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Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Stew Recipe – Friendsgiving Food Ideas

Name: Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Stew Recipe – Friendsgiving Food Ideas
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 2 cups of Anchovy or Dashi Broth; 1 small Green Chili, sliced thin; 1 bundle of Enoki Mushrooms, trimmed; 1½to2 tablespoons of Korean Gochugaru; ¼ medium Yellow Onion, finely chopped; 3 stalks of Spring Onion, chopped; ½ teaspoon of Toasted Sesame Oil; 1½ tablespoons of Light Soy Sauce; 4 Fresh Shiitake Mushrooms, sliced; 3 cloves of Garlic, crushed or minced; 2 1/2 oz of Thinly Sliced Pork Belly or Marbled Beef

Iris Miller August 3, 2025

Servings: 2 Total Time: 25 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before we dig into the heart of the matter—Korean spicy soft tofu stew, or Sundubu-jjigae—let’s explore what complements this delightful dish. First off, a bowl of steamed white rice is a classic pairing. It balances the spiciness and helps soak up the flavorful broth.

Next, consider a side of kimchi. The tangy, fermented cabbage adds depth and enhances the meal experience. You might also enjoy Korean pancakes (Banchan) to add a crunchy texture.

Don’t forget pickled vegetables, which offer a refreshing contrast to the stew’s heat. Lastly, a cold glass of barley tea or a light beer can provide welcome relief from the spice.

Korean cuisine, renowned for its rich flavors and vibrant colors, has a treasure trove of dishes that bring comfort and joy. Among these, Korean spicy soft tofu stew stands out.

It’s a manageable dish with an explosion of flavor. There’s something enticing about a bubbling stew served in a hot stone pot, especially when the savory aromas envelop you.

What makes this stew so appealing? It’s the combination of silky tofu, tender meat, and spicy broth that warms the soul. Let’s embark on a flavorful journey to discover the ins and outs of this beloved dish.

What is Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Stew?

Korean spicy soft tofu stew, or Sundubu-jjigae, is a popular Korean dish featuring soft, uncurdled tofu simmered in a flavorful broth. Traditionally, it’s made with a mix of spices, meat, or seafood, and is often served bubbling in its stone pot.

The harmony between the ingredients makes this stew unique. The star is silken tofu, which melds beautifully with the spicy, savory broth. The addition of vegetables and condiments creates a symphony of flavors that are simply irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Stew

You may ask, what makes this stew so loved?

For many, the answer lies in its comforting characteristics. First, it’s incredibly warm and inviting, perfect for chilly evenings. The heat from the chili flakes warms you from the inside out, while the creamy tofu and tender meat provide a delightful contrast.

Second, it is adaptable. You can customize the ingredients based on what you have. Whether you prefer pork, seafood, or prefer to keep it vegetarian, Sundubu-jjigae can cater to your tastes.

Additionally, the stew is nourishing. Packed with protein from the tofu and meat, alongside vitamins from fresh veggies, it satisfies and sustains.

Last but not least, it’s a one-pot meal. Less mess in the kitchen means more time enjoying the delightful warmth of your stew.

The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Stew

Here are the essential ingredients to craft a delicious bowl of Sundubu-jjigae:

2 cups of Anchovy or Dashi Broth (substitute with veggie, chicken, or beef stock if desired)
1 small Green Chili, sliced thin
1 bundle of Enoki Mushrooms, trimmed
1½ to 2 tablespoons of Korean Gochugaru (chili flakes)
¼ medium Yellow Onion, finely chopped
3 stalks of Spring Onion, chopped
½ teaspoon of Toasted Sesame Oil
1½ tablespoons of Light Soy Sauce
4 Fresh Shiitake Mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves of Garlic, crushed or minced
2 1/2 oz of Thinly Sliced Pork Belly or Marbled Beef
1 Egg (whole)
1 pack (12 oz) of Silken Tofu

Directions

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to prepare this delightful stew.

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Start by heating a pot over medium heat. If you’re using anchovy or dashi broth, pour it in and let it come to a gentle simmer. This step is crucial because it sets the stage for all the flavors to blend beautifully.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

Once the broth is bubbling, add the finely chopped yellow onion and minced garlic. Allow them to sweat for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant. The sizzling sound will invite everyone to the kitchen.

Step 3: Intensify the Flavor

Now, toss in the sliced green chili, Gochugaru, and light soy sauce. Stir it well. You’ll notice that vivid red color emerging, and trust me, that’s a good sign!

Step 4: Mix in the Proteins

Next, incorporate your choice of meat. I love the richness of pork belly, but marbled beef works just as well. Sauté everything together until the meat is just cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Tofu and Mushrooms

It’s time to introduce the star of the show. Gently add the silken tofu, breaking it into chunks as you carefully stir it into the pot. Then, add the shiratake mushrooms and enoki mushrooms, stirring them in gently to avoid breaking the tofu too much.

Step 6: Finish It Off

Bring the pot back to a simmer. Crack the whole egg directly on top without stirring. Cover the pot and let everything cook for another 5 minutes until the egg is softly poached.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finally, drizzle the dish with toasted sesame oil and top it with chopped spring onion. Serve straight from the pot, and watch everyone’s eyes widen as the steam rises.

How to make Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Stew Recipe

Notes

Here are some handy tips to keep in mind when preparing Sundubu-jjigae:

Choose your spice level: Adjust the amount of Gochugaru to suit your taste.
Don’t rush: Allow the flavors to meld. Let it simmer gently.
Use quality ingredients: Fresh tofu makes a world of difference.
Experiment: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bok choy for more nutrition.
Share the love: Sundubu-jjigae is best enjoyed among friends and family. It’s a communal dish that sparks joy.

Storage Tips

If by chance you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

Refrigerate: Move leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the stew. Reheat gently on the stove to enjoy later.

Nutrition Information

Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Stew Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Here’s how to enjoy your Sundubu-jjigae even more:

Serve with Steamed Rice: A must-have to balance the stew’s heat.
Accompany with Kimchi: This lively side adds a tangy crunch.
Pair it with Korean Pancakes: The crunch is an excellent companion to the soft stew.
Add Pickles: They contribute refreshing bites to every spoonful.
Enjoy with Barley Tea or Beer: A cold drink complements the spice perfectly.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Stew?

Curious about alternatives? Here are five options:

Vegetable Broth: Perfect for a vegetarian version, retaining the umami flavor.
Mushroom Tofu: Swap regular tofu with mushroom tofu for enhanced flavor.
Seafood: Mix in shrimp or clams for a seafood twist on the classic stew.
Tofu Scramble: Use a firm tofu scramble for those avoiding soft textures.
Different Proteins: Chicken, turkey, or even plant-based proteins work well.

Conclusion

Korean spicy soft tofu stew is more than just a meal. It’s an experience that speaks of warmth and togetherness. Each element, from the delicate tofu to the spices, plays a crucial role in creating a dish filled with flavors and textures.

As I think back to the first time I made this dish, I recall how a simple bowl transformed into a centerpiece for laughter and stories among friends. Every slurp holds a bit of culture, history, and, most importantly, love.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and bring a piece of Korea into your kitchen.

Experience the joy of creating something special. You’ll find that Sundubu-jjigae offers comfort—a warm embrace captured in a bowl. Enjoy cooking, and don’t forget to share with loved ones.

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