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Vegan Soybean Paste Stew (Doenjang-jjigae)

Best Vegan Soybean Paste Stew (Doenjang-jjigae) Ever!

This Vegan Soybean Paste Stew (Doenjang-jjigae) is a comforting classic that transforms pantry staples into a nourishing meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Soups
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Broth
  • 4 cups Water or Vegetable Broth Use vegetable broth for extra depth.
For the Flavor Base
  • 2 tablespoons Doenjang (Fermented Soybean Paste) Choose high-quality or traditionally fermented for the best results.
  • 1 teaspoon Gochugaru (Korean Red Pepper Flakes) Adjust quantity according to spice preference.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Freshly minced, can substitute with garlic powder.
  • 1 small knob Ginger Optional for those who prefer a milder flavor.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 Zucchini Could substitute with yellow squash for variation.
  • 1 cup White or Brown Mushrooms Use shiitake for a more pronounced mushroom flavor.
  • 1 cup Korean Radish or Daikon Regular radish can be used if unavailable.
  • 1 medium Onion Thinly sliced for natural sweetness.
For Protein
  • 14 ounces Firm Tofu Cubed for creamy, protein-rich addition.
For Garnish and Umami Boost
  • 2 tablespoons Scallions Sliced for fresh garnish.
  • 1 piece Kelp (Dashima) Optional; simmers in broth for extra flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil Use toasted sesame oil for richer flavor.

Equipment

  • medium pot

Method
 

Steps
  1. In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water or vegetable broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat, which should take about 5 minutes.
  2. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of doenjang and 1 teaspoon of gochugaru, stirring until fully combined and fragrant.
  3. Stir in the sliced Korean radish and onion, letting them simmer for 5 minutes until the radish becomes translucent.
  4. Add in the zucchini and mushrooms, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
  5. Gently fold in the cubed firm tofu, letting the stew simmer for 2 minutes.
  6. Turn off the heat and add the sliced scallions for garnish. Drizzle a teaspoon of sesame oil over the top before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Using high-quality, traditionally fermented doenjang enhances the umami flavor. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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