Spicy Mushroom and Tofu Stew: A Flavorful and Hearty Korean Comfort Dish
Easy and Delicious Soup Dish: Making Spicy Mushroom and Tofu Stew
When you’re unsure what side dishes to prepare, a block of tofu and some mushrooms from your fridge can help you create a satisfying and delicious meal in no time. This spicy mushroom and tofu stew features a deep, rich broth from the chewy king oyster mushrooms and soft tofu, making it so irresistible that you’ll want to pair it with two bowls of rice! Here’s a recipe for a magical stew that’s not light but possesses a substantial, comforting flavor, perfect for the whole family to enjoy.
Main Ingredients- 1 block Tofu (approx. 300g)
- 1 pack King Oyster Mushrooms (approx. 150g)
- 2 Korean Red Peppers (Cheongyang Peppers)
- 700ml Anchovy Broth (or water)
- 1 Tbsp Perilla Oil (or sesame oil)
- Pinch of Salt
- Pinch of Black Pepper
Stew Seasoning- 2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 0.5 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp Mirin (or cooking wine)
- 0.5 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1 Tbsp Saeujeot (fermented shrimp paste, finely minced)
- 2 tsp Brown Sugar
- 1 Tbsp Fish Sauce (anchovy or shrimp)
- 2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 0.5 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp Mirin (or cooking wine)
- 0.5 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1 Tbsp Saeujeot (fermented shrimp paste, finely minced)
- 2 tsp Brown Sugar
- 1 Tbsp Fish Sauce (anchovy or shrimp)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare all the ingredients for the stew. Slice the tofu to a moderate thickness so it doesn’t break apart easily while cooking. Trim the tough ends off the king oyster mushrooms and separate them into bite-sized pieces by hand. Slice the Cheongyang peppers diagonally to add a spicy kick and aroma. Set aside.
Step 2
To enhance the chewy texture of the king oyster mushrooms, trim off the tough bottom ends and then gently pull them apart into strands by hand. This helps the seasoning penetrate better and makes them easier to eat. Set the prepared mushrooms aside.
Step 3
Slice the tofu into roughly 1.5-2 cm thick pieces. This slightly larger size will help maintain the tofu’s soft texture during simmering. Arrange the sliced tofu on a cutting board.
Step 4
For a spicy and refreshing broth, thinly slice the Cheongyang peppers diagonally after removing the stems. If you prefer less heat, you can adjust the number of peppers or remove the seeds. Set the sliced peppers aside.
Step 5
Now, let’s make the seasoning that will give the stew its delicious depth. In a wide bowl, combine the gochugaru, gochujang, minced garlic, fish sauce, finely minced saeujeot, mirin, and brown sugar. Stir everything thoroughly with a spoon until well combined. Ensuring all ingredients are evenly mixed is key.
Step 6
Heat 1 tablespoon of perilla oil in a pot. Arrange the separated king oyster mushrooms at the bottom. Spoon about half of the prepared seasoning mixture over the mushrooms, spreading it evenly. Next, carefully place the sliced tofu on top of the mushrooms. Pour in 700ml of the anchovy broth, ensuring the ingredients are mostly submerged.
Step 7
Add the remaining seasoning mixture to the pot. Bring the stew to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes. You’ll hear a pleasant bubbling sound, indicating that the flavors are melding beautifully and the mushrooms and tofu are absorbing the seasoning.
Step 8
After simmering for about 10 minutes, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed. While saeujeot and fish sauce are already in the seasoning, a final touch of salt can perfectly balance and refine the overall flavor. Adjust to your preference.
Step 9
Finally, add the diagonally sliced Cheongyang peppers to the stew. Increase the heat to high and bring it to a quick boil for just a moment. Avoid overcooking the peppers; a brief boil will preserve their crispness and fresh aroma. This is done right before turning off the heat.
Step 10
Just before turning off the heat, sprinkle a pinch of black pepper over the stew. This adds a fragrant aroma, further enhancing the stew’s overall flavor. Your delicious spicy mushroom and tofu stew is now complete! Enjoy it with a warm bowl of rice.
Step 11
Even though this tofu stew is quickly prepared without complicated ingredients or steps, its flavor is deeply satisfying. The harmony of mushrooms and tofu, combined with the spicy seasoning, creates a wonderful meal that will have you finishing your rice in no time.
