미역국

미역국 (Seaweed Soup)

Traditionally known as “Birthday Soup” in Korea, 미역국's blood-cleansing properties is also thought to be beneficial for new mothers. Seaweed soup is a must on birthdays, but it's also a healthy and delicious meal any time of the year.

Ingredients

Seaweed Marinade

  • 15g cut and dried seaweed (미역)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seed oil (참기름)
  • 3 cloves garlic, mashed
  • 1 tablespoon seasoned soy sauce (국간장)

Beef Marinade

  • 80g beef brisket (양지머리), cut into strips
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, grated
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seed oil (참기름)
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned soy sauce (국간장)
  • 3 cups water
  • Sea salt to taste

Directions

    Soaking seaweed
  1. Soak dried seaweed in a medium bowl in water for about 30 minutes, then wash the seaweed several times.
  2. Marinate seaweed
  3. Squeeze out any excess water, then add the marinade (sesame seed oil, garlic and seasoned soy sauce). Let sit about 30 minutes.
  4. Marinate beef
  5. While the seaweed is marinating, in a separate bowl, marinate beef with sesame seed oil, garlic and seasoned soy sauce.
  6. Stir-fry meat
  7. Heat a medium soup pot, then add marinated beef mixture. Brown all sides, about 3 minutes.
  8. Stir-fry Seaweed
  9. Making sure the pot is still hot, stir in seaweed mixture for about 5 minutes on medium heat.
  10. Pour water and boil
  11. Add water and cover. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about one hour. Taste and see if more salt is needed. Serve with rice and other side dishes.

Notes & Tips

Make sure not to use too much seaweed! In dried form, the seaweed doesn't look like much, but as it soaks up water, it can expand to 7 times its original size.
site comments powered by Disqus