The dish rests on soft, barely-set sundubu tofu that you spoon straight into the pot so it stays in creamy clouds. The technique that makes it is blooming gochugaru in oil first to build a red chili base, which turns the broth glossy and deeply spicy rather than just watery and hot.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep10 min
Cook20 min
Makes2 servings
CuisineKorean
Cost$
Dairy-free
Contains eggs · gluten · fish · soy · sesame
Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for2servings
Soft silken tofu
Uncurdled sundubu tofu breaks into custardy clouds; firm tofu misses the whole texture.
Bloom the chiliHeat sesame oil in a pot, add gochugaru and garlic, and stir 1 minute over low heat until the oil turns bright red. Don't let it burn or the broth goes bitter.
Build brothPour in the stock and soy sauce, bring to a boil, and simmer 5 minutes to meld.
Add tofuSpoon in the soft tofu in large chunks and simmer 5 minutes; don't stir hard or it breaks up completely.
Crack the eggSlide a raw egg into the center, scatter scallion, and serve immediately while the broth is still furiously bubbling so the egg poaches at the table.
Can you make Sundubu Jjigae in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Sundubu Jjigae? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Sundubu Jjigae ahead of time? — Best fresh
Best made fresh and served soon — it loses its edge standing around. You can prep the parts ahead, but finish and serve it close to the table.
Is Sundubu Jjigae gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
Is Sundubu Jjigae vegan? — No
No — it contains seafood, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
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