Emulsifier Free Gluten Free Doenjang Jjigae
This deeply savory Korean soybean paste stew is the kind of bowl that warms you from the inside out ā earthy, a little spicy, and packed with tender zucchini, silky tofu, and meaty shiitake mushrooms. The broth starts with dried kelp and anchovies simmered together, building a naturally rich, umami-loaded base without any additives or processing aids whatsoever. That matters more than it might seem, because many store-bought broths and seasoning pastes sneak in emulsifiers to improve texture or shelf life ā here, every ingredient is whole and straightforward. The doenjang is dissolved slowly right into the simmering broth, which gives the stew its signature deep, fermented backbone, while tamari and gochugaru layer in saltiness and gentle heat. Garlic, onion, and a fresh green chili round everything out so the flavor feels complex but completely clean. Served over short-grain white rice, it's a satisfying, complete meal that comes together with nothing but real food and a single pot.
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Learn more āIngredients
4 servings
For the broth
- 6 cups water
- 1 piece dried kelp (dashima/kombu), about 4 inches
- Ā½ cup dried anchovies (large, heads and guts removed)
For the stew
- 3 tbsp gluten free doenjang (korean soybean paste)
- 1 tsp tamari
- 1 tsp gochugaru (korean red pepper flakes)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, cut into Ā½-inch half-moons
- 4 oz shiitake mushrooms, stems removed, caps sliced
- 14 oz firm tofu, cut into Ā¾-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, cut into Ā½-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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