How to Make Korean Seaweed Soup (Miyeok Guk): A Step-by-Step Guide

Korean seaweed soup, known as Miyeok Guk (미역국), is a traditional and nutritious dish enjoyed for its rich flavors and health benefits. Commonly served on birthdays and postpartum recovery, this soup is simple to prepare and versatile, as it can be made with beef, seafood, or even vegan ingredients. Below is a comprehensive guide to making this delicious soup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here are the basic ingredients for a classic beef-based Miyeok Guk:

15g dried seaweed (miyeok or wakame)

120g beef (chuck, brisket, or sirloin), sliced into small pieces

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 ½ tablespoons soy sauce (soup soy sauce preferred)

1 teaspoon minced garlic

5 cups water

Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional: Substitute beef with seafood (mussels, clams, or shrimp) for a different flavor profile or use shiitake mushrooms for a vegan version.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Seaweed

Soak the dried seaweed in cold water for 10–15 minutes until it softens and expands.

Drain the water and rinse the seaweed thoroughly to remove excess salt.

Squeeze out any remaining water and cut the seaweed into bite-sized pieces if necessary.

2. Season the Beef

In a small bowl, season the sliced beef with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Let it sit while you prepare other ingredients.

3. Sauté Ingredients

Heat a medium-sized pot over medium heat and add sesame oil.

Add the prepared seaweed and seasoned beef to the pot. Stir-fry for about 2–3 minutes until the beef is partially cooked.

4. Add Garlic and Soy Sauce

Stir in minced garlic and soy sauce. Mix well to coat the ingredients evenly.

5. Simmer the Soup

Pour in 5 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20–30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.

6. Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt or soy sauce if needed.

For a richer flavor, add a splash of sesame oil just before serving.

Tips for Perfect Miyeok Guk

Choose Quality Seaweed: Look for dark green dried miyeok at Korean grocery stores or online. Avoid over-soaking as it may lose its flavor.

Use Soup Soy Sauce: This type of soy sauce is lighter in color but richer in umami, perfect for soups.

Experiment with Broth: For added depth, use anchovy or beef broth instead of plain water.

Make It Vegan: Replace beef with shiitake mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based option.

Storage: Miyeok Guk freezes well, so make extra portions for future meals.

Why Is Miyeok Guk Special?

Miyeok Guk is more than just a soup; it holds cultural significance in Korea:

It’s traditionally served on birthdays to honor mothers who ate it after childbirth.

Packed with nutrients like iodine, calcium, and iron, it’s considered excellent for health and recovery.

Conclusion

Making Korean seaweed soup at home is simple yet rewarding. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or craving a comforting meal, Miyeok Guk offers rich flavors and nourishment in every bowl. Pair it with steamed rice and side dishes like kimchi for an authentic Korean dining experience!