How to cook korean beef stew (yukejang) in 10 easy steps

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Korean cuisine with this comprehensive guide on how to cook beef stew Korean style. This hearty and comforting dish, known as “yukgaejang,” is a symphony of savory, spicy, and umami notes that will warm your soul and delight your taste buds.

Ingredients for Beef Stew Korean Style

• 1 pound beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch fresh ginger, peeled and minced
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup sliced carrots
• 1/2 cup sliced celery
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Step-by-Step Instructions for Beef Stew Korean Style

1. Marinate the Beef:

In a large bowl, combine the beef cubes, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

2. Brown the Beef:

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, ensuring they are well-seared on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same pot, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

4. Deglaze the Pot:

Add the beef broth, water, and browned beef to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.

5. Add the Carrots and Celery:

Stir in the carrots and celery. Simmer for an additional 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

6. Thicken the Stew:

In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the stew, stirring constantly until thickened.

7. Adjust Seasonings:

Taste the stew and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more soy sauce for saltiness, gochujang for spiciness, or brown sugar for sweetness.

Finishing Touches for Beef Stew Korean Style

• Garnish with Green Onions and Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped green onions and cilantro over the stew before serving.
• Serve with Rice: Traditionally, beef stew Korean style is served with a side of steamed rice. The rice absorbs the flavorful broth, creating a satisfying and balanced meal.
• Enjoy the Warmth and Comfort: Savor the rich and hearty flavors of beef stew Korean style, letting it warm your body and soul on a cold day.

Variations on Beef Stew Korean Style

• Spicy Beef Stew: Increase the amount of gochujang to taste for a spicier stew.
• Sweet Beef Stew: Add an additional tablespoon of brown sugar for a sweeter and more balanced flavor.
• Vegetable Beef Stew: Add other vegetables to your stew, such as potatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• Seafood Beef Stew: Add shrimp, mussels, or clams to create a seafood-infused version of beef stew Korean style.

Tips for Cooking Beef Stew Korean Style

• Choose the Right Beef: Chuck roast or brisket are excellent cuts for beef stew Korean style as they have a good amount of marbling and connective tissue, which will tenderize during cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Brown the beef in batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure even browning.
• Simmer for Tenderness: Allow the stew to simmer for at least an hour, or longer if desired, to develop deep flavors and tenderize the beef.
• Taste and Adjust: Seasonings can vary depending on personal preferences, so taste the stew and adjust the flavors as needed.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

• Can I use other cuts of beef for this stew?

Yes, you can use other cuts such as short ribs or flank steak, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

• Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the stew in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

• Can I freeze beef stew Korean style?

Yes, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.