Sundubu Jjigae

Sundubu Jjigae – spicy North Korean tofu stew
North-Korea
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Sundubu Jjigae is a beloved North Korean stew made with soft tofu and a variety of ingredients, including pork and vegetables. It holds cultural significance as a comforting dish often enjoyed during family gatherings and cold weather. Typically served hot, this stew warms both the body and spirit.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~380 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • For the Stew:
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 cup diced pork belly or ground pork
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup diced zucchini
  • 1/2 cup diced mushrooms (shiitake or button mushrooms)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Korean red pepper paste (gochujang)
  • 1 tablespoon Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
  • 4 cups chicken or beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
  • 1 package (14 oz) soft tofu (sundubu), cut into chunks
  • 1-2 eggs (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup sliced kimchi (optional)
  • For Garnishing:
  • Additional chopped green onions
  • Cooked rice (for serving)

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Dice the pork belly (or ground pork) and vegetables.

Mince the garlic and slice the kimchi if using.

Cook the Pork

Heat sesame oil in a large pot or Korean clay pot over medium heat.

Add the diced pork and cook until it starts to brown, about 5 minutes.

Add Vegetables and Seasoning

Add the diced onion, zucchini, mushrooms, and minced garlic. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.

Stir in the gochujang and gochugaru, cooking for another 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Add Broth and Tofu

Pour in the chicken or beef broth, soy sauce, and fish sauce (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce the heat to a simmer and add the soft tofu, breaking it into chunks. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Add Optional Ingredients

If using eggs, crack them directly into the stew and let them cook until the whites are set and the yolks are slightly runny, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the sliced kimchi if desired, and stir to combine.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sundubu Jjigae?

Sundubu Jjigae is a spicy Korean stew featuring soft tofu, meat, and vegetables, simmered in a flavorful broth.

Where does Sundubu Jjigae come from?

Sundubu Jjigae originates from Korea, particularly popular in North Korean cuisine for its hearty and warming qualities.

What are the main ingredients in Sundubu Jjigae?

The key ingredients include soft tofu, pork (belly or ground), onions, zucchini, mushrooms, garlic, and gochujang.

How long does Sundubu Jjigae take to make?

The total time to make Sundubu Jjigae is approximately 35-45 minutes.

What do you serve with Sundubu Jjigae?

Sundubu Jjigae is often served with steamed rice and kimchi for a complete meal.