Introduction
Spicy Korean Noodle Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that perfectly balances heat and flavor. The combination of spicy broth and fresh ingredients creates a flavorful meal that is both satisfying and nourishing. This easy recipe incorporates traditional Korean elements such as kimchi and gochujang, elevating the flavor profile while also being customizable with vegetables and noodles of your choice. Here’s how to make a delightful and spicy Korean noodle soup at home.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Spicy Korean Soup Broth:
– 4 cups (1 liter) low-sodium chicken stock/broth
– 2/3 cup cabbage kimchi
– 2 tablespoons kimchi juice (from kimchi tub)
– 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
– 2 teaspoons fish sauce (or substitute with additional soy sauce)
– 1 tablespoon Chinese cooking wine (Shaoxing wine)
– 2 slices ginger (each about 0.7 cm / 1/3 inch thick, skin on)
– 1 large garlic clove, smashed
Add-Ins:
– 200g (7 oz) thin fresh egg noodles (or 100g/3.5 oz dried)
– 4 stems choy sum or other Asian greens, cut into 7 cm (2.5 inch) lengths, stems separated from leafy parts
– 1 small carrot, peeled and cut into thin matchsticks
– 2 1/2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
– 1/4 cup finely sliced green onions (1 stem)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
Serves 2-3
Directions
1. **Prepare the Broth:**
In a saucepan, combine all the broth ingredients: chicken stock, kimchi, kimchi juice, gochujang, soy sauce, fish sauce, Chinese cooking wine, ginger slices, and smashed garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once it starts simmering, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes.
2. **Cook the Vegetables:**
Add the choy sum stems and carrot matchsticks to the simmering broth. Let them cook for 2 minutes. Add the choy sum leaves and continue simmering for an additional minute. Stir in the toasted sesame oil just before serving.
3. **Prepare the Noodles:**
While the broth is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and give them a quick rinse under tap water. Shake off any excess water.
4. **Assemble the Soup:**
Divide the cooked noodles evenly between serving bowls. Top the noodles with the cooked vegetables from the broth. Remove the ginger slices and garlic from the broth, then ladle the hot broth over the noodles and vegetables in each bowl. Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top as a garnish.
Serve immediately and enjoy your spicy Korean noodle soup!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Broth:
In a saucepan, combine all the broth ingredients: chicken stock, kimchi, kimchi juice, gochujang, soy sauce, fish sauce, Chinese cooking wine, ginger slices, and smashed garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once it starts simmering, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes.
Cook the Vegetables:
Add the choy sum stems and carrot matchsticks to the simmering broth. Let them cook for 2 minutes. Add the choy sum leaves and continue simmering for an additional minute. Stir in the toasted sesame oil just before serving.
Prepare the Noodles:
While the broth is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and give them a quick rinse under tap water. Shake off any excess water.
Assemble the Soup:
Divide the cooked noodles evenly between serving bowls. Top the noodles with the cooked vegetables from the broth. Remove the ginger slices and garlic from the broth, then ladle the hot broth over the noodles and vegetables in each bowl. Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top as a garnish.
Notes
Storage:
The soup is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Substitutions:
Feel free to substitute the greens with other leafy vegetables like spinach or bok choy based on availability.
Spiciness:
Adjust the amount of gochujang to suit your spice preference. For a milder soup, reduce the quantity.
Serving Suggestions:
This soup pairs well with additional toppings such as sliced chili peppers or a drizzle of chili oil for those who enjoy extra heat.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Broth
Incorporate all the broth ingredients in a saucepan over medium-high heat until they reach a simmer. Then, adjust the heat to maintain a gentle simmer for the flavor to develop.
Cooking the Vegetables
Add the harder vegetables first, in this case, the choy sum stems and carrot matchsticks. Once softened, introduce the leafy greens towards the end to prevent overcooking.
Preparing the Noodles
Follow the package instructions for cooking the egg noodles, ensuring they are drained and rinsed to remove excess starch, which can make them sticky.
Assembling the Soup
Layer the cooked noodles in bowls, add the vegetables, and carefully pour the hot broth over to ensure the noodles remain warm and flavorful.
FAQ
Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with any type of noodle, such as udon or rice noodles, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
What can I use if I don’t have gochujang?
You can substitute gochujang with a combination of miso paste and chili powder as an alternative, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use mushrooms to add depth. Ensure that other ingredients are also vegetarian-friendly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I add more protein to the soup?
Certainly! You can add cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp for added protein. Ensure they are cooked thoroughly before adding them to the soup.
Conclusion
This Spicy Korean Soup Broth with noodles and vegetables offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, providing both warmth and comfort. The combination of kimchi and gochujang gives the soup its signature spice, while the fresh vegetables add a crunch and the noodles bring heartiness. Enjoy this satisfying dish alone or as part of a meal with friends and family.
More Recipes Suggestions and Combination
Spicy Tofu Soup
Replace the noodles with cubed firm tofu and increase the vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Adjust the spice levels to your liking and serve with rice on the side for a complete meal.
Korean Seafood Soup
Add various seafood such as shrimp, mussels, and squid to the broth for a delicious seafood twist. Pair with fresh herbs like cilantro for added flavor.
Vegetarian Kimchi Ramen
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock, and include more assorted vegetables like bell peppers and baby corn. Top with sliced avocado for creaminess.
Noodle Salad with Kimchi Dressing
Cook and cool the noodles, then toss them with fresh vegetables like cucumbers and bean sprouts, and drizzle with a kimchi-based dressing made from the broth ingredients.
Spicy Korean Fried Rice
Utilize leftover broth to cook a spicy fried rice dish. Sauté rice with the broth, kimchi, vegetables, and an egg for a flavorful meal.
Kimchi Quesadilla
Combine kimchi with cheese and wrap in a tortilla. Grill until crispy for a fusion dish that pairs perfectly with the broth on the side.
