Kimchi Vegetable Soup With Oysters
Different brands of kimchi, the traditional Korean condiment made with fermented cabbage, usually have different vegetables added to them. The brand used in this recipe includes carrots and peppers, which give the flavor of this easy soup added dimension. When choosing a kimchi, opt for one that is not too sour, so the oysters will not be overpowered. Taste the kimchi to assess its spiciness, and adjust the seasoning for this dish accordingly.
"Select" oysters are what you'll usually find in the seafood department of grocery stores; the term refers to their size.
If you plan to make this soup in advance, refrigerate it without the oysters or spinach. Once the soup is reheated, they can be added just before serving.
Ingredients
- 7 cups water
- 1 tablespoon dashi powder (available at Asian markets and at Whole Foods Markets)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon peeled, finely grated ginger root
- 1/4 cup oyster sauce
- 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean spicy chili paste), such as Annie Chun’s
- 16 ounces medium spicy cabbage kimchi, such as Sunja's (see headnote)
- 2 cups (6 ounces) sliced shiitake mushroom caps
- 4 cups packed baby spinach, coarsely chopped
- 1 quart shucked select oysters and their liquor (see headnote)
- 2 scallions, white and light-green parts, chopped (1/2 cup)
Directions
Step 1
Combine the water, dashi powder, fish sauce, ginger, oyster sauce, gochujang, kimchi and mushrooms in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally, then reduce the heat to medium, cover and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld.
Step 2
(At this point, the soup can be cooled, covered and refrigerated for 1 or 2 days.)
Step 3
Stir in the spinach and oysters; cook uncovered for about 4 minutes, so the edges of the oysters begin to curl.
Step 4
Ladle among individual bowls. Garnish with the chopped scallions; serve immediately.