Tender and Savory Gaji Doenjang Guk
A special soup made by gently simmering tender eggplant in a broth seasoned with dried shrimp and doenjang.
Translated from Korean by AI and not yet checked by a native speaker. Amounts and numbers are taken directly from the original recipe. Read the Korean original →
This soup features thick slices of eggplant cooked in a savory doenjang broth enriched with the umami of dried shrimp. The well-simmered, tender eggplant offers a soft, pillowy texture. Made with simple, accessible ingredients, it is easy to prepare and gentle enough for elderly diners.
- Servings
- 2–3 servings
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Spiciness
- Mildly spicy
Ingredients
Ingredients
- Eggplant3
- Dried shrimp1/2 cup
- Onion1/2
- Large green onion (daepa)1/2 stalk
- Red Cheongyang chili pepper1
- Water7 cups
- Broth tablet2
Seasoning
- Doenjang (Korean soybean paste)2 tbsp
- Soup soy sauce (guk-ganjang)1 tbsp
- Minced garlic1 tbsp
- Mushrooms, tofu, or squash also go well with eggplant doenjang soup.
- You can use 7 cups of anchovy broth instead of the broth tablets.
Steps
Slice the ingredients
Slice the eggplant into bite-sized, slightly thick slices, and julienne the onion to match the length of the eggplant.
Finely slice the large green onion and chili pepper.
Simmer
Add 2 broth tablets, 2 tbsp doenjang (Korean soybean paste), and the dried shrimp to 7 cups of water, then boil for about 3 minutes so the flavors infuse.
You can also use 7 cups of anchovy broth instead of broth tablets.
Add the eggplant, 1 tbsp soup soy sauce (guk-ganjang), and 1 tbsp minced garlic...
Simmer until the eggplant turns tender and soft. Finish by adding the onion, large green onion, and chili pepper, simmering briefly to release their aromas.
Ppunwife's tips
- I used dried shrimp to boost the umami of the doenjang.
- With its soft, pillowy texture soaked in savory doenjang flavor, this eggplant soup is wonderful for older family members.
FAQ
Can I use a different broth instead of broth tablets?
Yes, you can simmer it using 7 cups of anchovy broth instead of water and broth tablets.
Are there other ingredients that go well with this recipe?
To your liking, adding mushrooms, tofu, or squash pairs nicely with the doenjang soup.
How should I slice the eggplant?
Slice it into bite-sized pieces, keeping the slices slightly thick.
