Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup (Soondubu Jjigae)

Step 1

Prepare the dried anchovies. Remove the large anchovy guts by opening the belly and scraping them out, but leave the heads on. The guts tend to make the broth bitter, especially with the larger anchovies.

Step 2

Prepare the and dried kelp (dashima). Gently wipe the dried kelp with a lightly dampened cloth to remove any sand or grit. Make sure to keep the white powder (mannitol) on for added flavor.

Step 3

Boil and simmer. In a small sauce pan, add the water, dried anchovies and dried kelp. Bring it to a gentle boil, uncovered. Reduce the heat to medium high, and boil for 10 minutes. Then remove the kelp and simmer the anchovies for an additional 10 minutes on low heat. Using a cheesecloth, strain the liquid to remove anchovies and any remaining particles. Set aside.

Step 4

Heat a medium pot or earthenware pot (ttukbaegi) over medium high heat. Add the oil or vegetable oil, onions, and garlic. Stir fry until onions are transluscent and garlic is lightly browned, about 2 to 3 minutes. Then add the gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes). Stir to combine about 1 minute.

Step 5

Add the protein and stir quickly to coat them with the chili flakes. Next, the fish sauce and soy sauce and mix until combined.

Step 6

Add the anchovy stock or chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil about 3 minutes.

Step 7

Then, add the soft tofu, mushrooms and egg and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Taste and season with salt and sugar, if required.

Step 8

Lastly, top with sesame oil and garnish with green onions. Serve with rice and Korean side dishes. Enjoy!