Spring’s Bounty: Savory and Refreshing Dotari Sookguk (Striped Jewelfish and Mugwort Soup)
#SeasonalDish #SpringRecipe #DotariSookguk #SavorySoup #KoreanFood
Savor the vibrant taste of spring with this ‘Dotari Sookguk’ recipe! This delightful soup beautifully balances the savory depth of striped jewelfish with the fresh, aromatic notes of mugwort. Traditionally enjoyed in Tongyeong during springtime, this comforting soup can now be easily recreated at home. Using a base of rich broth and fermented soybean paste (doenjang), we enhance the natural flavors of the fresh ingredients for a soup that’s both hearty and invigorating. Add a touch of spring to your table with this exquisite, soul-warming dish!
Main Ingredients- 1 Striped Jewelfish (Dotari), cleaned
- 1/3 bunch Fresh Mugwort (Sookgat)
- 1 slice Radish (Mu), thinly sliced
- 1 tsp Minced Garlic
- 2 Tbsp Scallions, chopped
- 1 Tbsp Fermented Soybean Paste (Doenjang)
- 1 pack Silken Tofu (Yeondubu)
- 2 cups Broth (e.g., Anchovy-Kelp or Vegetable)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, inspect the contents of your meal kit. Typically, it will include silken tofu, sliced radish, and scallions. Ensure you have fresh mugwort ready. While preparing this dish from scratch requires sourcing dotari, mugwort, and radish separately, a meal kit offers a wonderfully convenient start.
Step 2
Mugwort is generally best added towards the end to preserve its fresh aroma. However, if you’re pressed for time, you can add all ingredients together at the beginning. (Tip: For maximum mugwort fragrance, consider adding it during the last 5 minutes of cooking, once the broth has developed.)
Step 3
Add the prepared striped jewelfish to the pot. Dissolve the doenjang (fermented soybean paste) thoroughly in the broth and pour it into the pot. Bring the soup to a rolling boil over high heat. Remember, using doenjang for seasoning is key to achieving the authentic, savory flavor of Dotari Sookguk! (Tip: Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes until all ingredients are tender.)
Step 4
The natural oils from the striped jewelfish will enrich the broth, creating a deep and satisfying flavor. Ladle generously into bowls to serve. This Dotari Sookguk offers a wonderful harmony of the fresh, herbaceous mugwort and the rich, savory taste of the jewelfish, making it a perfect spring dish and a delightful accompaniment to any meal!
