Why Jisoo Loves Sundubu Jjigae
Let’s talk BLINK comfort food. Sundubu jjigae (Korean soft tofu stew) is the K-food equivalent of a cozy Netflix binge with your bias on screen. And for Jisoo, it’s the go-to dish that warms her soul between takes—especially on the freezing Snowdrop set.
We first saw her tuck into this iconic stew behind the scenes, wrapped in a blanket, hair in rollers, and holding a piping hot bowl of sundubu. She’s not alone—BLINKs have been obsessed ever since.
But let’s be real. Not all of us have access to Korean chili flakes, fresh seafood, or anchovy broth. That’s where this Korean tofu stew with American ingredients saves the day.
This post is your cheat code for cooking like Jisoo without leaving your zip code (or blowing your budget at an H-Mart).
Jump to the best section:
Pantry Hero: Comfort in a Bowl
This sundubu jjigae hack is:
- BLINK-approved – comfort food with a K-pop twist
- Weeknight-friendly – done in 25 minutes flat
- Budget-hackable – 7 ingredients, all from your local grocery store
You’ll need:
- Silken tofu (shelf-stable options = win)
- Campbell’s chicken broth (no anchovies required!)
- Frozen shrimp (or just tofu for a veggie vibe)
- Garlic, smoked paprika and chili powder
- Eggs
That’s it. The result? A Korean tofu stew with American ingredients that still tastes like Seoul.
And let’s talk comfort. This stew is spicy but soothing, rich without being heavy. It’s got that emotional damage-level heat with a soft tofu hug. Think of it as a K-drama plot twist in soup form: warm, a little spicy, and totally addictive.
Ingredient Breakdown: Substitutions & Hacks
The Base
- Silken tofu: Go for Mori-Nu or Nasoya. Soft and slurpable.
- Campbell’s chicken broth: Adds depth without seafood.
- Vegan option: Use veggie broth + 1 tsp white miso paste.
The Heat
- Chili powder + smoked paprika: Our fiery stand-in for gochugaru.
- Garlic: Because K-dramas aren’t the only thing that need drama.
Protein
- Frozen shrimp: Just thaw and drop in.
- No shrimp? Try Beyond Meat crumbles, rotisserie chicken, or mushrooms.
- Eggs: Optional but highly recommended for visual drama (and protein).
Bonus Pantry Power-Ups:
- Add a dash of soy sauce or tamari for umami depth.
- Stir in leftover rotisserie chicken from your last meal prep.
- Craving seafood? Add canned clams or imitation crab sticks from Walmart.
Step-by-Step Instructions (+ Troubleshooting)
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat oil in a saucepan. Add garlic, paprika, and chili powder. Sauté for 30 seconds. If it starts to burn—pull a Jisoo and say “Don’t Know What To Do” and lower that heat!
Step 2: Build the Broth
Pour in 2 cups of Campbell’s broth + ½ cup water. Gently add tofu (don’t break it up!). Simmer for 10 minutes.
Troubleshooting:
- Not spicy enough? Add sriracha.
- Too salty? Add a splash of water or unsalted broth.
- Need more umami? Try a spoonful of mushroom soy sauce or a bit of bouillon.
Step 3: Protein & Eggs
Add shrimp or tofu. Crack 1–2 eggs on top. Cover for 2–3 minutes until the eggs are poached just right—like Jisoo’s subtle expressions in a drama climax.
Serve bubbling hot. Add green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sesame oil. Bonus points for plating it in a stone bowl like you’re in Seoul.
Serving Suggestions: Pink Venom Vibes
- With Rice: Jasmine or instant. Nobody’s judging.
- Jennie’s Kimchi Fried Rice Hack: Double down on the BLINK menu. Check it out here → BTS Kimchi Fried Rice Hack with American Ingredients
- K-Drama Mode: Watch Snowdrop, eat sundubu, cry over slow-burn heartbreak.
- Extra Heat: Serve with spicy pickled radish or a side of kimchi for a full Seoul vibe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use firm tofu?
You can, but it’s giving “stiff lead actor in a rom-com.” Silken tofu is the heartthrob of this stew for Korean Tofu Stew with American Ingredient.
I only have smoked sausage. Is that weird?
It’s not traditional, but you do you. Call it the Kill This Love remix.
Can I make it in advance?
Absolutely. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.
What if I want to meal prep this?
Portion the broth separately, then add fresh tofu and eggs when reheating for maximum drama.
Have additional inquiries?
We are here to help. Let’s engage in a conversation.
Pro Tips from a Seoul Kitchen
- Add a dollop of doenjang (fermented soy paste) for real-deal flavor.
- Fried shallots = crispy top-tier garnish.
- No lid? Use foil or a plate when poaching eggs.
- Want heat? Sprinkle Tajín or cayenne.
- Flavor bomb: Toss in a teaspoon of kimchi juice or pickle brine to boost tang.
BLINK bonus: Add a drizzle of sesame oil just before serving for that rich, nutty finish.
Pair This Dish With…
- Playlist: BLACKPINK’s Born Pink album (cue “Typa Girl” while stirring).
- Drink: Trader Joe’s Sparkling Yuzu, or iced barley tea (buy from H-Mart or online).
- Sides: Instant rice, seaweed snacks, pickled radish, or leftover kimchi.
- Dessert: Black sesame mochi or matcha cookies from Costco or Tesco.
Share Your Masterpiece!
Post your Korean Tofu Stew with American Ingredient on Instagram and tag @theworldspalette_ with the hashtag #BLINKStewHack. Bonus points for Jisoo-themed mugs or Snowdrop references. We’ll repost the most Shut Down-worthy creations.
More BLINK-Approved Recipes You’ll Love
- BTS Kimchi Fried Rice Hack with American Ingredients – Sauerkraut + takeout rice = tastebud explosion.
- Jennie-Inspired Honey Butter Corn Toast Hack (coming soon!)
- K-pop Ramen Hacks: What Would V Cook at 2AM?
BLINK Pantry Starter Kit
Want to recreate more K-idol dishes with American pantry staples? Start with these must-haves:
- Silken tofu (shelf-stable)
- Campbell’s chicken or veggie broth
- Garlic (fresh or jarred)
- Smoked paprika, chili powder
- Frozen shrimp or Beyond Meat
- Soy sauce or tamari
- Sesame oil & sesame seeds
These basics let you make 80% of your fave K-food with 20% effort.
A Little Stew, A Lot of Love: K-Food for the Soul
Food is memory, mood, and fandom in one delicious bite. Whether you’re cosplaying Jisoo in your kitchen Food is memory, mood, and fandom in one delicious bite. Whether you’re cosplaying Jisoo in your kitchen or just trying to survive finals with a bowl of something warm, this Korean tofu stew with American ingredients brings you a little closer to your K-drama dreams.
It’s not just about convenience—it’s about connection. Every scoop of tofu is a hug from your bias, every sip of broth a throwback to your favorite Snowdrop scene. And every time you swap gochugaru for chili powder or use Campbell’s broth instead of anchovy stock, you’re proving that love for Korean food (and idols!) knows no borders.
Tag your BLINK friends, plan a stew night, and remember: The best recipes are the ones that feel like home—even when they taste like Seoul ♥
Jisoo’s Sundubu Jjigae Hack (Korean Tofu Stew with American Ingredients)
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 garlic cloves minced (or 1 tsp jarred garlic)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder adjust to taste
- 2 cups Campbell’s chicken broth or veggie broth + 1 tsp miso paste for vegan
- ½ cup water
- 1 pack silken tofu Mori-Nu or Nasoya, shelf-stable
- 100 g frozen shrimp thawed (or tofu, Beyond Meat, etc.)
- 2 eggs optional, for poaching
- 1 tsp soy sauce optional, for flavor boost
- Sesame oil chopped scallions, sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Build the Broth:
- Pour in chicken broth and water. Gently add the whole silken tofu block. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.
Add Protein:
- Stir in thawed shrimp or tofu substitute. Let cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
Poach the Eggs:
- Crack eggs directly into the simmering stew. Cover the pot and cook for 2–4 minutes until the whites are set but yolks remain runny.
Season & Serve:
- Taste and add soy sauce if needed. Serve hot with optional garnishes like sesame oil, scallions, or sesame seeds. Best paired with rice or kimchi.
Notes
- Spice Swap: No gochugaru? Smoked paprika + chili powder = magic.
- Vegan Version: Use veggie broth + tofu, skip eggs.
- Protein Options: Sub shrimp with mushrooms, Beyond Meat, or even rotisserie chicken.
- Upgrade It: Add a spoonful of kimchi juice or a dash of sesame oil for Seoul-level flavor.
- Storage Tip: Stew keeps well in the fridge for 3 days. Reheat gently and add fresh egg when ready to serve.
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