Spicy and Savory Chungcheong-style Jjukkumi Jjabaegi
Chungcheong-style Spicy and Savory Jjukkumi Jjabaegi for Home
Experience the wonderful harmony of spicy broth and chewy baby octopus! Try making ‘Jjukkumi Jjabaegi’, a specialty from the Chungcheong region, easily at home. The crisp vegetables and flavorful seasoning create a delightful dish that’s perfect as a side for rice or as a snack with drinks. Use fresh baby octopus to recreate your mother’s signature taste.
Main Ingredients- 5 fresh baby octopuses (Jjukkumi)
- 1/2 onion
- 1/2 zucchini
- 1 Korean chili pepper (Cheongyang pepper)
Seasoning- 2 Tbsp red chili flakes (Gochugaru)
- 1 Tbsp traditional soy sauce (Joseon Ganjang)
- 1 Tbsp “Magic Kitchen” liquid seasoning (adds umami)
- 500ml water
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp anchovy sauce (for deep flavor)
- 2 Tbsp red chili flakes (Gochugaru)
- 1 Tbsp traditional soy sauce (Joseon Ganjang)
- 1 Tbsp “Magic Kitchen” liquid seasoning (adds umami)
- 500ml water
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp anchovy sauce (for deep flavor)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Clean the fresh baby octopuses thoroughly and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Cutting them not too small ensures a pleasant chewy texture.
Step 2
In a pot, add 500ml of water. Then, add the red chili flakes, traditional soy sauce, and “Magic Kitchen” liquid seasoning. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. It’s important to let the seasonings dissolve and boil well.
Step 3
Once the broth is boiling vigorously, add the prepared baby octopuses and cook them together. Be careful not to overcook the baby octopus, as it can become tough. Cook just until done.
Step 4
Cut the zucchini and onion into thick julienne strips. Cutting the vegetables coarsely provides a good texture and allows them to blend well with the broth.
Step 5
When the baby octopus is partially cooked, add the julienned zucchini and onion to the pot and continue to simmer. As the vegetables cook, their natural sweetness will infuse the broth, making it even more delicious.
Step 6
Add the chopped Korean chili pepper for a spicy kick. If you prefer it spicier, feel free to increase the amount of chili pepper.
Step 7
Finally, add the minced garlic and let it simmer for a little longer. Minced garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor.
Step 8
Lastly, add 1 Tbsp of anchovy sauce to season and stir everything together. Your delicious Jjukkumi Jjabaegi is now complete! The anchovy sauce will give the broth a richer, more savory taste.
