Korean Tofu Soup Recipe
This Korean Tofu Soup Recipe is a rich, spicy, and comforting dish featuring soft tofu, Korean soybean paste, ground beef, and a perfectly poached egg. It is a quick and satisfying meal that can be easily customized with seafood, vegetables, or alternative protein choices.
2 Servings
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon Korean chile powder gochugaru
- 2 tablespoons ground beef optional
- 1 tablespoon Korean soybean paste doenjang
- 1 cup water or anchovy broth for added flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 12-ounce package Korean soon tofu (soft tofu), drained and sliced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1 green onion chopped
Instructions
Heat the Oil and Cook the Aromatics
- In a medium-sized saucepan, heat 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Once heated, add 1 teaspoon of Korean chile powder (gochugaru) and stir for a few seconds until fragrant. This step enhances the depth of the spice.
Cook the Beef and Build the Broth
- If using ground beef, add 2 tablespoons to the saucepan and cook, stirring continuously, until it is crumbly and browned (approximately 2-3 minutes).
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of Korean soybean paste (doenjang), ensuring the beef is well coated. Allow it to cook for 30 seconds to develop a deeper umami flavor.
- Pour in 1 cup of water (or anchovy broth for a richer taste) and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and allow the broth to simmer for 1-2 minutes.
Add the Soft Tofu and Simmer
- Gently add one 12-ounce package of soon tofu, breaking it into large chunks with a spoon.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Incorporate the Egg
- Remove the pot from the heat and immediately crack 1 egg into the soup.
- Stir gently to break it up slightly, or leave the egg undisturbed for a more poached texture.
Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the soup before serving.
- Serve immediately while hot, ideally accompanied by steamed rice and kimchi.
Notes
To prepare a gluten-free version of this Korean Tofu Soup Recipe, consider the following substitutions:
- Use a gluten-free Korean soybean paste (doenjang). Some brands contain wheat, so check the label carefully.
- Opt for tamari instead of regular soy sauce. If adding soy sauce to enhance the broth, ensure it is gluten-free.
- Choose a gluten-free broth alternative. Instead of anchovy broth, use homemade vegetable broth or a certified gluten-free stock.