Fragrant Spring Vegetable Doenjang Jjigae (Korean Soybean Paste Stew)
A Taste of Spring: How to Make Delicious Chive Doenjang Jjigae with Fresh Spring Greens
This recipe brings the vibrant aroma of spring to your kitchen with a hearty doenjang jjigae made with fresh chives. Foraged chives offer a distinctively richer flavor and scent compared to those available year-round. This deeply flavorful stew is perfect for warming you up on cooler days and stimulating your appetite. Let’s learn how to make it easily and in detail!
Main Ingredients
- Fresh chives: 2 large handfuls (trimmed and washed thoroughly)
- Firm tofu: 1/2 block (cut into cubes)
- Shiitake mushrooms: 5 mushrooms (stems removed, thinly sliced)
- Radish: 1 small piece (thinly sliced, about 5cm long)
- Homemade doenjang (soybean paste): 2 Tbsp
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste): 1 Tbsp
- Korean green chili peppers: 2 (finely chopped)
- Scallions: 1 segment (finely chopped)
- Minced garlic: 1 Tbsp
- Anchovy and kelp broth: 5-6 cups (or rice water)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the chives by removing any wilted outer leaves and washing them thoroughly. Let any excess water drain off.
Step 2
In a pot, add the thinly sliced radish. Dissolve the 2 Tbsp of doenjang and 1 Tbsp of gochujang into the pot. Add the finely chopped Korean green chili peppers for a spicy kick. (You can also use dried or red chilies if you prefer.)
Step 3
Pour in 5 cups of anchovy and kelp broth and bring to a boil over high heat. Once the broth is boiling, add the sliced shiitake mushrooms and simmer together. The umami from the shiitake will enhance the soup’s flavor.
Step 4
When the radish becomes translucent and tender, add the prepared chives and cubed tofu. Stir in 1 Tbsp of minced garlic. If the broth lacks depth, add a little fish sauce or tuna extract for extra umami. If the stew has become too thick, add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5
Finally, add the chopped scallions and simmer for another minute to finish. Your delicious chive doenjang jjigae is ready! Enjoy it with a warm bowl of rice.
