
Doenjang jjigae is one of those deeply comforting Korean stews that warms you from the inside out — earthy, savory, and rich with umami from fermented soybean paste, tender vegetables, and silky cubes of tofu. The broth starts with a simple simmer of dried kelp and anchovies, building a clean, naturally flavored base that carries every ingredient beautifully. For anyone managing a sensitivity to citric acid, this recipe is a genuine find, since the depth of flavor here comes entirely from whole, unprocessed ingredients with no packaged shortcuts that might sneak in hidden additives. The key is sourcing a gluten free doenjang and tamari, both of which keep the ingredient list straightforward and easy to verify. Zucchini, shiitake mushrooms, onion, and a hit of gochugaru round out the pot with color and gentle heat. Served over short-grain white rice, it's a full, satisfying meal that feels like it took far more effort than it actually did.
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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.
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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