Recipe Kalguksu

Kalguksu, literally meaning "knife noodles," is a traditional Korean noodle dish characterized by its handmade, knife-cut wheat flour noodles and hearty broth. This dish is often enjoyed during the colder months, providing warmth and comfort. Its name comes from the unique way the noodles are prepared, which involves cutting the dough into thin strips using a knife. Kalguksu is versatile and can be made with a variety of broths, including chicken, beef, seafood, or vegetable, making it a favorite among many.

Ingredients

For the Noodles:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup water
• Cornstarch (for dusting)

For the Broth:

• 1 whole chicken or 500g beef brisket
• 8 cups water
• 1 onion, quartered
• 5 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 piece of ginger (about 1 inch), sliced
• 2 green onions, cut into large pieces
• 1 zucchini, julienned
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 potato, julienned (optional)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Chili flakes (optional)

Preparation

Making the Noodles:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
   • Gradually add water while mixing until the dough starts to come together.
   • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
   • Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

2. Cutting the Noodles:

   • After resting, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a thin sheet (about 1/8 inch thick).
   • Dust the rolled-out dough with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
   • Fold the dough sheet over several times and cut into thin strips using a sharp knife.
   • Gently shake the noodles to separate and dust with more cornstarch if necessary.

Preparing the Broth:

1. Cooking the Meat:

   • In a large pot, add the chicken or beef, water, onion, garlic, ginger, and green onions.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1-2 hours until the meat is tender and the broth is flavorful.
   • Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface.

2. Straining the Broth:

   • Remove the meat and set it aside to cool.
   • Strain the broth to remove the solids, returning the clear broth to the pot.
   • Shred the meat into bite-sized pieces and add it back to the broth.

Cooking the Noodles:

1. Simmering:
   • Bring the broth to a gentle boil.
   • Add the julienned zucchini, carrot, and potato (if using) and cook for about 5 minutes.
   • Add the freshly cut noodles to the boiling broth and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked through and tender.

Seasoning:

1. Final Touches:
   • Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and chili flakes if desired.

Tips

• Noodle Consistency: Ensure the dough is well-kneaded and rested to achieve a smooth and elastic consistency for the best noodle texture.
• Broth Flavor: For a richer broth, consider roasting the onion and garlic before adding them to the pot.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or bok choy to enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the dish.
• Meat Options: Experiment with different meats like pork or even seafood to create unique variations of Kalguksu.

Variations

• Seafood Kalguksu: Replace the meat with a variety of seafood such as clams, shrimp, and mussels for a fresh and briny flavor.
• Vegetarian Kalguksu: Use vegetable broth and add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Spicy Kalguksu: Add gochujang (Korean red chili paste) or gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes) to the broth for a spicy kick.

Calories

The calorie content of Kalguksu can vary based on the ingredients and portion size. On average, a serving of Kalguksu (approximately 1 large bowl) contains about 400-500 calories. This estimate includes the handmade noodles, broth, vegetables, and meat. Adjustments to the recipe, such as using leaner meats or more vegetables, can alter the calorie count.

Conclusion

Kalguksu is a delightful and comforting Korean dish perfect for any occasion, especially during cooler weather. Its handmade noodles and rich broth provide a satisfying meal that is both flavorful and nourishing. With its versatility in ingredients and variations, Kalguksu can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you're a fan of traditional recipes or looking to experiment with new flavors, Kalguksu offers a delicious and hearty option that will surely become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.