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Korean-style serving of Soybean-paste soup

된장국 · Soybean-paste soup

Soybean-paste soup

된장국

What exactly is it?

Soybean paste seasons a generous broth containing greens. Compared with a concentrated doenjang-jjigae, it usually fills the soup role beside rice and side dishes. Cabbage, spinach or mallow change its aroma and texture.

Main ingredients

Soybean paste, greens such as cabbage or spinach, water or anchovy stock

Ordering and serving

Distinguish an included side soup from a full meal order. Soybean paste contains soy and commercial products may include wheat; the broth also affects whether the dish is vegetarian.

Origins and changes

It comes from using stored soybean paste with available greens. Spring shepherd’s-purse soup and dried-radish-leaf soup can belong to this family. The particular leaves tell you more about the bowl than a broad regional label.

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Soybean-paste soup

된장국

Main ingredients
Soybean paste, greens such as cabbage or spinach, water or anchovy stock
Flavor and character
Soybean paste seasons a generous broth containing greens. Compared with a concentrated doenjang-jjigae, it usually fills the soup role beside rice and side dishes. Cabbage, spinach or mallow change its aroma and texture.
How to eat it
Distinguish an included side soup from a full meal order. Soybean paste contains soy and commercial products may include wheat; the broth also affects whether the dish is vegetarian.
Read about this dish →

Shepherd's-purse soup

냉이국

Main ingredients
Shepherd’s purse, soybean paste, sometimes tofu or clams, water or stock
Flavor and character
Leaves and fine roots of shepherd’s purse simmer in soybean-paste broth. Its earthy root aroma distinguishes it from spinach soup. Tofu or clams may be added, depending on the cook.
How to eat it
Try a little broth first if the aroma is unfamiliar, then taste the roots. Some versions include clams, so a vegetable name does not guarantee seafood-free soup.
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