Korean Soft Tofu Stew aka Soondubu Jjigae

Kimchi soft tofu stew (soup) is a popular Korean dish.  It is comforting to eat on a cold day.  We make it often during cold winter months.  As some of you may know, kimchi has properties that can strengthen your body immune system which comes in handy during cold season.

 
My Korean friend, Maria, has shown me how to make it her way (without the kimchi), it's a bit more elaborate compared to this quick recipe.  She makes the soup broth from scratch with chicken but often I don't have the time to do it, I just want something quick and easy.  So the following recipe is how I make this tofu soup.

Ingredients:

• 1 package of Korean brand extra soft tofu, usually sold only in Korean markets, if not available, you can use Chinese brand silken type tofu
• 1 set of the packages from "Pulmuone" brand tofu broth seasoning (see photo below), there are 3 sets of packages in the packet so you can use it for 3 meals.  There are two flavors of the seasoning - seafood or spicy.  Most of the times I buy the seafood one.  I have tried the other brands  but I prefer "Pulmuone" brand better and some of my friends feel the same way.
• 1 package of buna-shimeji mushroom, brown beech mushroom in English or oyster mushroom works well, too.  You can substitute it with any other type of mushroom if you like.
• 1 cup kimchi, I like to cut them into halves at least
• 1 cup frozen mix seafood, I usually get it from Korean market, too, you can use any kind of seafood - fresh or frozen
• 1 cup leeks, thin slices (optional)
• 1 or 2 eggs
• green onions, small rings, for garnish

Tofu Broth Seasoning

Direction:

1. Follow the instructions on the package for the broth, cook in a medium size pot or Asian clay pot
2. Add the remaining ingredients to it, cover with lid, cook until it boils. Slice the tofu into cubes before adding into the pot.
3. After boiling, lower heat, crack the eggs and add to the soup, do not stir or mix after adding the eggs, simmer for another 5 to 7 minutes.  The soup is now ready for serving, beware of the temperature heat.