Spicy and Hearty Korean Tofu Stew (Dubu Jjigae) Recipe
Quick and Easy Spicy Tofu Stew
Always a beloved dish due to its simple preparation and short cooking time, this spicy tofu stew is a crowd-pleaser.
Main Ingredients
- 1 block (500g) Tofu: Adds a soft texture and nutty flavor. Firm tofu is recommended for stew.
- 40g Green Onion (Scallion): The secret to a refreshing broth! Slice diagonally and add for a fragrant touch.
- 4 cloves Garlic: While minced garlic is fine, whole cloves add a deeper flavor to the broth.
Broth Seasoning
- 500ml Anchovy Broth: Rice water or kelp broth can also be used for delicious results.
- 2 Tbsp Soy Sauce for Soup (Gukganjang): The fundamental seasoning for adding umami.
- 1 Tbsp Fish Sauce: Makes the broth richer and more profound.
- 0.5 Tbsp Red Pepper Paste (Gochujang): Adds a spicy and savory flavor.
- 2 Tbsp Red Pepper Flakes (Gochugaru): Responsible for the spicy broth color and heat. Adjust to your preference.
- 1 Tbsp Perilla Oil (Deulgireum): Enhances the stew’s aroma and flavor with its nutty scent. Can be substituted with sesame oil.
- 0.5 Tbsp Salt: To adjust the final seasoning. Adjust based on the saltiness of soy sauce or fish sauce.
- 500ml Anchovy Broth: Rice water or kelp broth can also be used for delicious results.
- 2 Tbsp Soy Sauce for Soup (Gukganjang): The fundamental seasoning for adding umami.
- 1 Tbsp Fish Sauce: Makes the broth richer and more profound.
- 0.5 Tbsp Red Pepper Paste (Gochujang): Adds a spicy and savory flavor.
- 2 Tbsp Red Pepper Flakes (Gochugaru): Responsible for the spicy broth color and heat. Adjust to your preference.
- 1 Tbsp Perilla Oil (Deulgireum): Enhances the stew’s aroma and flavor with its nutty scent. Can be substituted with sesame oil.
- 0.5 Tbsp Salt: To adjust the final seasoning. Adjust based on the saltiness of soy sauce or fish sauce.
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, cut the tofu into large pieces and slice the green onions diagonally. You can use whole garlic cloves, or slice them thinly or mince them for a more flavorful broth. (Tip: Adding plenty of green onions makes the broth more refreshing and clean!)
Step 2
In a pot, combine the anchovy broth and all the broth seasoning ingredients (soy sauce for soup, fish sauce, red pepper paste, red pepper flakes, perilla oil) and bring to a boil over high heat. Once the broth is vigorously boiling, stir to dissolve the seasonings.
Step 3
When the broth is boiling well, carefully add the sliced tofu, followed by the sliced green onions and the crushed whole garlic (or minced garlic). Be careful not to stir too vigorously after adding the ingredients.
Step 4
Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for just 1-2 minutes more. It’s important not to overcook the tofu, as it can break apart easily. Adjust the final seasoning with salt if needed.
Step 5
Serve the finished tofu stew beautifully in a bowl. It’s delicious to eat over a bowl of rice or enjoyed on its own as a satisfying meal. Enjoy your delicious meal with this spicy and hearty tofu stew!
