another minute or two to infuse the soup with a fresh garlic aroma without overcooking it.
Step 9
Your delicious Beef Seaweed Soup is ready! The rich beef broth and savory seaweed create a wonderfully refreshing taste. If you find the seaweed has a slightly bitter note, a tiny pinch of MSG (flavor enhancer) can help balance the flavor for an even more delightful soup. Enjoy this special soup for your celebration!
