Allergens: Soy | Gluten (check doenjang label) | Naturally Dairy-Free | Nut-Free | Egg-Free

Cuisine: Korean

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Doenjang Jjigae (된장찌개) is one of Korea’s most essential home-cooked dishes—a deeply savory stew built around doenjang, a fermented soybean paste that has been part of Korean food culture for centuries. Traditionally served bubbling hot alongside rice and kimchi, this stew represents everyday nourishment rather than celebration.

While recipes vary by household, the foundation remains the same: fermented soybean paste simmered with tofu, vegetables, and a light broth. It is comforting, rustic, and intentionally simple—designed to warm the body and stretch ingredients efficiently, making it both sustainable and deeply satisfying.

Recipe Details

• Yield: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Kitchen Equipment

• Medium pot or Korean clay pot (ttukbaegi)
• Knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 4 cups water or anchovy–kelp stock (vegetable stock for vegan)
• 3 tbsp doenjang (fermented soybean paste)
• 200 g firm tofu, cubed
• 1 small zucchini, sliced
• 1 medium potato, diced (optional)
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms (shiitake or enoki)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green chili or jalapeño, sliced (optional)
• 1 tsp gochugaru (optional)
• 2 spring onions, sliced
• 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring water or stock to a gentle boil in a pot.
2. Dissolve doenjang into the broth, stirring until smooth.
3. Add garlic, onion, zucchini, potato (if using), mushrooms, and chili.
4. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until vegetables are tender.
5. Add tofu and cook 5 minutes more.
6. Finish with spring onions and sesame oil. Serve hot.

Dietary Substitutions & Allergen Swaps

• Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free doenjang.
• Vegan: Use vegetable stock and skip anchovy broth.
• Low-Carb: Omit potato and add more zucchini or radish.
• Nut-Free: Naturally nut-free; omit sesame oil if needed.

Chef’s Tips

• Rice-rinse water adds body and reduces waste.
• Start with less doenjang—brands vary in saltiness.
• Serve bubbling hot for the most authentic experience.

Wine & Beverage Pairing

Pair with an off-dry Riesling, Pinot Gris, or Korean makgeolli. Non-alcoholic options include barley tea or sparkling water with lemon.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Yes. It tastes better the next day. Reheat gently with water.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, though tofu texture may change slightly.

Is this spicy?
Mild by default. Adjust chili to taste.

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