Budae Jjigae - New Nordic Style

Ingredients

While the original Budae Jjigae is known for its use of processed meats and instant noodles, this New Nordic adaptation focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The recipe incorporates Nordic flavors and techniques, such as using foraged herbs and incorporating seasonal vegetables, to create a lighter and more wholesome version of the traditional Korean dish. We alse have the original recipe for Budae jjigae, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 leek, sliced 1 leek, sliced
• 1 carrot, thinly sliced 1 carrot, thinly sliced
• 1 cup (150g) button mushrooms, sliced 1 cup (150g) button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup (200g) sauerkraut 1 cup (200g) sauerkraut
• 1 cup (200g) kimchi 1 cup (200g) kimchi
• 200g smoked salmon, sliced 200g smoked salmon, sliced
• 200g tofu, cubed 200g tofu, cubed
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon dried dill 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 10g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, leek, and carrot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
2. 2.
   Add the mushrooms, sauerkraut, and kimchi to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. 3.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add the smoked salmon, tofu, soy sauce, maple syrup, dried dill, and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. 4.
   Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have developed and the vegetables are tender.
5. 5.
   Serve the Budae Jjigae hot, garnished with fresh herbs like dill or chives.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Smoked salmon — Use high-quality smoked salmon for the best flavor.
• Tofu — Press the tofu before cubing it to remove excess moisture and improve texture.
• Kimchi — If you prefer a milder flavor, rinse the kimchi before adding it to the stew.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smoky flavor, you can add a small amount of liquid smoke to the stew.
• Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what's in season or available locally.
• If you prefer a spicier stew, add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
• Serve the Budae Jjigae with a side of rye bread or Nordic-style flatbread.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and taste even better the next day.

Serving advice

Serve the Budae Jjigae in individual bowls, allowing each person to garnish their stew with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. Accompany the stew with a side of rye bread or Nordic-style flatbread for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Budae Jjigae in rustic ceramic bowls, showcasing the vibrant colors of the vegetables and smoked salmon. Garnish with a sprig of fresh dill or chives for an elegant touch.