**Introduction**
Seolleongtang is a classic Korean soup that has been beloved for centuries. Known for its milky-white, rich broth made by simmering ox bones for hours, this soup offers a deep and comforting flavor that is both nourishing and satisfying. Traditionally eaten as a hearty meal, Seolleongtang is often paired with rice and kimchi, making it a staple in Korean households, especially during colder months. Today, I’ll introduce you to this gentle yet flavorful soup and guide you through an authentic recipe for one serving.
**Main Content**
*Ingredients for One Serving:*
– Ox leg bones (beef bones) – 500g
– Beef brisket – 100g
– Garlic cloves – 2 pcs
– Water – 1.5 liters
– Salt – 1/2 tsp (adjust to taste)
– Ground black pepper – 1/4 tsp
– Green onions – 10g (finely sliced)
– Cooked white rice – 150g (optional, for serving)
– Kimchi – as desired (side dish)
*Step-by-Step Recipe:*
1. **Prepare the Bones:**
Place the ox bones in cold water and soak for 4-6 hours or overnight to remove blood and impurities. Change the water once or twice during soaking.
2. **Blanch the Bones:**
Drain the soaked bones and place them in a large pot. Cover with fresh cold water and bring to a rapid boil for 10 minutes. Discard this water, rinse bones with warm water to clean off residual scum.
3. **Make the Broth:**
Add the cleaned bones back to the pot. Pour 1.5 liters of fresh water. Add the whole garlic cloves. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Simmer covered for 4-5 hours, occasionally skimming off any foam or impurities.
4. **Cook the Beef Brisket:**
In the last hour of simmering, add the beef brisket to the pot so it cooks until tender. Once done, remove the brisket and slice thinly.
5. **Strain the Broth:**
Remove the bones and garlic from the broth. Strain the broth through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to achieve a clear, milky soup.
6. **Season the Soup:**
Pour one serving portion of the broth into a bowl. Add salt and ground black pepper to taste. Place sliced brisket on top, garnish with finely sliced green onions.
7. **Serve:**
Seolleongtang is traditionally served with plain white rice either mixed into the soup or on the side, accompanied by spicy kimchi.
**Conclusion**
Seolleongtang offers a subtle yet hearty taste of Korea’s culinary tradition, relying on slow simmering and simplicity to create complex flavors. It’s perfect if you want a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out. Try making it at home—you’ll find that patience in preparation pays off with an authentic and rewarding soup experience. Enjoy your bowl of nourishing Seolleongtang!
