Welcome back to Chelsea's K-Food Recipes! Today, we’re making a nourishing Korean classic—Seaweed Soup (미역국, Miyeokguk). This light and savory soup is not only delicious but also known for its health benefits, making it a must-have for birthdays, postpartum recovery, or simply as a comforting meal. It’s loaded with minerals from seaweed, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup dried seaweed (미역, Miyeok)
- 200g beef (brisket or sliced stew meat), sliced thinly
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or more to taste)
- 8 cups water (or beef broth for richer flavor)
- Salt, to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- Minced garlic (1-2 cloves, for added flavor)
- Fish sauce (for a seafood twist)
Instructions:
1. Soak the Seaweed
- Soak the dried seaweed in cold water for about 10-15 minutes, or until it rehydrates and expands.
- Once rehydrated, drain and rinse the seaweed thoroughly. Squeeze out the excess water and cut it into bite-sized pieces if needed.
2. Cook the Beef
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced beef and stir-fry until browned, about 2-3 minutes.
- For extra flavor, you can add minced garlic at this stage and sauté with the beef.
3. Add the Seaweed
- Add the drained seaweed to the pot and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the seaweed to absorb the flavors of the beef and sesame oil.
4. Add Water and Simmer
- Pour 8 cups of water (or beef broth for a richer flavor) into the pot.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
- Let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the seaweed to soften and the flavors to meld together.
5. Season and Serve
- Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and salt to taste. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference.
- For a seafood variation, you can add a splash of fish sauce to enhance the umami flavor.
- Serve hot with a bowl of rice and enjoy this comforting, nutritious soup!
Tips for Perfect Miyeokguk:
- Use good-quality seaweed: Look for high-quality dried seaweed (미역, miyeok) for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the flavor: You can make this soup with seafood (like mussels or clams) instead of beef for a lighter taste.
- Postpartum favorite: This soup is traditionally eaten by Korean women after giving birth due to the nutrients in seaweed, which are believed to aid recovery.
Seaweed Soup is a simple yet deeply nourishing dish that brings comfort with every sip. Its clean, savory flavor and health benefits make it a popular choice for any occasion, from birthdays to everyday meals.
Thanks for visiting Chelsea's K-Food Recipes—enjoy this soothing Korean classic, and stay tuned for more nutritious dishes!