Spicy Gochujang Tofu Stew: ‘Uncle’s Special’ Recipe
Spicy Gochujang Tofu Stew: ‘Uncle’s Special’ Recipe
Heukbaek Chef’s Tofu Delight: Gochujang Tofu Stew Recipe from the ‘Uncle’s Special’ Menu
A deeply flavorful ‘Uncle’s Special’ style tofu stew, featuring a rich and delicious gochujang-based broth. Perfect for a comforting meal!
Main Ingredients- 1 block (approx. 500g) firm tofu
- 1 Korean green chili pepper (Cheongyang chili)
- 1 stalk green onion (white part: 10~15cm)
- 1 stalk green onion (green part: 5cm, for garnish)
- 300ml water
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the aromatics and chili for the stew’s flavor base. Finely slice the white part of the green onion to release its fragrance when sautéed. Thinly slice the green part of the other green onion and the Korean green chili pepper crosswise; these will be used as a fresh garnish at the end. One chili pepper provides a good level of spice, but feel free to add more if you prefer a spicier stew.
Step 2
Cut the tofu into large, thick pieces suitable for stew. This recipe uses one 500g block of tofu, which is more than enough for two people to enjoy.
Step 3
To build the stew’s foundation, heat 4 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pot over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced white parts of the green onion and sauté until fragrant and slightly softened, allowing their natural sweetness to infuse the oil. This creates a fragrant ‘scallion oil’.
Step 4
Once the green onions are fragrant, reduce the heat to low. Add 1 heaped tablespoon of gochugaru, 1 heaped tablespoon of gochujang, and 1 flat tablespoon of minced garlic. Stir constantly and gently cook these ingredients for about a minute to create a flavorful chili oil base. Be careful not to burn the paste and flakes; low heat is key here.
Step 5
Pour 300ml of water into the pot with the sautéed paste mixture. Increase the heat to high and bring the broth to a rolling boil. This amount of water creates a perfectly balanced broth consistency for dipping.
Step 6
Once the broth is boiling, carefully arrange the thick tofu pieces along the sides of the pot. Then, using a spoon, ladle some of the hot broth and seasonings over the top of the tofu pieces. Since the water level might not fully submerge the tofu, spooning the broth over them helps the flavors penetrate evenly.
Step 7
Now, season the stew. Add 1 tablespoon of fish sauce (or similar savory liquid) and taste the broth. If it needs more saltiness or depth, add Korean soup soy sauce or a pinch of salt until it reaches your desired flavor. Season gradually, tasting as you go.
Step 8
Finally, garnish the stew with the sliced green parts of the green onion and the chopped Korean green chili pepper. Sprinkle a pinch of black pepper over the top. Let it simmer for another 1-2 minutes to allow the fresh aromatics to meld with the stew. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious and comforting Gochujang Tofu Stew!
