Looking for a recipe that combines bold flavors with soothing comfort? This Easy Soondubu Jjigae (Korean Soft Tofu Stew) is the perfect cozy dinner—especially on chilly evenings or post-workout nights when you need nourishment, warmth, and satisfaction in one bowl. Silky tofu, aromatic garlic and onions, umami-packed broth, and a spicy chili base make this one of the most beloved dishes in Korean cuisine.
This hearty stew checks all the boxes for healthy winter dinners, Asian comfort mealset soft food recipes for dinner. It’s also highly adaptable to high-protein, vegan, sans glutenet low-carb diets.
🇰🇷 What is Soondubu Jjigae?
“Soondubu” (순두부) translates to “extra-soft tofu” and “jjigae” (찌개) means “stew.” This iconic Korean dish typically features uncurled soft tofu simmered in a deep-red chili broth with garlic, onions, and scallions. Common additions include zucchini, kimchi, clams, beef, or mushrooms. The stew is finished by cracking in a raw egg, which gently poaches in the bubbling broth.
Served piping hot—often still bubbling in a stone bowl—Soondubu Jjigae is as much a sensory experience as it is a nourishing meal.
💡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why Soondubu Jjigae deserves a permanent spot in your weekly dinner rotation:
- Quick to make – Done in 30 minutes or less.
- Personnalisable – Adjust spice level, protein, and broth to suit your diet.
- Comforting – Warm, hearty, and easy to digest.
- Nutritious – High in protein, low in carbs, and full of micronutrients.
- Meal-prep friendly – The flavors deepen overnight.
- Perfect soft food – Great for those recovering from dental work or seeking soft vegan food ideas.
Whether you’re an athlete needing a post-gym meal, a home cook diving into Asian cuisine, or simply someone looking for comfort ideas for dinner, this dish ticks every box.
🛒 Ingredients Breakdown (What You’ll Need)
Understanding each ingredient will help you make the best substitutions and personalize your stew.
🔸 Aromatics
- Sesame oil: Toasted sesame oil adds a nutty depth that defines Korean soups.
- L'ail: The more, the better—it’s both aromatic and immune-boosting.
- Onions + Scallions: Add sweetness and texture to balance the spice.
🔸 Heat + Umami
- Gochugaru: Korean chili flakes with mild heat and a smoky, fruity aroma.
- Gochujang (optional): A fermented chili paste that adds umami and a hint of sweetness.
- Soy sauce (or tamari): Salty and savory; helps build the stew’s base.
🔸 Broth
- Vegetable broth: Makes it vegan, or use anchovy broth for authentic Korean flavor.
- Water + dash of dashi: Optional substitute if you’re in a pinch.
🔸 Protein
Choose one or mix:
- Soft tofu (soondubu): Silky, creamy, unpressed tofu that absorbs all the flavors.
- Ground meat: Beef, pork, or chicken work well.
- Seafood: Shrimp, clams, or mussels give it a briny kick.
- Mushrooms: For a vegan/vegetarian option with umami punch.
🔸 Veggies
- Zucchini: Classic in Korean stews, softens nicely.
- Mushrooms: Shiitake or oyster mushrooms are ideal.
- Kimchi: Adds tang, spice, and depth to the stew.
🔸 Finishing Touch
- Oeuf: Cracked in just before serving, adding creaminess.
- Scallions + sesame seeds: For fresh bite and garnish.
👨🍳 Easy Soondubu Jjigae Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 2–3
Step 1: Build Your Base
In a medium saucepan or Korean stone pot (ttukbaegi), heat 1 tablespoon of l'huile de sésame over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves, ½ chopped l'oignon, and the white parts of 2 chopped scallions. Sauté until fragrant and translucent—about 2–3 minutes.
Step 2: Add Your Spices
Stir in 1 tablespoon of gochugaru (adjust to taste). Let it toast for 30 seconds to release its fragrance. Optional: Add 1 tablespoon of gochujang for extra body and depth.
Step 3: Add Your Protein and Veggies
Add your chosen la protéine—¼ pound ground meat, sliced mushrooms, or shrimp—and cook until just done. Add thinly sliced courgettes or a handful of kimchi at this stage.
Step 4: Pour in Broth and Simmer
Add 2 cups of vegetable or anchovy broth. Season with 1 tablespoon of la sauce de soja and bring the stew to a gentle boil. Lower heat and simmer for 7–8 minutes to develop flavor.
Step 5: Add Soft Tofu
Gently spoon in the soft tofu in big chunks. Avoid breaking it up too much—you want those silky textures intact.
Step 6: Crack the Egg (Optional)
Turn off the heat and crack one egg into the center of the stew. Cover with a lid and let it sit for 2 minutes to cook with residual heat.
Étape 7: Garnir et Servir
Top with the green parts of the scallions, toasted graines de sésame, and an optional drizzle of chili oil. Serve bubbling hot with a bowl of steamed rice and Korean side dishes.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Soondubu Jjigae is satisfying on its own, but here are ways to complete your Korean meal:
On the Side:
- Steamed short-grain rice – balances the spice
- Kimchi – spicy, tangy fermented cabbage
- Gaji Namul – seasoned eggplant
- Oi Muchim – spicy cucumber salad
- Pickled radish or seaweed salad
For Bigger Meals:
- Pair with Korean grilled meats or Bibimbap
- Serve as a soup starter for an Asian fusion dinner
🥗 Make It a Lifestyle Recipe
Here’s how this dish fits into different diet plans:
✔️ Bodybuilder Meals
- Use lean ground turkey or chicken.
- Add egg whites or even extra tofu.
- High in protein, low in fat and carbs.
✔️ Vegan-Friendly
- Skip the egg and meat.
- Load with mushrooms, kimchi (vegan), and vegetable broth.
- Optional: Add seaweed for minerals.
✔️ Soft Food Diet
- Ideal for those who need easy-to-chew meals—the tofu, zucchini, and egg are all soft and gentle on the stomach.
✔️ Weight-Loss or Cutting Diets
- Low-calorie, high-flavor.
- Keeps you full due to protein + liquid volume.
- Avoid adding rice if you’re watching carbs.
🧊 Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Fridge: Store in airtight containers up to 4 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
Congélateur: Tofu will change texture when frozen, so it’s best to freeze only the broth and protein/veggie mix. Add fresh tofu and egg when reheating.
Meal Prep Hack: Make a “Soondubu base” by sautéing garlic, onion, gochugaru, and gochujang and freeze in small containers. Defrost and just add broth and tofu for a quick meal!
🍜 Pro Cooking Tips
- Use authentic Korean ingredients for the best flavor—Korean gochugaru is irreplaceable.
- Don’t overboil the tofu; it’s meant to be delicate and custardy.
- Cook in a stone pot for maximum heat retention and traditional presentation.
🎉 When to Serve Soondubu Jjigae
This dish isn’t just limited to cold nights. It works beautifully for:
- Rainy days
- Winter meal prep
- Post-gym recovery
- Dinner parties (served in individual stone bowls)
- Soft food phase after dental procedures
- Quick May comfort food recipes
🧘♀️ Soondubu for Self-Care
Food is more than just nutrition—it’s emotional. The warm, soothing nature of Soondubu Jjigae makes it a perfect dish for mindful eating et comfort food rituals. Prepare it slowly, serve it with intention, and let each bite warm your soul.
🏷️ Final Word
Soondubu Jjigae is more than a meal—it’s comfort, health, flavor, and culture in one bubbling bowl. This easy version makes it possible to enjoy the traditional Korean dish at home without fuss. Whether you’re looking to impress guests, nourish your body, or simply warm up after a long day, this recipe is a must-try.
Don’t be afraid to make it your own—after all, the best comfort food is the one that suits your taste, your health goals, and your kitchen.
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