Korean Spinach Soup
Korean Spinach Soup Recipe - Authentic Korean Cuisine
Introduction
Korean Spinach Soup, also known as Sigeumchi Guk, is a traditional Korean dish that is both nutritious and delicious. This soup is made with fresh spinach, ground beef, and a flavorful broth that is sure to warm you up on a cold day.
History
Korean Spinach Soup has been a staple in Korean cuisine for centuries. It is often served as a side dish or as a main course, especially during the colder months when spinach is in season. The soup is known for its simplicity and comforting flavors.
Ingredients
- 0.5 lb (227 g) fresh spinach
- 1 green onion, sliced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 0.5 lb (227 g) ground beef
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 2 tsp salt (2 to 3)
- pepper, to taste
- 4 cups water
How to prepare
- Thoroughly wash the spinach and trim off the thick stems.
- Heat the sesame oil in a heavy-bottomed pot.
- Brown the ground beef, separating it while stir-frying.
- Add the green onion, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
- Add the water, followed by the spinach.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat.
- Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 10 minutes.
Variations
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of water.
- Add tofu or mushrooms for extra protein and flavor.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of sesame oil for added depth of flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to thoroughly wash the spinach to remove any dirt or debris.
- Browning the ground beef before adding the other ingredients will help to enhance the flavor of the soup.
- Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
- For a vegetarian version of this soup, you can omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of water.
Serving Suggestions
Korean Spinach Soup can be served as a light lunch or dinner, accompanied by steamed rice and kimchi.
Cooking Techniques
Stir-frying the ground beef before adding the other ingredients helps to develop the flavors of the soup.
- Simmering the soup with a tight-fitting lid helps to infuse the broth with the flavors of the spinach and beef.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
- Substitute vegetable broth for water for a vegetarian version of this soup.
Make Ahead Tips
Korean Spinach Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or a drizzle of sesame oil for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve Korean Spinach Soup with steamed rice, kimchi, and a side of pickled vegetables for a complete Korean meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Korean Spinach Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Korean Spinach Soup contains approximately 200 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Korean Spinach Soup contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Korean Spinach Soup contains approximately 10 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Korean Spinach Soup contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Korean Spinach Soup is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium.
Alergens
This recipe contains soy and sesame oil, which may be allergens for some individuals.
Summary
Korean Spinach Soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is low in carbohydrates and calories, but high in proteins and vitamins.
Summary
Korean Spinach Soup is a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Packed with nutrients and flavor, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.
How did I get this recipe?
I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Korean Spinach Soup. It was many years ago, when I was a young girl living in a small village in South Korea. I had always loved watching my mother and grandmother cook, and I was eager to learn their secrets.
One day, my grandmother told me that she had a special recipe to teach me. She said that this soup was one of her favorites, and that it was a traditional dish that had been passed down through generations. I was thrilled at the opportunity to learn something new, and I eagerly followed her into the kitchen.
As we gathered the ingredients, my grandmother began to tell me the story behind the soup. She explained that it was a dish that was often served during the hot summer months, as it was light and refreshing. The main ingredient was spinach, which was abundant in the village gardens. She told me that the key to making the soup delicious was to use the freshest spinach possible.
We washed and chopped the spinach, and my grandmother showed me how to prepare the other ingredients. We used garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a few other spices to add flavor to the soup. I watched as she carefully measured out each ingredient, explaining the importance of balance and harmony in Korean cooking.
As the soup simmered on the stove, my grandmother told me about the history of Korean cuisine. She explained that Korean food was deeply rooted in tradition, and that each dish had a story to tell. She told me about the different regions of Korea, and how each had its own unique flavors and ingredients.
When the soup was finally ready, my grandmother ladled it into bowls and we sat down to eat. As I took my first spoonful, I was amazed at the depth of flavor and the richness of the broth. The spinach was tender and flavorful, and the spices added a subtle warmth to the dish.
My grandmother smiled as she watched me eat, and I could see the pride in her eyes. She told me that I had done a good job, and that I had a natural talent for cooking. From that day on, I knew that I wanted to learn as much as I could from her, and that I wanted to carry on the traditions of Korean cooking for future generations.
Over the years, I have made Korean Spinach Soup many times, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. I have shared it with friends and family, and it has become a favorite dish in my own household. Every time I make it, I think of my grandmother and the day she taught me how to cook it.
I am grateful for the knowledge and wisdom that she passed down to me, and I will always cherish the memories of our time spent together in the kitchen. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my heritage and to honor the traditions of my ancestors. And every time I make Korean Spinach Soup, I feel a sense of pride and gratitude for the gift that my grandmother gave me all those years ago.
Categories
| Beef Stock And Broth Recipes | Ground Beef Recipes | Korean Recipes | North Korean Meat Dishes | North Korean Soups | Sesame Oil Recipes | Shallot Recipes | Spinach Recipes |