Hearty Mussel and Kelp Soup: A Refreshing Korean Classic
Mastering Sun-Mi’s Kitchen-Style Mussel and Kelp Soup Recipe
This past week, we featured a delightful Mussel and Kelp Soup on Sun-Mi’s Kitchen. It’s especially delicious when prepared during the winter months! Mussels are also quite affordable, making them a versatile ingredient for many dishes – a true win-win. While Sun-Mi’s recipe uses fresh mussel meat, you can certainly use dried mussels too. If opting for dried mussels, remember to rinse them and soak them briefly before use. Let’s get started with the recipe!
Main Ingredients
- 1 bowl of fresh mussel meat
- 50g dried seaweed (kelp)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 2 Tbsp soup soy sauce (Guk-ganjang)
- 10 whole garlic cloves
Seasoning and Flavoring
- 1/2 Tbsp plum extract (Maesil-cheong)
- 1/2 Tbsp brewed soy sauce (Yangjo-ganjang)
- 2 Tbsp soup soy sauce (Guk-ganjang)
- Pinch of salt (to taste)
- 1/2 Tbsp plum extract (Maesil-cheong)
- 1/2 Tbsp brewed soy sauce (Yangjo-ganjang)
- 2 Tbsp soup soy sauce (Guk-ganjang)
- Pinch of salt (to taste)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by soaking 50g of dried seaweed in water for about 30 minutes until it becomes soft and pliable. Ensure it’s fully rehydrated.
Step 2
Once rehydrated, squeeze out excess water from the seaweed and chop it into bite-sized pieces. It’s best to chop the seaweed beforehand for easier cooking.
Step 3
In a deep pot or wok, heat 1 Tbsp of sesame oil and 2 Tbsp of soup soy sauce over medium-low heat. Add the chopped seaweed and sauté until fragrant. This step helps to bring out the seaweed’s natural umami flavor.
Step 4
After sautéing the seaweed, pour in 2.5 liters of clean water. This will form the base of your clear and refreshing broth.
Step 5
Wash the 10 whole garlic cloves and cut them in half. Adding garlic will infuse the soup with a subtle, deep flavor.
Step 6
Let the broth simmer over medium heat for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Then, add the halved garlic cloves and continue to simmer.
Step 7
Finally, stir in 1/2 Tbsp of plum extract, 1/2 Tbsp of brewed soy sauce, and 2 Tbsp of soup soy sauce to season. Add about one bowl of fresh mussel meat and cook for another 6 minutes. Your delicious and refreshing Mussel and Kelp Soup is now ready! Adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt if needed.
