Doenjang jjigae(Korean soybean paste stew) recipe

•  What is Doenjang jjigae(Korean soybean paste stew)?

Doenjangjjigae (also known as 된장찌개) is a popular Korean stew made from fermented soybean paste (Doenjang) and a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, meat, and seafood. The ingredients are simmered together to create a hearty and flavorful soup that is often served with rice and is considered a comfort food in Korea. Doenjangjjigae has a strong and earthy flavor, and the taste and ingredients can vary depending on regional and personal preferences.

*Doenjang is a kind of traditional paste which is made by boiling soybeans

• Doenjang jjigae(Korean soybean paste stew) ingredients

- 150g beef or pork, thinly sliced or diced into medium pieces

- 200g tofu, diced into medium pieces

- 1/4 zucchini, diced into medium pieces

- 1/4 potato, diced into medium pieces
- 1/4 onion, sliced thinly

- 2 tablespoons Doenjang(Korean soybean paste)

- 1 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chilli paste)

- 0.5 tablespoon minced garlic

- 0.5 tablespoon beef stock

- Optional : 1/5 chillies, sliced thinly

- Optional : 0.5 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chilli flakes)

- 600g water

• Doenjang jjigae(Korean soybean paste stew) recipe

Step 1 : Wash all vegies and cut them all

Step 2 : Add water, doenjang, gochujang, minced garlic, beef stock and stir to mix doenjang and gochujang well into water(Optional : gochugaru).

Step 3 : if boiling, add meat and potato and cook 4 mins.

Step 5 : Add zucchini, onion and cook 2 mins(Optional : chillies).

Step 6 : Add tofu in the middle and cook 2 mins more, and then serve it.

• More about Doenjang jjigae(Korean soybean paste stew)

Fermented soybean paste (Doenjang): Fermented foods like Doenjang are high in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can improve gut health and boost the immune system.

1. Vegetables: The dish typically contains a variety of vegetables, such as scallions, cabbage, and carrots, which are rich in vitamins and minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
2. Protein: The dish often includes beef or pork, providing a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
3. Low in calories: Doenjang jjigae is a low-calorie dish, making it a great choice for those who are watching their calorie intake.
4. Heart health: Sesame oil, which is often used in the dish, is rich in healthy fats that can help to improve heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease.

It is important to note that, like all foods, the health benefits of 된장찌개 can be impacted by the other ingredients used, the cooking method, and portion size. Enjoying it as part of a balanced diet is recommended.