Rich and Refreshing Shrimp Kalguksu (Noodle Soup)
Autumn’s Seasonal Delicacy! Hearty Kalguksu with Fresh Shrimp and Clams
Seasonal ingredients are the best medicine for our bodies ^^. This Shrimp Kalguksu, made with plump, in-season shrimp and fresh clams, boasts a wonderfully refreshing and deep flavor. It’s a satisfying and nutritious meal perfect for the whole family.
Ingredients- 6 fresh shrimp
- 1 handful clams, purged of sand
- 2 shiitake mushrooms
- 1 onion
- 2 potatoes
- 1 stalk green onion
- 2 eggs
- A bit of chives
- 2 servings instant broth (coin broth)
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce for soup (guk-ganjang)
- A little tuna fish sauce (to adjust seasoning)
- 3-4 servings fresh kalguksu noodles
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the star ingredient: the shrimp. Twist off the heads and peel the shells completely. Wash the shrimp heads and set them aside; they will be used later to enhance the broth’s depth. Make sure to purge the clams of sand by soaking them in saltwater.
Step 2
Slice the shiitake mushrooms thinly into rounds, about 5mm thick. This will allow their wonderful aroma to infuse into the soup.
Step 3
Peel the potatoes and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Avoid cutting them too thin, as they might break apart during cooking. They add a lovely sweetness to the broth.
Step 4
Peel and thickly slice the onion. As it cooks, the onion will release its natural sweetness, enriching the soup’s flavor profile.
Step 5
Slice the green onion diagonally. Both the white and green parts can be used for a balanced flavor.
Step 6
Now, let’s make the delicious broth. In a pot, add enough water for the soup and drop in 2 servings of instant coin broth. Add the reserved shrimp heads to the pot; they will impart a deep umami flavor as they simmer. Once the water comes to a rolling boil, add the purged clams. A moment later, add the sliced potatoes, shiitake mushrooms, and onion.
Step 7
While the broth is simmering, crack the 2 eggs into a bowl and whisk them well. Once the broth is boiling and the vegetables are starting to soften, slowly drizzle the whisked egg into the boiling soup. Then, add the kalguksu noodles.
Step 8
Resist the urge to stir immediately after adding the egg. Let it cook undisturbed for a moment. The egg will gently set and float, creating beautiful ribbons in the soup, much like poached eggs, without breaking apart.
Step 9
Finally, it’s time to add the prepared shrimp. For easier eating, especially for children, cut the shrimp into bite-sized pieces instead of adding them whole. (Tip: Shrimp can become tough if overcooked, so add them only when the noodles are almost done.) Now, let’s season the soup. Start with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce for soup (guk-ganjang). Taste and, if needed, add a little tuna fish sauce to achieve your desired saltiness. Add the prepared chives and green onions, and simmer for another moment until everything is cooked through. Your delicious Shrimp Kalguksu is ready to be enjoyed!
