Name: Delicious Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cups water (for anchovy stock); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (substitute with sesame oil for depth); 1 medium yellow onion (finely diced); 4 cloves minced garlic (fresh is best); 2 tablespoons gochugaru (adjust for heat); 4 cups anchovy stock or chicken/vegetable broth (homemade is preferred); 2 tablespoons fish sauce (add umami and saltiness); 2 tablespoons Korean soy sauce for soup (substitute regular soy sauce if needed); 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil (for finishing flavor); to taste sea salt (adjust based on broth); 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance seasoning); 1 block silken tofu (look for 'soondubu'); 1 cup mushrooms (Enoki or Shiitake) (use your preferred variety); 1 cup protein (choice of banana prawns, chicken, beef, pork belly, little neck clams, frozen dumplings) (choose based on preference); 2 large eggs (optional, crack on top); 2 tablespoons minced green onions (for garnish)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling garlic and the bright hue of gochugaru danced through the air, instantly transporting me to a bustling Korean street market. There’s nothing quite like an Easy Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup (Soondubu Jjigae) to warm your soul and lift your spirits. This dish not only comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner, but it also invites a world of customization—whether you prefer a mild touch or fiery heat, you can tailor it to suit your palate. With its silky tofu and robust, comforting broth, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of speed and flavor, ensuring even busy evenings can feel like a cozy escape. So, what unique twist will you add to your bowl tonight?

Why is this soup a must-try?

Quick and Easy: Whip up this Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals.

Customize to Taste: Adjust spice levels with gochugaru for the ideal heat that suits everyone’s preference.

Comforting Bowl of Flavor: The rich, spicy broth envelops silky tofu, providing a blissful contrast that’s both heartwarming and satisfying.

Versatility Galore: Whether you’re craving proteins like chicken or seafood, or even veggies, the options are endless in this customizable recipe.

Healthy Delight: Gluten-free and packed with nutrients, it’s a wholesome option that doesn’t skimp on flavor—perfect for health-conscious foodies!

Perfect for Sharing: Serve with steamed rice and banchan like kimchi for a traditional experience that everyone will love!

Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup Ingredients

For the Base
• Anchovy Stock – Used as a flavorful base; a seafood-free option is chicken or vegetable broth.
• Vegetable Oil – Ideal for sautéing; for added depth, substitute with sesame oil.
• Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; dice finely for even cooking.
• Minced Garlic – Enhances aroma and taste; fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
• Gochugaru (Korean Red Pepper Flakes) – Provides spice and color; adjust the quantity for your heat preference.

For the Soup
• Anchovy Stock or Chicken/Vegetable Broth – Essential for the soup base; homemade stock is preferred for authentic flavor.
• Fish Sauce – Adds umami and saltiness; use Korean soy sauce for the best results.
• Korean Soy Sauce for Soup – Important for seasoning; regular soy sauce can be a substitute if needed.
• Toasted Sesame Oil – For finishing flavor; don’t skip it for that distinct nutty aroma.
• Sea Salt – To taste; adjust based on the saltiness of your broth.
• Sugar – Balances the seasoning; add sparingly and taste for balance.

The Stars
• Silken Tofu – The star ingredient that provides creaminess; look for ‘soondubu’ for authentic texture.
• Mushrooms (Enoki or Shiitake) – Adds texture and flavor; feel free to use your preferred variety.
• Protein (Choice of Banana Prawns, Chicken, Beef, Pork Belly, Little Neck Clams, Frozen Dumplings) – Offers heartiness; choose based on your preferences.
• Eggs – Traditionally cracked on top for added richness; optional but recommended for a traditional touch.
• Minced Green Onions – For garnish; fresh herbs like cilantro can be substituted for variation.

This Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup is designed to not only nourish but also to adapt to your unique tastes and preferences, making every bowl a personal masterpiece!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Anchovy Stock
Begin by cleaning the anchovies, removing their guts, and rinsing them well. In a medium saucepan, combine the anchovies with dried kelp and about 4 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Once cooked, strain the stock and set it aside, ready to be the flavorful base for your Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup.

Step 2: Sauté Base Ingredients
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add finely diced yellow onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. Then, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of gochugaru and stir for an additional minute to bloom the spices, creating a rich aroma that forms the flavorful foundation of your soup.

Step 3: Add Protein
Once the base is aromatic, stir in your choice of protein, such as banana prawns or your preferred meat. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the protein is well-coated with the spices and begins to cook through. This step adds heartiness and flavor to your Easy Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup, ensuring a satisfying meal.

Step 4: Build the Soup
Pour the prepared anchovy stock back into the pot with the sautéed ingredients, increasing the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. At this point, the flavors will intensify, merging beautifully together to create the delicious broth that will be the highlight of your Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup.

Step 5: Incorporate Final Ingredients
Gently add 1 block of silken tofu, sliced into cubes, and any mushrooms you’ve chosen, like enoki or shiitake. If desired, crack an egg on top for added richness. Allow the soup to simmer for another 3-4 minutes, ensuring that the tofu warms through without overcooking, maintaining its creamy texture as it envelops your final dish in warmth.

Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste your broth, adjusting with sea salt and a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors to your liking. Remove the pot from heat and ladle the Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with minced green onions and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil, enhancing its aroma and presentation, and enjoy this comforting dish hot!

Expert Tips for Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup

Make Your Stock: For an authentic taste, prepare your anchovy stock from scratch. This ensures the richest flavor for your soup, enhancing the overall experience.
Adjust the Heat: If you’re new to spicy foods, start with a smaller amount of gochugaru. You can always add more as needed for your perfect Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup.
Keep Tofu Soft: Avoid overcooking the silken tofu to maintain its delicate texture. Gently heat it through at the end of the cooking process.
Flavor Boost: A drizzle of toasted sesame oil just before serving adds a lovely nuttiness and elevates the soup’s richness. Don’t skip this step!
Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap proteins or add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini, tailoring the soup to your personal taste preferences.
Use the Right Pot: Cooking in an earthenware pot retains heat beautifully and ensures even cooking, which is essential for the perfect Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup.

Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup Variations

Feel free to add your own spin to this incredible dish by customizing it to your heart’s content!

Dairy-Free: Swap silken tofu for a firm tofu or plant-based alternative like tempeh for a dairy-free option.
Protein Swap: Choose protein based on your preference; shrimp, chicken, or even a vegetarian mix can add unique flavors.
Veggie Boost: Toss in more veggies like spinach or bok choy for added nutrients and color—every crunch will add a healthy twist!
Spice Level: Adjust the heat by varying the gochugaru or adding a splash of sriracha for those who crave a fiery kick.
Broth Variation: Try using vegetable broth if you’d like a lighter flavor or chicken broth for a heartier base to match your taste.
Mushroom Medley: Experiment with different mushroom varieties, like shiitake or oyster, to change the texture and depth of flavor.
Noodle Twist: Consider adding soba or udon noodles for a comforting and filling bowl, turning it into a noodle soup delight.
Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro or Thai basil in place of green onions for a refreshing herbaceous kick.

With so many options, feel free to let your taste buds guide you, or for added inspiration, check out my warming Lasagna Soup Cozy or perfectly spiced Coconut Curry Soup for similar warmth and flavor!

How to Store and Freeze Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Ensure the soup cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion when reheating.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup is too thick after freezing.

Note: The silken tofu can change texture slightly after freezing, but with proper storage and reheating, your Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup will still be delicious and comforting!

What to Serve with Easy Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup

There’s nothing like finishing off your meal with delicious sides that elevate the comforting flavors of your steaming bowl of soup.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, slightly sticky rice perfectly absorbs the rich broth, making each bite even more satisfying. Pairing rice with your soup creates a hearty and balanced meal.
Kimchi: This classic Korean side dish adds a tangy, spicy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the tofu, enhancing the whole dining experience.
Pickled Vegetables: Refreshing and bright, these will cleanse your palate after each spoonful, creating a delightful balance between spicy and crunchy.
Savory Pancakes (Jeon): Golden-brown and crispy, savory pancakes filled with vegetables or seafood can add a textural twist to your meal while complementing the soup’s spice.
Seaweed Salad: Light and refreshing, the umami flavor from the seaweed adds depth to the meal, making it a lovely contrast against the rich soup.
Korean Soju or Beer: A cool drink can enhance the heat of your soup. Soju offers a smooth finish, while beer provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy elements.
Sweet Rice Cakes (Tteok): These soft, chewy delicacies provide a sweet finish, perfectly capping off your meal and soothing the palate after the soup’s spice.

Indulging in any of these options will not only enhance your dining experience, but also create a cozy, inviting atmosphere perfect for enjoying your Easy Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soups are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the anchovy stock and chop your vegetables up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The proteins, such as chicken or seafood, can also be marinated and refrigerated for up to 24 hours to enhance their flavor before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the stock, sauté your base ingredients, add the tofu and prepped components, and simmer until heated through—resulting in a comforting and delicious meal that feels effortlessly homemade!

Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of tofu should I use for this soup?
I recommend using silken tofu, as it gives the best creamy texture without overpowering the dish. Look for ‘soondubu’ if you want the most authentic experience.

How do I store leftovers of the Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure the soup has cooled completely before sealing the container to preserve freshness and flavor.

Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers, but be sure to leave some space at the top, as the soup can expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

What if I don’t like spicy food; how can I adjust the heat?
Very! If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of gochugaru to achieve your desired spice level. You can start with a teaspoon and gradually add more as needed. Alternatively, serve the soup with a side of chili paste, so everyone can customize their heat individually.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce and fish sauce. Be cautious with any additional sauces or condiments. Also, check for allergies if you’re using seafood or certain types of mushrooms, and feel free to substitute proteins based on your dietary restrictions.