Refreshing Clam Noodle Soup (Kal-guksu) with Fresh Sea Clams
Refreshing Clam Noodle Soup (Kal-guksu) with Fresh Sea Clams
How to Prepare and Cook Delicious Sea Clam Kal-guksu: A Simple Recipe for Beginners
Discover the refreshing taste of fresh sea clams in this easy Kal-guksu (noodle soup) recipe. We’ll guide you through the simple process of purging clams and cooking a delicious bowl that’s perfect for a getaway, like at a pension.
Main Ingredients- 1kg fresh sea clams
- 1 handful of chives or green onions
- 2 servings of Kal-guksu noodles
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Purging the clams properly is the first step to a delicious noodle soup. Rinse the clams under cold water to remove any surface dirt. Then, place them in a wide bowl and cover with saltwater that mimics seawater (about 30g of salt per 1 liter of water). Adding a spoon or a few coins to the water can encourage the clams to expel more sand. Let them purge in a dark place for 30 minutes to 1 hour, changing the water two to three times for best results. (At a pension, you can also fill an icebox with seawater, place some pebbles at the bottom to create a raised area, and put the clams in.)
Step 2
After purging, rinse the clams thoroughly under running water. Now, let’s make the delicious broth! Pour 1.5 liters of water into a pot. Add the kelp and dried anchovies and bring to a boil. (Remove the kelp once the water boils, and take out the anchovies after about 10 minutes of simmering for a cleaner broth.)
Step 3
Once the broth has developed flavor, add the purged clams and bring to a boil over high heat. As the clams begin to open, skim off any foam. Add 1 tablespoon of soup soy sauce and 1/2 tablespoon of minced garlic for added umami. Be careful not to overcook the clams, as they can become tough. Cook just until they open. (About 5 minutes should be sufficient.)
Step 4
When all the clams have opened and the broth is nicely flavored, add the Kal-guksu noodles and cook. Gently stir the noodles to prevent them from sticking together. While the noodles are cooking, prepare your chopped green onions or chives, and thinly sliced red and green chili peppers. (These are optional, but the chili peppers add a delightful spicy kick and freshness.)
Step 5
Just before turning off the heat, add the prepared vegetables and a pinch of black pepper. Adjust the seasoning with salt to your preference. It’s best to use minimal salt to preserve the natural, refreshing taste of the sea. Turn off the heat and cover the pot for a moment to let the vegetables steam slightly. Your simple yet delicious Kal-guksu, highlighting the fresh flavor of the sea clams, is now ready to enjoy!
