Savory Doenjang Bibim Guksu (Korean Soybean Paste Noodles)
Savory Doenjang Bibim Guksu (Korean Soybean Paste Noodles)
A Rich and Savory Twist on Bibim Guksu with Doenjang
Tired of the usual spicy bibim guksu? Discover a delightful change with this Doenjang Bibim Guksu! Instead of fiery chili paste, this recipe uses the deep, savory umami of doenjang (Korean soybean paste) for a wonderfully flavorful and comforting noodle dish. It’s a unique and satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Main Ingredients- Somen noodles: 1 serving (approx. 100-120g)
- Perilla leaves (깻잎): 2 leaves
- Sesame seeds: A pinch (for garnish)
- Red chili pepper: 1 (for garnish)
Doenjang Sauce (Seasoning)- Doenjang (Korean soybean paste): 1 Tbsp (heaping)
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste): 1/2 Tbsp (adjust for spice level)
- Soy sauce: 1 Tbsp
- Oligosaccharide or corn syrup: 1 Tbsp (for gloss and sweetness)
- Sugar: 1/2 Tbsp (adjust sweetness)
- Sesame oil: 1 Tbsp (for nutty aroma)
- Minced garlic: 1/2 tsp (adjust to taste)
- Doenjang (Korean soybean paste): 1 Tbsp (heaping)
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste): 1/2 Tbsp (adjust for spice level)
- Soy sauce: 1 Tbsp
- Oligosaccharide or corn syrup: 1 Tbsp (for gloss and sweetness)
- Sugar: 1/2 Tbsp (adjust sweetness)
- Sesame oil: 1 Tbsp (for nutty aroma)
- Minced garlic: 1/2 tsp (adjust to taste)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the somen noodles and cook according to the package instructions. It’s helpful to stir the noodles occasionally to prevent them from sticking together. Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and immediately rinse them under cold running water to remove excess starch. Drain thoroughly; this step ensures the noodles remain delightfully chewy and firm.
Step 2
Wash the perilla leaves and pat them dry. Stack them, roll them up tightly, and thinly slice them into fine strips. Finely slice the red chili pepper. Removing the seeds will make it less spicy and enhance the visual appeal. Set aside the prepared perilla and chili pepper.
Step 3
In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the Doenjang sauce: doenjang, gochujang, soy sauce, oligosaccharide (or corn syrup), sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Mix thoroughly with a spoon until you achieve a smooth, well-blended sauce. You can adjust the ratio of doenjang to gochujang to suit your preference for saltiness and spice. Once combined, the sauce is ready.
Step 4
Add about two-thirds of the prepared Doenjang sauce to the well-drained noodles. Gently toss and mix the noodles with the sauce, ensuring every strand is evenly coated. It’s recommended to start with less sauce and add more as needed after tasting, to avoid making the noodles too salty. Mix carefully until the sauce is well distributed.
Step 5
Transfer the sauced noodles to a serving bowl. Generously top with the thinly sliced perilla leaves and red chili pepper. Finally, sprinkle with sesame seeds for an extra nutty fragrance and visual appeal. Your delicious and unique Doenjang Bibim Guksu is now ready to be enjoyed!
