Korean Cuisine: Soft Tofu Soup
I've long been a fan of Korean cuisine and instrumental in introducing the fascinating foods of this country to my friends. When Korean cuisine turned up on the 2011 trend list compiled by Epicurious, I couldn't have been more pleased. Finally, Korean food would be known to the masses. At least I hope.
I have wanted to share my passion for this richly spiced cuisine with you too, and that's why I've been spending one day a week, these last few weeks, discussing my favorite Korean dishes. Last week we talked mandu, Korean dumplings, and this week I can't wait to serve up Soon Du Bu Jigae or Soft Tofu Soup.
The perfect foil to the cold, the wind, and the rain, Soon Du Bu Jigae, which is served bubbling hot, is a stew that's chock full of vegetables, mushrooms and seafood along with pillow-soft tofu that practically melts in your mouth. In addition to being hot in temperature (it is usually served in the earthenware pot that it was cooked in), it is also quite spicy, and my nose always starts running the moment I put that first spoonful into my mouth.
You might expect this stew to be served at the beginning of your meal, but keep in mind that Korean dishes are served all at one time. There are no courses, so your soup, with its accompanying bowl of rice, will arrive at the same time as the other dishes you've ordered. Good thing too. You'll need a few minutes for your Soon Du Bu Jigae to cool down. I've burned my tongue often enough to know!
--Tracy Schneider
gazing balls on March 08, 2011 at 03:52 AM
I am asian and I love ordering this soup dish when we go out to eat! It's low carb and so so delicious.The recipe is quite simple.