Rich and Hearty Beef and Perilla Seed Siraegi Doenjang Guk (Radish Greens Soybean Paste Stew)
Rich and Hearty Beef and Perilla Seed Siraegi Doenjang Guk (Radish Greens Soybean Paste Stew)
How to Make Delicious Beef Siraegi Doenjang Guk with Nutritious Radish Greens, a Flavorful and Satisfying Stew
As the weekend approaches and the refrigerator starts to look bare, a pot of warm stew on the stove brings a sense of comfort. I decided to make a hearty Siraegi Doenjang Guk using radish greens gifted by my mother and tender beef. While I usually prefer a simpler, milder version, adding beef this time resulted in a richer, more luxurious stew. This steaming bowl of soup is enough for a satisfying meal, even without a spread of side dishes. The combination of beef’s umami, the savory depth of doenjang (soybean paste), and the nutty aroma of perilla seeds creates an explosion of flavor. Let me guide you through making this incredibly delicious Beef and Perilla Seed Siraegi Doenjang Guk!
Ingredients- 400g dried radish greens (siraegi)
- 500g beef for stew
- 4 Tbsp sesame oil
- 3 Tbsp doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 4 Tbsp ground perilla seeds
- Pinch of salt
- 2L anchovy and kelp broth
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
This recipe yields a generous amount, suitable for 4 servings. If you prefer to make it for 2 servings, please halve all the ingredient quantities. First, you’ll need to prepare the anchovy and kelp broth, which forms the flavorful base of the stew. You can make this from scratch by simmering dried anchovies and kelp, or for convenience, use readily available broth packets or liquid concentrates. It’s crucial to use broth rather than plain water to achieve a deeper, richer taste.
Step 2
The dried radish greens were conveniently prepared by my mother for immediate cooking. Give them a quick rinse under running water and then squeeze out any excess moisture thoroughly. Next, add 3 tablespoons of doenjang to the radish greens and gently knead them together. This process allows the doenjang’s savory flavor to deeply penetrate the greens, enhancing the overall taste of the stew.
Step 3
For the beef, it’s best to use cuts suitable for stewing. Use paper towels to carefully pat and remove any blood from the beef. Removing the blood will result in a clearer broth and a cleaner taste, minimizing any gamey odors.
Step 4
Heat 4 tablespoons of sesame oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and stir-fry until it’s no longer pink and the blood has evaporated. Once the beef is lightly browned, pour in the 2 liters of prepared anchovy and kelp broth.
Step 5
Bring the broth to a rolling boil over high heat. As the stew boils, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface will contribute to a cleaner, more refined broth flavor.
Step 6
Once the broth is boiling vigorously, add the radish greens that were coated with doenjang. Continue to simmer the stew over medium heat, allowing the radish greens to soften and cook through, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
Step 7
Now, add 4 tablespoons of ground perilla seeds to further enhance the stew’s flavor. The ground perilla seeds will lend a rich, nutty creaminess to the broth and help to balance and deepen the taste. Stir well to incorporate them evenly.
Step 8
Finally, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed, according to your preference. Once all the ingredients are well combined and the flavors have melded, turn off the heat. Your Beef and Perilla Seed Siraegi Doenjang Guk is ready! (Tip: While my family doesn’t add green onions to our Siraegi Guk, feel free to add chopped scallions or the white parts of leeks if you enjoy them.)
Step 9
Behold, the delicious Beef and Perilla Seed Siraegi Doenjang Guk is complete! With plenty of beef added, this Siraegi Guk boasts a rich, savory flavor that will make your meal truly special.
Step 10
Imagine spooning this hearty stew over a bowl of warm rice, perhaps with a side of kimchi – it’s pure comfort food! This satisfying Siraegi Guk is surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s not spicy, making it an excellent choice for children. Did you know that radish greens are packed with nutrients? Beyond the well-known vitamins, they are rich in calcium and minerals, beneficial for bone development in children and preventing osteoporosis in menopausal women. They also provide ample minerals and dietary fiber, and are even said to help detoxify the liver from alcohol consumption. Enjoy this delicious meal that nourishes your body!
