As the chilly winds rustle through the trees, I can’t help but crave a steaming bowl of Tasty Korean Winter Soup. This delightful dish is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl that wraps you in warmth and comfort. With tender beef short ribs, velvety tofu, and a medley of vibrant vegetables simmered in a rich broth, this recipe quickly becomes a favorite in our household. Not only is it incredibly satisfying, but it also offers a nourishing upgrade that’s perfect for those cozy nights when takeout just won’t do. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just dipping your toes into Korean cuisine, you’ll appreciate how simple it is to create this knockout dish—plus, it’s versatile with gluten-free and vegetarian options! Ready to warm up your kitchen and fill your heart? Let’s dive into making this wholesome soup together!

Why is this Korean Winter Soup special?

Comforting Taste: This Tasty Korean Winter Soup is like a warm hug, filled with tender beef short ribs and silky tofu that melt in your mouth.
Easy to Customize: With substitutes like portobello mushrooms or seitan for a vegetarian twist, this recipe is perfect for any dietary preference.
Nutrient-rich: Packed with essential ingredients, it’s a nourishing option for those colder days when you need a boost.
Quick Cleanup: Make this delightful dish in one pot, simplifying your time in the kitchen and making cleanup a breeze.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s sure to impress everyone from seasoned chefs to those simply looking for a comforting bowl of soup. Try pairing it with Colcannon Soup Flavorful for even more comforting flavors!

Tasty Korean Winter Soup Ingredients

Get ready to create a heartwarming dish with these easy-to-find ingredients!

For the Broth

Beef Short Ribs – Provides rich flavor and tender texture in the broth; substitute with beef shank or oxtail for a similar taste.
Water – The base for your rich and savory broth; essential for the soup’s heartiness.
Ginger (fresh) – Enhances warmth and flavor; slice or grate for the best results.
Garlic – Adds depth and richness; chop for a stronger flavor.
Yellow Onion – Aromatic base for the broth; can use regular onions if Korean leeks are unavailable.
Sea Salt – Enhances overall seasoning; adjust to taste based on soy sauce used.

For the Vegetables

Radish (Korean or Daikon) – Adds a crunchy texture that absorbs flavors; slice thinly for quicker cooking.
Green Onions – Provides a fresh kick and garnish; can substitute with chives if desired.

For the Flavor Boost

Guk Ganjang (Korean soup soy sauce) – Balances the broth’s flavor for that authentic taste; substitute with regular soy sauce with a dash of fish sauce, or use tamari for a gluten-free option.
Tofu – Adds protein and creaminess; use firm tofu for better texture.

With these ingredients gathered, you’re just moments away from indulging in a Tasty Korean Winter Soup that will warm your heart and soul!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tasty Korean Winter Soup

Step 1: Soak the Ribs
Begin by soaking the beef short ribs in cold water for 1 hour. This step draws out excess blood and impurities, helping create a clearer broth. If you’re short on time, you can flash boil the ribs by placing them in boiling water for a couple of minutes, then discarding the water and starting the broth preparation.

Step 2: Prepare Aromatics
While the ribs are soaking, prepare your aromatics. Cut the yellow onion into quarters without peeling, slice the fresh ginger, and chop the garlic. Trim and set aside the green onions. These ingredients will create a flavorful base for your Tasty Korean Winter Soup.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Pot
In a large stock pot, combine the soaked beef short ribs, ginger, onion quarters, chopped garlic, and 10 cups of water. Stir gently to mix the ingredients. This will form the basis of your comforting broth.

Step 4: Boil the Broth
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium. Watch as foam rises to the top, skim it off using a ladle to ensure your broth remains clear and delicious for the Tasty Korean Winter Soup.

Step 5: Simmer for Flavor
Lower the heat to medium-low, allowing the soup to simmer uncovered for 1 hour. During this time, continue to skim off any foam that accumulates. The aromatic scents will fill your kitchen, signaling that your broth is developing rich flavors.

Step 6: Add Radishes
After simmering for 1 hour, add the thinly sliced radish to the pot. This ingredient adds a crunchy texture to the soup. Continue to simmer for an additional 20 minutes or until the radish is tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 7: Final Seasoning
Once the radish is tender, discard the aromatics, leaving only the broth and beef ribs in the pot. Season the Tasty Korean Winter Soup with guk ganjang and sea salt to taste, then add additional chopped garlic if desired. Let it simmer for about 10 more minutes for the flavors to meld perfectly.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the warm soup into bowls, ensuring each serving gets a piece of tender beef and radish. Top with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of black pepper for added zest. This soul-warming Tasty Korean Winter Soup pairs beautifully with a side of rice for a complete meal.

What to Serve with Hearty Korean Winter Soup?

Enjoy a cozy evening by pairing your bowl of warmth with complementary sides that elevate this dining experience.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, jasmine rice absorbs the rich broth perfectly, offering a satisfying base for each bite.
Kimchi: This tangy Korean fermented side adds a zesty kick and crunch, beautifully balancing the savory flavors of the soup.
Savory Pancakes: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, savory pancakes add texture and make for a delightful addition to your meal.
Miso Salad: A fresh and tangy miso salad brings brightness and crunch, contrasting with the warmth of the soup.
Grilled Veggies: Charred seasonal vegetables add smoky flavors and nourishing elements, enhancing your comforting soup experience.
Herbal Tea: A cup of warm herbal tea soothes and complements the rich flavors, providing a calming finish to your meal.

Expert Tips for Tasty Korean Winter Soup

Soaking Matters: Thoroughly soak the beef short ribs to ensure a clearer broth. This step removes blood and impurities that can cloud the soup.
Skimming Foam: Regularly skim off the foam while simmering. This practice helps achieve a clean and flavorful broth, enhancing the overall taste of your Tasty Korean Winter Soup.
Seasoning Adjustments: Be mindful of seasoning, especially when using substitute ingredients like soy sauce or tamari. Taste as you go, adjusting the flavors for the best results.
Ingredient Quality: Use fresh ingredients, particularly garlic and ginger, to elevate the flavor profile. Quality aromatics make a significant difference in the soup’s depth.
Simmer Time: Allow the soup to simmer adequately—this is key for infusing all the wonderful flavors. The longer it simmers, the richer your Tasty Korean Winter Soup will become.

How to Store and Freeze Tasty Korean Winter Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen and develop, making each reheat even better!

Freezer: Freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to restore consistency.

Portioning: For convenience, freeze in individual portions. This makes it easy to enjoy a warm bowl of Tasty Korean Winter Soup whenever you need comfort!

Make Ahead Options

These Tasty Korean Winter Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to save time! You can soak the beef short ribs and prepare the aromatics (onion, ginger, and garlic) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate them in a sealed container. The broth can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just ensure to cool it completely before storing to preserve the flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, reheat the broth, add the radish, and simmer until tender. This meal prep strategy allows you to savor a comforting, home-cooked bowl with minimal effort on a chilly evening!

Variations & Substitutions for Tasty Korean Winter Soup

Feel free to get creative with your Tasty Korean Winter Soup! These variations allow you to personalize your bowl of comfort.

Vegetarian Option: Swap beef short ribs for portobello mushrooms or seitan, bringing a delightful umami flavor without meat.
Gluten-Free: If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of guk ganjang or regular soy sauce while maintaining the delicious flavor.
Chicken or Pork: Substitute the beef with chicken thighs or pork for a leaner take, offering new flavors and textures that are equally hearty.
Extra Veggies: Add vegetables like bok choy, spinach, or carrots to enhance nutrition and color, perfecting your soup’s cozy appeal.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, stir in gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) to spice up your bowl—just a pinch will do!
Rich Sea Flavor: Consider adding some seaweed, like dried kelp or seaweed flakes, for a marine flavor that deepens the broth’s complexity.
Creamy Touch: If you love creaminess, mix in some coconut milk for an unexpected twist that harmonizes beautifully with the spices.

Try combining these ideas to amplify your experience! For more inspiration, check out Mushroom Soup Without or Turkey Vegetable Soup for additional comforting recipes that cater to different tastes.

Tasty Korean Winter Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of beef should I use for the soup?
I recommend using beef short ribs for the richest flavor and tenderness, but if you want a different taste, beef shank or oxtail works wonderfully as well. For a vegetarian version, try portobello mushrooms or seitan instead!

How should I store the leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers of your Tasty Korean Winter Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will not only keep it fresh but also deepen the flavors as it sits.

Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can! Just let your soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will maintain good quality for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat it on the stove.

What if my broth comes out cloudy?
No worries! A cloudy broth usually means impurities were left behind. To avoid this, soak the beef short ribs for an hour, then skim any foam off the top while simmering. If your broth is still cloudy, simply strain it through a fine mesh sieve before serving.

Is this soup suitable for my gluten-free diet?
Yes, indeed! Use tamari instead of guk ganjang or regular soy sauce to ensure your Tasty Korean Winter Soup remains gluten-free. You can still enjoy all that comforting flavor without worrying about dietary restrictions.

How do I know when the radish is cooked properly?
After adding the radish to the soup, cook it for about 20 minutes until tender. You’ll know it’s ready when it can be easily pierced with a fork. This step adds a delightful crunch and absorbs all the delicious flavors of your soup!

Comforting Tasty Korean Winter Soup to Warm Your Soul

This Tasty Korean Winter Soup is a comforting dish that combines tender beef short ribs, tofu, and vegetables in a rich broth.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 1 30

Soaking Time 1

Total Time 2 45

Servings: 4 bowls

Course: Soup

Cuisine: Korean

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Broth

2 pounds Beef Short Ribs Substitute with beef shank or oxtail for similar taste
10 cups Water Essential for the broth's heartiness
1 tablespoon Ginger (fresh) Slice or grate for best results
4 cloves Garlic Chop for stronger flavor
1 large Yellow Onion Can use regular onions if Korean leeks are unavailable
1 teaspoon Sea Salt Adjust to taste based on soy sauce used

For the Vegetables

1 large Radish (Korean or Daikon) Slice thinly for quicker cooking
2 stalks Green Onions Can substitute with chives if desired

For the Flavor Boost

1/4 cup Guk Ganjang (Korean soup soy sauce) Substitute with regular soy sauce with a dash of fish sauce for gluten-free option
1 block Tofu Use firm tofu for better texture

Equipment

large stock pot

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by soaking the beef short ribs in cold water for 1 hour.
While the ribs are soaking, prepare your aromatics by cutting the yellow onion, slicing the ginger, and chopping the garlic.
In a large stock pot, combine the soaked beef short ribs, ginger, onion quarters, chopped garlic, and 10 cups of water. Stir gently to mix.
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and skim off foam.
Lower heat to medium-low and allow the soup to simmer uncovered for 1 hour.
After 1 hour, add the thinly sliced radish and continue to simmer for an additional 20 minutes.
Once the radish is tender, discard the aromatics and season with guk ganjang and sea salt to taste.
Ladle the warm soup into bowls, topping with sliced green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 29gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 1000mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

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