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