Haejangguk, often referred to as "hangover soup," is a traditional Korean dish known for its hearty and comforting qualities. The name "haejangguk" translates to "soup to chase a hangover," as it is traditionally consumed after a night of drinking. This soup is packed with nutritious ingredients and rich flavors, making it a popular choice for rejuvenation. There are various versions of haejangguk, but common ingredients include pork bones, Napa cabbage, soybean paste, and radish.
Ingredients
For the Broth:
- 500g pork bones (neck bones or ribs)
- 1 onion, halved
- 5 cloves garlic
- 2-inch piece of ginger, sliced
- 1 radish, sliced
- 10 cups water
For the Soup:
- 300g Napa cabbage, chopped
- 200g soybean sprouts
- 1 block of firm tofu, sliced
- 1 tablespoon soybean paste (doenjang)
- 1 tablespoon Korean red chili paste (gochujang)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons Korean chili powder (gochugaru)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings:
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Fresh red chili slices (optional)
Preparation
Broth:
- Rinse the pork bones under cold water to remove any blood or impurities.
- In a large pot, add the pork bones, onion, garlic, ginger, radish, and water. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 2-3 hours, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface.
- After simmering, strain the broth to remove the solids. Set the broth aside.
Soup:
- In a large pot, add the strained broth and bring it to a boil.
- Add the soybean paste and red chili paste to the broth, stirring until dissolved.
- Add the chopped Napa cabbage and soybean sprouts to the pot.
- Add the sliced tofu, soy sauce, fish sauce, and chili powder. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the soup for about 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Season with sesame oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
Serving:
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, minced garlic, sesame seeds, and fresh red chili slices if desired.
- Serve hot with a bowl of steamed rice and enjoy.
Tips
- Pre-soak the Bones: Soaking the pork bones in cold water for an hour before boiling can help remove more impurities and result in a clearer broth.
- Adjusting Spiciness: You can adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less gochujang and gochugaru according to your preference.
- Alternative Proteins: If you prefer, you can use beef bones or even chicken instead of pork for the broth.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the pork broth with vegetable broth and omit the fish sauce.
Variations
- Kimchi Haejangguk: Add a cup of chopped kimchi to the soup for a tangy and spicy variation.
- Seafood Haejangguk: Incorporate seafood such as clams, shrimp, or squid into the soup for a different flavor profile.
- Ox Blood Haejangguk: For an authentic Korean experience, add congealed ox blood (optional) to the soup, which is commonly found in traditional recipes.
Calorie Information
The calorie content of Haejangguk can vary depending on the ingredients and portion sizes used. On average, a serving of Haejangguk contains approximately 300-400 calories. The addition of ingredients like tofu and vegetables contributes to its nutritional value, making it a wholesome meal.
Conclusion
Haejangguk is more than just a hangover remedy; it is a delicious and nutritious soup that offers comfort and revitalization. With its rich broth, tender vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, this traditional Korean dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it after a night of celebration or as a hearty meal on a chilly day, Haejangguk is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy making and savoring this traditional Korean delight!
