Aromatic Winter Cress and Soft Tofu Doenjang Stew
Aromatic Winter Cress and Soft Tofu Doenjang Stew
Chef Baek Jong-won’s Recipe: How to Make a Simple and Delicious Morning Stew with Winter Cress and Tofu using Rice Water
Let’s try making a hearty doenjang (fermented soybean paste) stew using seasonal winter cress, bursting with springtime fragrance.
Ingredients- Plenty of fresh winter cress (namul)
- Rice water (approx. 800ml)
- Doenjang (Korean fermented soybean paste) (2 Tbsp)
- Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) (1 Tbsp)
- Guk-ganjang (soup soy sauce) or regular soy sauce (1 Tbsp)
- Minced garlic (1 tsp)
- Half a block of firm or silken tofu
- A handful of green onions (chopped)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
We’re about to make a delicious doenjang stew using seasonal winter cress, packed with the aroma of spring. Get ready for a delightful culinary experience!
Step 2
First, prepare the rice water. Rinse the rice water leftover from cooking rice about 3 to 4 times. This will make the broth smoother and richer. Aim for about 800ml.
Step 3
Now, let’s make the seasoning for our doenjang stew. In a pot or saucepan, combine 2 Tbsp of doenjang, 1 Tbsp of gochugaru, 1 Tbsp of guk-ganjang (or regular soy sauce), and 1 tsp of minced garlic. Add a little rice water or cold water to dissolve the paste smoothly. This creates a clear and savory broth base.
Step 4
Add the thoroughly washed and cleaned fresh winter cress to the seasoned rice water. The fragrant aroma of the winter cress will gently infuse the broth, bringing the essence of spring into your kitchen.
Step 5
Next, add the tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces, for a soft texture. If you prefer an even creamier and richer taste, silken tofu works wonderfully here.
Step 6
Finally, add a generous amount of chopped green onions. Bring the stew to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low heat and simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 7
And there you have it! Your delicious winter cress and tofu doenjang stew, brimming with the fragrance of spring, is ready. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish with a warm bowl of rice. Bon appétit!
