Yukgaejang: Korean Spicy Beef Soup
The Spicy Delight: Yukgaejang – Korean Spicy Beef Soup
Introduction
Yukgaejang is a hearty and flavorful Korean soup renowned for its spicy kick and rich umami taste. This beloved dish is a perfect blend of tender beef, assorted vegetables, and the signature touch of spicy gochugaru (Korean red chili pepper flakes). Whether you’re a fan of Korean cuisine or looking to explore new flavors, Yukgaejang is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its delicious and comforting essence.
Ingredients
To prepare a steaming bowl of Yukgaejang, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound of beef brisket or chuck, thinly sliced
– 6 cups of water
– 1 onion, sliced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 1/2 cup of fernbrake (gosari), soaked and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup of sliced carrots
– 1/2 cup of sliced onion
– 1/2 cup of sliced mushrooms
– 1/2 cup of Korean radish, julienned
– 1/2 cup of bean sprouts
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon of gochugaru (Korean red chili pepper flakes)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
1. In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil.
2. Add the sliced beef and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the meat is tender.
3. Skim off any impurities and foam that rise to the surface of the broth.
4. Add the sliced onions, minced garlic, and fernbrake to the pot and continue simmering for another 10 minutes.
5. Mix in the chopped green onions, carrots, onions, mushrooms, Korean radish, and bean sprouts. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Season the soup with soy sauce, sesame oil, gochugaru, salt, and black pepper.
7. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.
8. Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
9. Serve the Yukgaejang hot, garnished with additional green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Prepare to be transported to the vibrant streets of Korea with each spoonful of this soul-warming Yukgaejang. Enjoy the robust flavors and comforting warmth of this Korean Spicy Beef Soup at your next meal!