Warm and Savory Napa Cabbage and Tofu Doenjang Soup
Easy and Delicious Napa Cabbage and Tofu Doenjang Soup Recipe
Learn how to easily make a clear, savory, and comforting Napa Cabbage and Tofu Doenjang Soup at home. The harmony of tender cabbage and mild tofu is exquisite.
Main Ingredients
- Napa Cabbage (or young Napa cabbage) 310g (washed thoroughly)
- Firm Tofu 200g (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Broth Ingredients
- Dried Anchovies for broth 1 handful (removing guts results in a cleaner taste)
Seasoning Ingredients
- Doenjang (Korean fermented soybean paste) 5 Tbsp (adjust amount based on saltiness)
- Minced Garlic 1 Tbsp (freshly minced garlic enhances the aroma)
- Dried Anchovies for broth 1 handful (removing guts results in a cleaner taste)
Seasoning Ingredients
- Doenjang (Korean fermented soybean paste) 5 Tbsp (adjust amount based on saltiness)
- Minced Garlic 1 Tbsp (freshly minced garlic enhances the aroma)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Pour 1800ml (about 9 cups) of water into a pot. Add 1 handful of dried anchovies (with guts removed for a cleaner taste) and simmer for about 5 minutes to create an anchovy broth. Strain and discard the anchovies. This step is crucial for a clear and deep-flavored broth.
Step 2
Wash the Napa cabbage thoroughly. Cut the leaves into rough, bite-sized pieces. Slightly larger pieces provide a better texture when eaten.
Step 3
Cut the tofu into cubes of about 1.5cm thickness, or into half-moons, as preferred. Handle gently to prevent crumbling.
Step 4
Dissolve 5 Tbsp of doenjang into the anchovy broth. You can use a sieve to help break it up, or mash it thoroughly with a ladle to ensure no clumps remain. Once the doenjang is dissolved, add the chopped Napa cabbage and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Cook until the cabbage becomes tender. Once the soup starts to bubble vigorously, reduce the heat slightly.
Step 5
When the cabbage is tender, carefully add the cut tofu to the pot.
Step 6
Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until both the tofu and cabbage are fully cooked and tender. Finally, stir in 1 Tbsp of minced garlic and let it simmer for a moment longer. Your delicious and savory Napa Cabbage and Tofu Doenjang Soup is ready! For a touch of spice, you can add a small amount of Korean green chili or red chili pepper.
