Spicy and Sweet Dubu Duruchigi (Braised Tofu)
Spicy and Sweet Dubu Duruchigi (Braised Tofu)
Discover the Delicious Dubu Duruchigi from Daejeon – A True Rice Thief!
Hello, everyone! Today, I’m excited to introduce you to a special tofu dish called ‘Dubu Duruchigi.’ I heard it’s a famous local specialty in Daejeon! I actually didn’t even know this dish existed until I saw Lee Young-ja deliciously enjoying it on the TV show ‘Omniscient Interfering View.’ My husband knew about it too, so I decided to make it myself! This Dubu Duruchigi, with its appetizing spicy and sweet sauce, tender tofu, and satisfying ingredients, is so incredibly delicious that it’ll have you clearing your plate in no time. Let me guide you through this amazing recipe step-by-step!
Main Ingredients- 1 block Firm Tofu (for pan-frying)
- 2 handfuls Green Onions
- 1/2 Onion
- Thinly Sliced Pork Belly (optional, for extra flavor!)
- 2 Shiitake Mushrooms
- 1 Spicy Green Chili Pepper
- 3 bowls Anchovy Broth
Spicy & Sweet Sauce- 3 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 3 Tbsp Soy Sauce (Guk-ganjang or regular)
- 1.5 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp Oligodang (corn syrup or rice syrup)
- 1 Tbsp Fish Sauce (anchovy)
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1 Tbsp Minced Green Onion
- Salt (to taste)
- 3 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 3 Tbsp Soy Sauce (Guk-ganjang or regular)
- 1.5 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp Oligodang (corn syrup or rice syrup)
- 1 Tbsp Fish Sauce (anchovy)
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1 Tbsp Minced Green Onion
- Salt (to taste)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the base for our delicious dish: the broth. In a pot, pour 3 bowls (about 600ml) of water. Add dried anchovies and kelp, and simmer to create a flavorful anchovy broth. Since making the broth takes the most time, it’s best to do this step first. Once the broth is ready, strain out the solids, leaving behind a clear broth.
Step 2
Now, let’s make the spicy and sweet sauce that will define the flavor of our Dubu Duruchigi. In a bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of gochugaru and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic.
Step 3
Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil for a nutty aroma and 1 tablespoon of fish sauce for umami depth.
Step 4
Next, add 2 tablespoons of oligosaccharide for sweetness and 3 tablespoons of soy sauce for a rich flavor.
Step 5
To bring in the spiciness, add 1.5 tablespoons of gochujang. Finally, add 1 tablespoon of minced green onion for a fresh kick. (You can use pre-minced green onions here too!)
Step 6
Mix all the sauce ingredients thoroughly until well combined, creating our delicious sauce. For the best flavor, it’s recommended to let this sauce rest and mature for at least 30 minutes to an hour in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I always let my sauces mature a bit before using them; it makes a noticeable difference!
Step 7
Now, let’s prepare the vegetables. Shiitake mushrooms are optional but highly recommended for their great aroma and texture. Clean 2 shiitake mushrooms under running water and slice them thinly. Peel and thinly slice half an onion into strips about 0.5cm thick.
Step 8
Cut the block of firm tofu (1 block) into substantial, bite-sized pieces, about 2cm thick – not too thin. Arrange the tofu pieces neatly at the bottom of a pot. Using firm tofu meant for pan-frying helps it hold its shape better after cooking.
Step 9
Layer the sliced onions and shiitake mushrooms evenly over the tofu. Then, add your desired amount of thinly sliced pork belly on top. This addition of meat will enhance the dish with its rich flavor, making your Dubu Duruchigi even more satisfying. (Traditionally, meat isn’t included, but I find it adds a wonderful depth!)
Step 10
Pour all of the prepared and matured sauce over the tofu, vegetables, and meat. Then, pour in all 3 bowls of the prepared anchovy broth. Bring it to a boil over high heat. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly. You’ll smell the wonderful aroma as the flavors infuse into the ingredients.
Step 11
When the sauce has thickened and the ingredients are cooked through, add the 2 handfuls of green onions, sliced diagonally, and 1 spicy green chili pepper, also sliced diagonally, for extra aroma and a hint of heat. Simmer for a few more minutes, then taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed. And there you have it – your delicious, spicy, and sweet Dubu Duruchigi is ready! Serve it over hot rice for an incredibly satisfying meal!
