Tasty Korean Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Tasty Korean Soup is not only incredibly flavorful, but it’s also a comforting and wholesome dish. The beef short ribs are slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat that infuses the broth with deep, savory flavors. The fresh radish and ginger add a bright, refreshing contrast to the richness of the beef, while the green onions provide a subtle layer of fragrance. It’s an ideal dish for those seeking a healthy, satisfying meal that is both delicious and full of heart.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs beef short ribs
• 10 cups water
• 1 whole yellow onion, with skin (if organic)
• 2 green onions or 1 Korean leek (for broth)
• 2 green onions or 1 Korean leek, sliced for topping
• 2 thick ginger slices
• 3-4 dried or fresh green onion roots (optional)
• 1/2 medium radish, quartered into thin slices
• 2 tablespoons chopped garlic or 5-6 whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce for soup (guk ganjang)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Beef Short Ribs: Rinse the beef short ribs under cold water to remove any impurities. Place the short ribs in a large pot and cover with 10 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, skimming off any foam that rises to the top to ensure a clear broth.
2. Simmer the Broth: Once the foam has been removed, add the yellow onion (with skin), green onions (or Korean leek), ginger slices, green onion roots (if using), radish, garlic, soy sauce, and sea salt to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 2-3 hours. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
3. Strain the Broth: After simmering, remove the beef short ribs from the pot and set aside. Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the vegetables and aromatics, leaving you with a clear, flavorful broth.
4. Shred the Beef: Once the beef has cooled enough to handle, remove the meat from the bones and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Discard the bones and return the shredded beef to the strained broth.
5. Final Seasoning: Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with additional sea salt and soy sauce if needed. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can add a little more soy sauce or salt, but be careful not to overdo it as the soup should maintain a delicate balance.
6. Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, topping each with fresh, sliced green onions (or Korean leek) for garnish. Serve with steamed rice and kimchi on the side for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: For a bit of heat, add a couple of sliced red chili peppers to the broth while it simmers or stir in a bit of gochujang (Korean chili paste) at the end for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the beef short ribs with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, tofu, or root vegetables for a vegetarian take on the soup.
• Beef Bone Broth: For a richer flavor, consider adding more beef bones or oxtail to the broth, which will result in a heartier and more collagen-rich soup.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The broth will thicken as it cools due to the gelatin from the beef, so you may need to add a little extra water when reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat. If it’s too thick, add water or more broth to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I use beef stew meat instead of short ribs?

Yes, you can substitute beef stew meat or any other cut of beef, but short ribs are ideal for their rich flavor and tenderness after slow cooking.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. After browning the beef and preparing the aromatics, add everything to the slow cooker with 10 cups of water and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Can I use a pressure cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a pressure cooker to speed up the process. After adding the ingredients to the pot, cook on high pressure for 45-60 minutes. Make sure to release the pressure naturally before straining the broth.

Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a bit of water to adjust the consistency.

What should I serve with this soup?

Tasty Korean Soup is traditionally served with steamed rice and a side of kimchi or pickled vegetables. You can also pair it with a light salad for added freshness.

Can I add noodles to the soup?

Yes, you can add noodles like udon or somen for a heartier meal. Add them during the last 10 minutes of simmering so they don’t overcook.

How can I adjust the saltiness of the soup?

If the soup is too salty, add more water or broth to dilute it. You can also add a little more radish or vegetables to balance out the saltiness.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. The flavors will develop even more as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

What type of radish should I use?

You can use any type of radish, but Korean white radishes (mu) are typically used in this soup for their mild, slightly sweet flavor. If they’re not available, daikon radishes are a good substitute.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is preferred for its aroma and depth of flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Just use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to substitute for the fresh garlic.

Conclusion

Tasty Korean Soup is a wonderfully comforting dish that combines tender beef short ribs, aromatic spices, and flavorful broth into a perfect meal. The combination of the savory broth, refreshing radish, and a hint of sweetness from the onion and apple creates a balanced, hearty dish. Whether you’re craving something warming on a cold day or looking for a dish to impress guests, this soup offers depth of flavor, richness, and authenticity that everyone will love.

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