Creamy Tofu Doenjangjang (Fermented Soybean Paste Stew)
Fridge Clean-out! Easy and Creamy Tofu Doenjangjang Recipe
Thinking of a quick and easy side dish, I decided to use up some ingredients from my fridge to make this thick yet surprisingly creamy Tofu Doenjangjang, thanks to the added tofu. It’s perfect for mixing with rice!
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 block firm tofu
- 1 potato (optional)
- 1 onion
- 1 green onion (optional)
- 1 shiitake mushroom (optional)
- 2 cube stock (e.g., anchovy or vegetable)
- 1 Tbsp ssamjang (spicy fermented soybean paste)
- 1/2 Tbsp homemade doenjang (fermented soybean paste)
- 1 Tbsp store-bought doenjang (fermented soybean paste)
- 1 Tbsp cooking wine (mirin or sake)
- 2 Tbsp perilla oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the vegetables for the doenjangjang. Onion is essential for flavor, but mushrooms, potatoes, and green onions can be omitted based on your preference.
Step 2
Using store-bought cube stock is incredibly convenient as it eliminates the need to make broth separately. It saves space in the freezer that would otherwise be used for anchovies or other stock ingredients.
Step 3
To create a delicious doenjangjang, we’ll be mixing three types of paste: ssamjang, homemade doenjang, and store-bought doenjang.
Step 4
Mash half a block of tofu thoroughly using the back of a knife or a fork until it’s smooth and lump-free.
Step 5
Dice all the prepared vegetables very finely. This ensures a pleasant texture when the doenjangjang is cooked.
Step 6
Heat 2 tablespoons of perilla oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the finely chopped vegetables until fragrant. If the mixture seems too dry and starts to stick, add a tiny bit of water to prevent burning.
Step 7
Once the vegetables are somewhat translucent and tender, add all three types of paste (ssamjang, homemade doenjang, and store-bought doenjang) and stir-fry them together. Again, add a little water if needed to prevent sticking.
Step 8
Now, add the 2 cube stock pieces and stir them in with the pastes, allowing them to dissolve and infuse the mixture with flavor.
Step 9
Add 1 tablespoon of cooking wine to eliminate any unwanted odors and enhance the savory notes.
Step 10
Adjust the consistency of the doenjangjang by gradually adding water to your liking. Be mindful not to add too much water initially, as the vegetables will release their own moisture. Once the doenjangjang reaches your desired thickness, stir in the mashed tofu.
Step 11
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil after adding the tofu. Once it simmers for a moment, your delicious Tofu Doenjangjang is ready!
Step 12
Serve a generous spoonful over warm rice and mix it well. Adding a piece of kimchi on top makes for an incredibly satisfying meal!
Step 13
Why not enjoy a simple yet hearty meal with this Tofu Doenjangjang for dinner tonight?
