Anchovy Broth for Korean Cooking

Method5 steps

1. 1

   Step 1: Choose one broth variant: basic in this step, enhanced in step 2, or full-flavor in steps 3–5. For basic broth, prepare only the basic-variant anchovies. If time allows, soak them in 6–8 cups water for at least 20 minutes. Bring to a moderate boil uncovered, reduce the heat to medium-high and boil for 10 minutes. Strain out the anchovies; the basic broth is ready.

   Basic broth boil, after any optional soaking · 10 minUses 10–12 medium to large dried anchovies · 6–8 cups water for basic broth

   
2. 2

   Step 2: For enhanced broth only, prepare the enhanced-variant anchovies and the two 3-inch pieces of dried kelp (2 pieces). If time allows, soak them in 6–8 cups water in a 3-quart pot for at least 20 minutes. Bring to a gentle boil uncovered, reduce to medium-high and boil for 10 minutes. Strain out the anchovies and kelp; the enhanced broth is ready.

   Enhanced broth boil, after any optional soaking · 10 minUses 10–12 medium to large dried anchovies · 2 pieces dried kelp (dashima), about 3-inch squares · 6–8 cups water for enhanced broth

   
3. 3

   Step 3: For full-flavor broth only, prepare the full-variant anchovies and kelp. Cut the Korean radish (4 oz) into large chunks, keep the half onion in one piece, and prepare the garlic (2–3) and white scallion parts. Include dried shiitake mushrooms and dried shrimp here if using these optional additions.

   Uses 10–12 medium to large dried anchovies · 2 pieces dried kelp (dashima), about 3-inch squares · 4 oz Korean radish, cut into large chunks · 1/2 small onion, kept in one piece · 2–3 garlic cloves · White parts of 2 scallions · Dried shiitake mushrooms (optional) · Dried shrimp (optional)

   
4. 4

   Step 4: Place the prepared full-flavor broth ingredients, including any optional mushrooms or shrimp, in a 5-quart pot with 8 cups water. Bring to a boil, reduce to medium-high and boil for 10 minutes. Remove the kelp, then continue boiling for another 10–15 minutes.

   Full broth: remove kelp after first 10 minutes · 25 minUses Prepared full-flavor broth ingredients · 8 cups water for full-flavor broth

   
5. 5

   Step 5: Strain the full-flavor broth and discard the remaining anchovies, vegetables and any optional mushroom or shrimp solids. The full-flavor broth is ready.

   Uses Cooked full-flavor broth