Refreshing Clam Noodle Soup (Bajirak Kalguksu)
Refreshing Clam Noodle Soup (Bajirak Kalguksu)
How to Make a Clean and Delicious Clam Noodle Soup at Home
Discover the perfect recipe for a refreshing and flavorful clam noodle soup, ideal for using up leftover noodles. This dish combines the savory depth of fresh clams with chewy noodles in a clean, invigorating broth. We’ll guide you through each step to achieve a restaurant-quality taste right in your own kitchen. Gather your loved ones and enjoy this hearty meal!
Main Ingredients- Fresh Kalguksu noodles for 3 servings (approx. 300-350g)
- Fresh clams 200g
- 1/2 Zucchini
- 1/3 Carrot
- 1/2 Onion
- 6 pieces Dried kelp (about 10×10 cm each)
- 1 handful Dried anchovies (for broth, heads and guts removed)
- 1 handful Dried shrimp (heads and shells removed)
- 2 Tbsp Fish sauce
- 1/2 Scallion
- Pinch of black pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the foundation of our delicious clam noodle soup: the broth. In a pot, add 8-9 cups (about 1.5 liters) of water. Add 1 handful of dried anchovies (heads and guts removed for a cleaner taste), 1 handful of dried shrimp (with heads and shells removed), and 6 pieces of dried kelp. Bring this mixture to a boil.
Step 2
While the broth is simmering, let’s get our vegetables ready. Thinly julienne 1/3 carrot and 1/2 onion. Slice the zucchini into half-moon shapes; this cut helps keep the broth clear and visually appealing.
Step 3
Prepare the clams thoroughly. If they are already purged of sand, simply rinse them under running water to remove any dirt. If they are not purged, soak them in salt water for at least 30 minutes (preferably an hour) to let them spit out any sand. After purging, scrub the shells well under running water.
Step 4
Once the broth comes to a boil, simmer for about 5 minutes, then carefully remove and discard all the kelp pieces. Over-boiling kelp can result in a bitter taste. Continue to simmer the broth on medium-low heat for another 10 minutes to extract a rich flavor.
Step 5
Add the julienned carrots, onions, and sliced zucchini to the strained broth. Stir in 2 tablespoons of fish sauce for a savory umami boost. Finally, add a pinch of black pepper; it significantly enhances the soup’s flavor. Sprinkle it in generously! (You can also add 1/2 tablespoon of minced garlic at this stage if you like).
Step 6
For an exceptionally clean broth, it’s recommended to blanch the noodles separately before adding them to the soup. Bring a separate pot of water to a rolling boil and add 3 servings of kalguksu noodles. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking together.
Step 7
Drain the blanched noodles using a colander and immediately add them to the simmering broth. Then, add the thoroughly washed clams to the pot. As the clams cook, they will open and release their natural, delicious juices into the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.
Step 8
Finally, garnish with the chopped scallion (1/2). Give it one last quick boil, and your delightful clam noodle soup is ready! (For a spicier kick, feel free to add sliced green or red chili peppers). Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting, flavorful meal!
