Sundubu Bokkeum, also known as Spicy Stir-Fried Soft Tofu, is a delightful Korean dish that combines the silkiness of soft tofu with a rich, spicy sauce. It's a comforting, protein-packed meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also offers a fantastic way to enjoy the unique texture of sundubu (soft tofu). In this article, we will guide you through the ingredients needed, the preparation process, useful tips, variations, calorie information, and a conclusion to help you make the perfect Sundubu Bokkeum.
Ingredients
To make Sundubu Bokkeum, you will need the following ingredients:
- 400g soft tofu (sundubu)
- 200g pork belly or beef, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 cup water or broth
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Preparation and Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare Sundubu Bokkeum:
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Cut the soft tofu into bite-sized cubes.
- Slice the pork belly or beef thinly.
- Slice the onion thinly and chop the green onions.
- Mince the garlic.
Heat the Oil:
- In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Cook the Meat:
- Add the sliced pork belly or beef to the pan and cook until it starts to brown.
Add the Aromatics:
- Add the minced garlic and sliced onion to the pan. Stir-fry until the onion becomes translucent.
Add the Sauce Ingredients:
- Add the gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar to the pan. Stir well to combine.
Add the Tofu:
- Gently add the soft tofu cubes to the pan. Be careful not to break them. Stir gently to coat the tofu with the sauce.
Simmer:
- Add the water or broth to the pan and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until the tofu is heated through and the flavors meld together.
Finish with Green Onions:
- Add the chopped green onions and stir gently. Cook for another minute.
Serve:
- Transfer the Sundubu Bokkeum to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds.
Tips
- Tofu Handling: Soft tofu is delicate, so handle it carefully to avoid breaking it. Use a large spoon to transfer and stir the tofu.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of gochujang and gochugaru. For more heat, add extra gochugaru or fresh chili peppers.
- Protein Options: While pork belly and beef are traditional choices, you can also use chicken, seafood, or make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat.
- Broth Choice: Using broth instead of water can enhance the flavor of the dish. Chicken, beef, or vegetable broth all work well.
Variations
- Vegetarian Sundubu Bokkeum: Omit the meat and add more vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
- Seafood Sundubu Bokkeum: Substitute the pork or beef with shrimp, squid, or a mix of your favorite seafood.
- Spicy Kimchi Sundubu Bokkeum: Add 1/2 cup of chopped kimchi to the dish for an extra layer of flavor and spice.
- Cheese Sundubu Bokkeum: Top the finished dish with shredded cheese and let it melt for a creamy twist.
Calorie Information
The calorie content of Sundubu Bokkeum can vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used. On average, a serving of Sundubu Bokkeum (approximately 200 grams) contains:
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Protein: 15-20 grams
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
These values are estimates and can change based on the type and amount of meat, tofu, and additional ingredients used.
Conclusion
Sundubu Bokkeum is a flavorful and versatile Korean dish that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Its combination of soft tofu and spicy sauce makes it a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the rich flavors and delightful textures of Sundubu Bokkeum at home with this simple and delicious recipe!
