Korean Beef Soup Recipe: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort

Korean cuisine is rich in hearty and nutritious soups that warm the soul, and Korean Beef Soup Recipe is one of the best examples. Known as “Seolleongtang” in Korean, this traditional dish is a milky, collagen-rich soup made by simmering beef bones for hours. It is loved for its deep umami flavor, nourishing qualities, and comforting warmth. This guide will take you through a detailed step-by-step process to create this authentic Korean dish in your kitchen.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Calcium: 150mg
• Iron: 4mg

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Active Time: 4 hours
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Cuisines: Korean
• Course: Main Course, Soup
• Servings: 6

Equipment Needed

• Large stockpot (at least 8 quarts)
• Fine mesh strainer
• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Ladle
• Soup bowls

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 2 lbs beef marrow bones (such as leg bones or knuckle bones)
• 1 lb beef brisket or flank steak
• 10 cups water
• 1 medium onion, peeled and halved
• 5 garlic cloves, smashed
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste

For Serving:

• Cooked white rice
• Chopped green onions
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Soy sauce or fish sauce (optional)
• Kimchi (side dish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Bones

1. Rinse the beef bones thoroughly under cold water to remove any impurities.
2. Place the bones in a large stockpot, cover with water, and bring to a boil.
3. Let it boil for 10 minutes, then drain and rinse the bones under cold running water.
4. Clean the pot, then return the bones and add 10 cups of fresh water.

Step 2: Simmering the Soup

1. Add the halved onion and garlic cloves to the pot.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 3 to 4 hours.
3. Occasionally skim off any scum or excess fat that rises to the top.
4. After 2 hours of simmering, add the beef brisket and continue cooking for another 1 to 2 hours until the meat is tender.

Step 3: Straining and Seasoning

1. Remove the brisket and set it aside to cool slightly before slicing it thinly.
2. Strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer into a clean pot, discarding the solids.
3. Season the broth with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serving the Soup

1. Ladle the hot broth into bowls and add the sliced brisket.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
3. Serve with cooked white rice and kimchi on the side.

Tips for the Best Korean Beef Soup

• For a richer broth, simmer the bones for up to 6 hours to extract more nutrients and flavor.
• For a clearer broth, rinse the bones thoroughly and skim off impurities during the boiling process.
• Customize seasoning: Add soy sauce or fish sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
• Store leftovers: The soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

The Korean Beef Soup Recipe is a nourishing and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Korean comfort food. With its deep, rich broth and tender beef slices, it is the perfect meal for a cold day or when you need something hearty. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with rice and kimchi, this soup is sure to satisfy. Try making this at home, and experience an authentic taste of Korean cuisine!

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Ashley Doyle

I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.