Wednesday, April 16, 2025

SUNDUBU JJIGAE – A Cozy, Authentic Korean Stew You Can Make at Home!

Photo credit: https://travelandmunchies.com/sundubu-jjigae-korean-spicy-soft-tofu-stew/

Cold weather? Rainy day? Or just craving something spicy and comforting? Sundubu Jjigae, also known as Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Stew, is the answer! This recipe is not only super delicious, but it’s also really easy to make in your own kitchen—no need to hop on a flight to Seoul!

I’ve adapted this version slightly so the ingredients are easy to find locally, but it still keeps that authentic, bold Korean flavor we all love.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–5 hungry people):

5 cloves of garlic (pounded or minced)
1 large onion (sliced)
5 tbsp cooking oil
1 tbsp sesame oil
3–4 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste — or use blended dried chilies if you don’t have it)
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tbsp sweet soy sauce
2 tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes — or packet chili powder as a substitute)
Chicken or beef – up to you!
½ cube anchovy stock (or any stock cube for extra umami)
1 egg
Enoki mushrooms (or any mushroom you like)
Soft tofu (the star of the dish!)
Spring onions
Kimchi & a bit of its juice (optional, but so good!)
Water – enough to make it a stew
Salt and sugar to taste

🍲 Let’s Cook! Step-by-Step:

1. Start With the Flavor Base
Heat up your cooking oil and sauté the sliced onion and garlic until fragrant. Add in the Gochujang and Gochugaru (or your chili substitutes). Let that mix sizzle and fill your kitchen with spicy goodness!


2. Add Kimchi & Its Juices
A little kimchi and some of the brine gives it that authentic tangy flavor. It’s optional but highly recommended.


3. Time for Protein
Throw in your chicken or beef. Stir it around so the meat soaks up all that flavor.


4. Add the Sauces & Stock
Now mix in the oyster sauce, fish sauce, sweet soy sauce, sesame oil, and that anchovy stock cube. Stir until everything’s looking glossy and coated.


5. Add Water & Seasoning
Pour in water to turn it into a stew. Let it come to a boil, then season with salt and sugar to balance the flavors.


6. Drop in an Egg
Crack an egg into the bubbling stew. You can leave it whole to keep the yolk runny or stir it in—your call!


7. Mushroom Time
Toss in the mushrooms and let them soften for a minute or two.


8. Gently Add the Soft Tofu
This is the heart of the dish—soft, silky tofu. Add it in carefully so it doesn’t break apart too much.


9. Top It Off With Spring Onions
Just before serving, sprinkle chopped spring onions for that final touch of freshness and color.

✨ Done! Serve Hot with Steamed Rice and Enjoy Every Spicy Spoonful

Photo credit: https://travelandmunchies.com/sundubu-jjigae-korean-spicy-soft-tofu-stew/

This Sundubu Jjigae is the ultimate comfort food—warm, spicy, and full of flavor. If you have a Korean-style stone pot, serve it in that for extra flair, but even a regular bowl works just fine.

Try it once, and you’ll be hooked! Perfect for cozy nights, family dinners, or anytime you need a little Korean heat in your life 🔥

Tried this recipe? Tag me at @alizasara on Instagram or Tiktok—I’d love to see your spicy creations!

Thursday, April 3, 2025

Hikayat Ayam Zamrud at The Chicken Rice Shop – A Must-Try Festive Delight!


Have you had the chance to try Hikayat Ayam Zamrud yet? This Ramadan and Raya, The Chicken Rice Shop (TCRS) introduces a dish that’s bound to tantalize your taste buds! Picture crispy, golden-fried chicken paired with an aromatic sambal hijau—a bold combination of spicy green chilies, fragrant herbs, and zesty lime. It’s a flavor-packed experience you won’t want to miss!
A Taste of Festivity on Your Plate


This year, TCRS brings the festive spirit to life with Hikayat Ayam Zamrud, a dish that embodies the vibrancy and richness of Raya. Each bite bursts with a delightful mix of flavors—spicy, tangy, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re breaking fast with family or enjoying a get-together with friends, this dish promises to make every meal feel special.
Options for Everyone


Hikayat Ayam Zamrud is available in three different set options to cater to various group sizes:


Pada Satu Hari – Perfect for solo diners (set for 1)
Dua Sejoli – Ideal for pairs (set for 2)
Sekampung Mari – Great for sharing with family and friends (set for 4)

To elevate your meal, don’t forget to try the Lagenda Kurma drink—a sweet, refreshing date-infused beverage that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the dish.
Spreading Joy Beyond the Table


More than just serving great food, TCRS is embracing the true meaning of Ramadan by giving back to the community. Through a special food donation drive, they have delivered nourishing Hikayat Ayam Zamrud meals to three orphanages in Klang Valley: Rumah Anak-Anak Yatim Shifa, Rumah Penyayang Nur Iman, and Rumah Titian Kaseh. By sharing the joy of a hearty meal, TCRS hopes to spread kindness and ensure that everyone gets to experience the warmth of the festive season.
Celebrate Raya with a Feast to Remember


Whether you’re gathering for buka puasa, celebrating Raya with loved ones, or simply looking for a satisfying meal, Hikayat Ayam Zamrud is a fantastic choice. But hurry—this special festive dish is only available for a limited time!

For more details on Hikayat Ayam Zamrud and other menu offerings, visit www.thechickenriceshop.com or check out their official Facebook page: The Chicken Rice Shop.