Tasty Korean Winter Soup: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Dish

This Korean Winter Soup is the perfect dish to warm you up on cold, chilly days. With its rich, savory broth and hearty ingredients, this soup combines traditional Korean flavors with a comforting, nourishing texture. The addition of tender beef and vegetables such as napa cabbage and mushrooms makes each spoonful a balance of umami and freshness. A dash of soy sauce and sesame oil adds depth, while garlic and ginger bring in aromatic warmth. Best enjoyed when you need something filling and satisfying, this soup is ideal for cozy family dinners or as a special treat on a cold evening. You can substitute beef with chicken or tofu for a lighter version and adjust the spice level by adding chili flakes if you like a little heat.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef brisket or stew meat, thinly sliced
  
  

• 8 cups water or beef broth
  
  

• 1/2 napa cabbage, chopped
  
  

• 1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms or any mushrooms of choice, sliced
  
  

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  
  

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  
  

• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  
  

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  
  

• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
  
  

• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  
  

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  
  

• 1-2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  
  

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
  
  

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
   
   

2. Add the beef slices and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned, stirring occasionally.
   
   

3. Pour in the water or beef broth, then bring the mixture to a boil.
   
   

4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld.
   
   

5. Add the napa cabbage and shiitake mushrooms, then stir in the soy sauce, gochujang, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
   
   

6. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or soy sauce, if needed.
   
   

7. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
   
   

Nutritional Value (per serving)

• Calories: 220 kcal
  
  

• Protein: 20g
  
  

• Fat: 12g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 10g
  
  

• Fiber: 3g
  
  

• Sugar: 3g
  
  

• Sodium: 850mg