Savory and Sweet Braised Beef: A Classic Korean Side Dish
Savory and Sweet Braised Beef: A Classic Korean Side Dish
How to Make Delicious Korean Braised Beef (Jangjorim)
Discover the secrets to making Jangjorim, a beloved Korean side dish that’s perfect for kids and a staple in any household. This recipe breaks down how to achieve tender beef with a rich, savory-sweet flavor. Let’s get started!
Main Ingredients- 500g Beef for Jangjorim (e.g., Eye of Round or Brisket)
- 6 cloves whole garlic
- 2 red chilies
- 2 green chilies
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Let’s begin making Jangjorim, a universally loved Korean comfort food!
Step 2
First, soak the beef in cold water for about 20 minutes to remove any excess blood. This step is crucial for a clean, less gamey flavor. After draining, blanch the beef in boiling water for a minute or two. This helps to further purify the meat and remove any impurities.
Step 3
Slice the blanched beef into pieces about the width of your finger. It’s best to cut them slightly thicker than you think, following the grain, as they will shrink and be easier to shred later.
Step 4
Place the sliced beef, whole garlic cloves, and 1.5 cups of water into a pot. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 20-30 minutes, or until the beef is tender enough to shred easily. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface during cooking. Once tender, remove the beef and rinse it under cold water to cool down and firm up its texture. (Optional: a brief ‘cold shower’ helps maintain a pleasant chew.)
Step 5
Once the beef has cooled slightly, use your hands to shred it along the grain into bite-sized pieces. Shredding it by hand allows the braising liquid to penetrate better, resulting in more flavorful beef.
Step 6
Now, let’s prepare the braising liquid. In a clean pot, combine 1.5 cups of water, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 3 tablespoons of oligodang (or corn syrup), and a pinch of black pepper. Stir well to combine. You can adjust the sweetness and saltiness to your preference, especially if making it for children.
Step 7
Add the shredded beef and whole garlic cloves to the braising liquid. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat and let it braise, stirring occasionally, until the beef absorbs the flavors and the sauce reduces. Cooking the garlic along with the beef infuses a wonderful aroma.
Step 8
Once the sauce has thickened slightly and the beef has taken on a rich color, add the prepared red and green chilies. Continue to simmer for another 1-2 minutes. Adding the chilies at the end preserves their vibrant color and prevents them from becoming mushy. Their mild heat and color add visual appeal and a hint of freshness.
Step 9
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (more soy sauce for saltiness, more oligodang for sweetness). Continue to simmer until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Your delicious Braised Beef Jangjorim is now ready to be enjoyed with a warm bowl of rice!
