Hearty and Comforting Soybean Paste Stew (Doenjang Jjigae)
Hearty and Comforting Soybean Paste Stew (Doenjang Jjigae)
Super Simple Doenjang Jjigae Recipe: Perfect for Solo Living and a Harmony with Freshly Cooked Rice!
I’m back in your kitchen after a while! I often get so focused on cooking that I forget to take photos. With prices rising and incomes stagnant, I’ve been cooking at home more often. Today, I’ll share a recipe for a comforting and savory Doenjang Jjigae that’s easy enough for anyone living alone to make! I’ll also include tips on how to store leftover ingredients to keep them fresh, because we’re all savvy savers in this economy! I hope this helps you immensely. Enjoy your delicious home-cooked meal!
Essential Ingredients- Rice Water (3 cups)
- 1/3 Zucchini
- 1/2 Onion
- 1/2 block Firm Tofu
- A handful of Oyster Mushrooms
- 2 Tbsp Doenjang (Soybean Paste)
- 1 Tbsp Ssamjang (Spicy Soybean Paste)
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- Pinch of Gochugaru (Red Pepper Flakes)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Here’s a secret to a deeply flavorful Doenjang Jjigae! Try mixing Doenjang and Ssamjang in a 2:1 ratio. Ssamjang helps to cut through the richness of the Doenjang and adds a savory umami boost. Add about 1 tablespoon of minced garlic for a pungent kick. This golden ratio will lay a solid foundation for a delicious stew!
Step 2
If making broth from scratch is too time-consuming on busy days, reach for the comforting rice water! The milky water obtained after rinsing rice twice will make your stew broth smooth and rich. While it might not be a huge difference to some, it certainly adds more depth than plain water, making it an excellent broth alternative for those living alone!
Step 3
Chop all your ingredients into bite-sized pieces. It’s wise to prep your vegetables in advance, especially if you can’t easily shop at the supermarket on weekdays. Onions can be stored in a mesh bag to stay fresh longer. For zucchini, tofu, and mushrooms, chop them into similar sizes, portion them, and store them in the freezer. This way, you can use them fresh whenever you cook. It prevents food waste and significantly cuts down on cooking time, making meal prep incredibly convenient!
Step 4
Place these prepped vegetables into airtight containers or freezer bags and store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to cook, simply add them directly to the pot! This makes cooking so much easier. With rising food costs making dining out a strain, enjoying a hearty homemade meal is the best option. Practicing mindful saving is so important these days.
Step 5
Pour the prepared rice water into a pot and dissolve the Doenjang and Ssamjang, bringing it to a simmer. (If you like radish, slice and add it now!) Once the Doenjang broth is boiling, add your prepped vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms, and let it simmer further. Once all the ingredients are cooked through and the broth has thickened slightly, your delicious Doenjang Jjigae is ready! Serve it hot with a bowl of freshly cooked rice.
