Beoseot Soondubu (Mushroom Tofu Stew): A Delicious Korean Comfort Food
Welcome to the wonderful world of Beoseot Soondubu, also known as Mushroom Tofu Stew! This delightful dish hails from South Korea and is a favorite among many for its warm, comforting flavors. Soondubu is a soft tofu stew that is not only delicious but also very versatile, allowing different ingredients to create a unique taste each time.
Historically, this dish is connected to Korean home cooking, where families gather around the table to enjoy a hearty meal together. The use of mushrooms adds an earthy flavor, making it a nutritious choice. Whether it’s cold outside or you just need a pick-me-up, Beoseot Soondubu is sure to fill your belly and warm your heart!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Soft tofu | 1 block (about 14 oz) |
| Assorted mushrooms (shiitake, oyster) | 2 cups, sliced |
| Vegetable broth | 4 cups |
| Korean chili paste (gochujang) | 2 tablespoons |
| Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Green onions | 2, chopped |
| Soy sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Sesame oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Feel free to use any mushrooms you have on hand. If you can’t find gochujang, you can substitute it with sriracha for a spicy kick!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Start by slicing your assorted mushrooms and chopping the green onions. Mince the garlic too.
- Simmer the broth: In a large pot, pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add mushrooms: Once the broth is simmering, add the sliced mushrooms. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften.
- Mix in seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Allow everything to cook together for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
- Add tofu: Carefully cut the soft tofu into cubes and gently add them to the pot. Be careful not to break them too much.
- Final touches: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the stew simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the tofu through.
- Serve hot: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions. Enjoy it with rice or by itself!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 180 | 9% |
| Protein | 12g | 24% |
| Carbohydrates | 15g | 5% |
| Fats | 8g | 12% |
| Sodium | 600mg | 25% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
Tips and Tricks
- Customize your stew: You can add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Go for spicy: If you love heat, add more gochugaru or sliced fresh chili peppers.
- Avoid overcooking: Be gentle when stirring to keep the tofu intact and minimize breaking.
- Perfect sides: Serve with steamed rice or Korean pancakes to complete your meal.
FAQs
Can I use other types of tofu?
Yes, you can use firm tofu instead of soft tofu, but it won’t absorb the flavors as well.
Is this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Beoseot Soondubu is vegetarian-friendly, especially when using vegetable broth.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan with all the ingredients listed, making it perfect for anyone!
How spicy is this stew?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference by modifying the amount of gochujang and gochugaru.
Can I meal prep this dish?
Yes, Beoseot Soondubu can be made ahead and stored in the fridge, but tofu may absorb more liquid over time.
What can I serve with Beoseot Soondubu?
It tastes great with steamed rice, kimchi, or even Korean pancakes.
How long does it take to prepare?
This dish takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick weeknight meal!
Can I substitute the vegetable broth?
Yes, chicken broth can be used if you’re not following a vegetarian or vegan diet.
What is gochujang?
Gochujang is a Korean chili paste made from red chili, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt, adding a unique flavor to dishes.
Enjoy making your Beoseot Soondubu and revel in the delightful flavors of this easy-to-make Korean classic! Happy cooking!
