Doenjang jjigae is one of those deeply comforting Korean stews that tastes like it has been simmering all day, even when it hasn't. The broth here starts with dried kelp and anchovies, building a naturally savory, umami-rich base that no flavor packet or shortcut could replicate. That foundation matters a lot when you're cooking without artificial flavors ā every bit of depth in the bowl comes from real, whole ingredients doing exactly what they're supposed to do. Gluten-free doenjang and tamari carry the fermented, salty backbone of the dish, while gochugaru, garlic, and a fresh chili bring gentle heat that builds as you eat. Zucchini, shiitake mushrooms, and cubed firm tofu soak up all of that broth beautifully, giving you something hearty and satisfying in every spoonful. Served over short-grain white rice, this is the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out ā no mystery ingredients, no shortcuts, just honest, bold flavor built from scratch.
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4 oz shiitake mushrooms, stems removed, caps sliced
14 oz firm tofu, cut into ¾-inch cubes
1 medium onion, cut into ½-inch chunks
2 green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 fresh korean green chili or serrano pepper, sliced (optional)
For serving
cooked short-grain white rice, for serving
Instructions
1
Combine the water, dried kelp, and dried anchovies in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 10 minutes, until the broth is lightly golden and fragrant.
2
Remove the kelp and anchovies with a fine-mesh strainer or tongs and discard them. You should have about 5 cups of clear broth.
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