Mandu Guk is a traditional Korean soup that offers comfort and warmth during cold days. This delightful soup features mandu (Korean dumplings) in a rich and savory broth, accompanied by slices of beef, vegetables, and seasoned with garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. It’s a perfect dish to celebrate Korean cuisine and is especially popular during the Korean New Year but can be enjoyed anytime for its heartwarming qualities.
Ingredients:
For the Mandu (Korean Dumplings):
- 30 pre-made mandu wrappers
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1 cup Napa cabbage, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup tofu, drained and crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup:
- 8 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1/2 pound beef brisket or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, lightly beaten (optional)
- 1 sheet of nori (dried seaweed), cut into thin strips (optional)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Directions:
- To make the mandu, combine ground pork, ground beef, Napa cabbage, tofu, green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well.
- Place a small amount of filling in the center of each mandu wrapper. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water, fold in half, and press to seal, making sure to remove any air pockets.
- Bring the broth to a boil in a large pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Add the sliced beef and minced garlic to the broth. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Carefully add the mandu to the soup and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are cooked through.
- Stir in the chopped green onions, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If using, slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the soup, stirring gently to form egg ribbons.
- Serve the Mandu Guk hot, garnished with nori strips, and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 25g
Prep and Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings:
- Serves: 4-6 people
Mandu Guk is a satisfying and delicious soup, combining the comfort of dumplings with the richness of a savory broth. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a taste of Korean culinary tradition at home, whether as a special occasion dish or a comforting meal on a chilly day. Enjoy this heartwarming soup with family and friends!
