Are you ready to explore a delicious and unique dish from Korean cuisine? Today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of Ssuk Kalguksu, or Mugwort Noodles. This dish is not only tasty but also has a rich history that connects it to the seasons and traditions of Korea. Mugwort, a key ingredient, is often celebrated for its health benefits and vibrant flavor.
Ssuk Kalguksu is popular among many because it combines freshly made noodles with the earthy taste of mugwort, creating a warm and hearty meal perfect for any day. Whether you’re enjoying it during a rainy day or sharing it with family, this dish has a special way of bringing people together. So let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Mugwort (fresh or dried) | 1 cup (fresh) / 1/2 cup (dried) |
| Water | 1/2 cup + more for cooking |
| Vegetable oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Broth (chicken or vegetable) | 4 cups |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Green onions (sliced) | 2 stalks |
| Salt | to taste |
| Optional: Eggs | 2 |
Feel free to substitute mugwort with spinach or another leafy green if you can’t find it. You can also use homemade or store-bought noodles for convenience!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and mugwort. Gradually add 1/2 cup of water and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes smooth.
- Rest the dough: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Roll the dough: After resting, roll out the dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough into thin strips to make your noodles.
- Cook the broth: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the broth and bring it to a boil.
- Cook the noodles: Add the fresh noodles to the boiling broth. Cook for about 4–5 minutes, or until the noodles float to the top and are tender.
- Add flavor: Stir in the soy sauce and season with salt to taste. If desired, you can add eggs at this point. Simply crack them into the pot and stir gently to create ribbons of egg.
- Garnish: Once everything is cooked, remove from heat and add sliced green onions on top for added freshness.
- Serve: Ladle the Ssuk Kalguksu into bowls and enjoy your delicious mugwort noodles!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 340 | 17% |
| Protein | 12g | 24% |
| Carbohydrates | 60g | 20% |
| Fats | 6g | 9% |
| Sodium | 800mg | 35% |
| Vitamin A | 20% | 10% |
| Vitamin C | 5% | 5% |
Tips and Tricks
- Fresh Mugwort: If using fresh mugwort, be sure to wash it well to remove any dirt.
- Noodle Thickness: Adjust the thickness of your noodles to your preference, but keep them even for uniform cooking.
- Stirring: Avoid over-stirring the noodles in the broth to prevent breaking them apart.
- Customize: Feel free to add additional veggies like mushrooms or carrots for more nutrition and flavor.
FAQs
What is Ssuk Kalguksu?
Ssuk Kalguksu is a Korean dish made of handmade noodles flavored with mugwort, served in a savory broth.
Can I use dried mugwort?
Yes! You can use dried mugwort instead of fresh, but the flavor will be slightly different. Use about 1/2 cup of dried mugwort.
Is Ssuk Kalguksu healthy?
Yes! This dish is packed with nutrients from the mugwort and other ingredients, making it a healthy meal option.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Can I make the noodles ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and cut the noodles ahead. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
What can I serve with Ssuk Kalguksu?
This dish pairs well with kimchi, pickled vegetables, or a side salad for a complete meal.
How spicy is Ssuk Kalguksu?
Traditionally, it’s not spicy at all. You can add chili flakes or sauce if you prefer some heat!
Can I freeze Ssuk Kalguksu?
While the noodles can be frozen, the broth is best fresh. If you freeze it, reheat carefully to maintain flavor.
What broth should I use for Ssuk Kalguksu?
You can use either chicken broth or vegetable broth, depending on your dietary preferences.
Is it difficult to make the noodles?
Not at all! Making noodles takes a little practice, but it’s simple and fun. Just follow the steps carefully!
Now that you have everything you need to make Ssuk Kalguksu, gather your ingredients, and start cooking. Enjoy this delicious bowl of mugwort noodles with family and friends, and share the warmth of Korean cuisine with everyone!
