Doenjang Soup Base

EQUIPMENT

• Earthenware Pot

INGREDIENTS 

• 1 cup stock – See Note 1
• 1 Tablespoon doenjang paste – (seasoned) See Note 2
• 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
• ½ teaspoon Korean red pepper flakes – (optional)
• 4 cloves garlic – minced

Vegetables & Protein

• ⅓ cup potatoes – diced
• ⅓ cup zucchini – diced
• ⅓ cup onions – diced
• ⅓ cup mushrooms – sliced
• ⅓ cup protein of choice (tofu, meat, seafood) – bite size pieces
• 1 red or green pepper – (optional) chopped

INSTRUCTIONS 

1. Soup Base: In a small pot or earthenware pot, saute garlic with vegetable oil until fragrant. Next add the stock, potatoes, onions, and meat or seafood (if using). Boil for 3 to 5 minutes.1 Tablespoon vegetable oil,4 cloves garlic,⅓ cup potatoes,⅓ cup onions,1 cup stock
2. Add doenjang and veggies: Add doenjang paste, zucchini, mushrooms, tofu (if using), and Korean red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until doenjang paste is fully dissolved. Boil until potatoes and protein are fully cooked, about 3 to 5 minutes.1 Tablespoon doenjang paste,⅓ cup zucchini,⅓ cup mushrooms,⅓ cup protein of choice (tofu, meat, seafood),½ teaspoon Korean red pepper flakes
3. Season and serve: Taste and season with more doenjang paste or soy sauce if needed. Add more stock if desired. Garnish with chopped pepper and serve. Enjoy!1 red or green pepper

RECIPE NOTES

Serves 1 to 2 people. I used a 20 fluid oz (2.5 cups) earthenware pot which is traditional for serving doenjang jjigae.

1. Stock – Use any flavor of stock you prefer – vegetable stock, chicken stock, or beef stock, but traditionally anchovy stock is used. To make anchovy stock, boil 2 cups of water with this anchovy flavoring packet. Dashi is another great option.
2. Doenjang paste – There are different types of doenjang paste. I recommend using seasoned doenjang paste for soups and stews, which include additional flavorings such as shellfish or seafood. Check the ingredients label when buying.
3. Vegan and vegetarian doenjang jjigae: Opt for vegan doenjang paste and add vegetable umami sauce to taste. Check the ingredients label when buying.