Seonji Haejangguk (Blood Hangover Soup) Recipe
Welcome to the flavorful world of Korean cuisine! Today, we’re diving into a popular dish known as Seonji Haejangguk, or Blood Hangover Soup. This hearty soup is not just a meal; it’s a remedy often enjoyed after a long night out. With its warming ingredients, it’s famous for helping people feel better after a hangover, making it a beloved dish in Korea.
Historically, Seonji Haejangguk has been cherished for its comforting qualities and nutritional value. It has roots in traditional Korean culture, where food is often seen as medicine. The soup is packed with flavors and nutrients, making it both appealing and beneficial. Whether you’re dealing with a hangover or just want a delicious bowl of soup, this recipe is a fantastic choice for everyone!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cattle Blood (Seonji) | 1 cup |
| Beef (sliced) | 200 grams |
| Kimchi | 1 cup |
| Tofu (cubed) | ½ cup |
| Green Onions | 2, chopped |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) | 1 tablespoon |
| Sesame Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Water | 4 cups |
| Salt & Pepper | to taste |
*You can substitute cattle blood with beet juice for a vegetarian option, but this will change the flavor profile of the dish.*
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the ingredients: Gather all the ingredients listed above. Chop the green onions, mince the garlic, and cube the tofu.
2. Cook the beef: In a large pot, heat some sesame oil over medium heat. Add the sliced beef and cook until browned (about 5 minutes).
3. Add garlic and kimchi: Stir in the minced garlic and kimchi. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in water: Add 4 cups of water to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
5. Incorporate blood: Once simmering, slowly add the cattle blood (or beet juice) while stirring gently. This helps prevent clumping.
6. Add tofu: Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, then add the cubed tofu.
7. Season: Season with gochugaru, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
8. Garnish: Finally, sprinkle the chopped green onions on top before serving.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 250 | 12% |
| Protein | 20g | 40% |
| Carbohydrates | 15g | 5% |
| Fats | 10g | 15% |
| Sodium | 800mg | 35% |
| Vitamin C | 5mg | 8% |
Tips and Tricks
- For extra flavor, let the soup simmer longer, as this enhances the depth of the taste.
- If you love spice, feel free to add more gochugaru or even some sliced chili peppers!
- To make it heartier, you can add noodles or rice to the soup.
Common Mistakes:
Avoid adding the cattle blood too quickly, as it can clump. Stir gently when adding it to the boiling soup!
FAQs
What is Seonji Haejangguk?
Seonji Haejangguk, or Blood Hangover Soup, is a traditional Korean dish made with cattle blood, beef, and various vegetables. It’s famous for being a hangover cure.
Is Seonji Haejangguk healthy?
Yes! It’s packed with protein and other nutrients, making it a nourishing choice. Just be mindful of its sodium content.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the cattle blood with beet juice for a vegetarian version. However, it will have a different taste.
What should I serve with this soup?
Seonji Haejangguk is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with steamed rice or a side of kimchi for extra flavor.
How long does it take to make?
The soup takes about 30-40 minutes to prepare and cook.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, you can store leftovers in the fridge for 2-3 days. Just reheat before serving.
Is it spicy?
The soup can be made spicy depending on the amount of gochugaru you add. Adjust it to your taste!
What are the main flavors in Seonji Haejangguk?
The main flavors come from the beef, blood, kimchi, and sesame oil, all creating a rich and savory profile.
Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables, like mushrooms or zucchini, to customize the soup to your liking.
Is this dish popular outside Korea?
While it’s most popular in Korea, food lovers worldwide are discovering and trying this unique dish!
Now that you know how to make Seonji Haejangguk, gather your ingredients and enjoy a delicious bowl of this comforting soup. Whether you’re recovering from a night out or just craving something hearty and warm, this recipe is sure to please!
