Seaweed Soup with Mussels: A Deep, Comforting Flavor for Special Days

Recipe Summary

Seaweed soup is a beloved staple in Korean cuisine. By adding fresh mussels, the flavor becomes even more savory and soothing. This mussel seaweed soup is ideal for birthdays, family gatherings, or any time you want to serve a meal filled with care and nourishment.

Table of Contents

• 1. Why Mussel Seaweed Soup Stands Out
• 2. Ingredients and Preparation
• 3. Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
• 4. Ways to Enjoy and Customize
• 5. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why Mussel Seaweed Soup Stands Out

Adding fresh mussels to a traditional seaweed soup gives the broth a deep, clean flavor and enhances its nutritional value. Whether it's a special occasion or a healing moment, this soup brings comfort and warmth to the table.

2. Ingredients and Preparation (Serves 2)

• Dried seaweed: 10g (soaked in cold water for 10 minutes)
• Mussels: 200g (cleaned and bearded)
• Onion: 1/4 (thinly sliced)
• Green onion: 1/3 stalk (sliced diagonally)
• Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
• Sesame oil: 1 tbsp, Soy sauce for soup (guk ganjang): 1 tbsp, Salt: to taste

After soaking, squeeze the seaweed to remove excess water and cut into bite-sized pieces. Clean the mussels thoroughly under running water, removing beards and scrubbing the shells with a brush.

3. Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Soak the seaweed: Place dried seaweed in cold water for 10 minutes. Once soft, drain and chop.
2. Clean the mussels: Rinse well, remove beards, and scrub any dirt from the shells.
3. Sauté base ingredients: In a pot, heat sesame oil and stir-fry the garlic on low heat. Add onions and seaweed, cook for 2–3 more minutes.
4. Add mussels and water: Layer mussels over the sautéed mixture, pour in 800ml of water.
5. Simmer: Bring to a boil, skim any foam, reduce heat, and season with soy sauce.
6. Finish: Add green onions and simmer for 1 more minute. Adjust final seasoning with salt as needed.

Tip: For a richer broth, add a piece of kelp (dashima) while boiling and remove after 5 minutes.

4. Ways to Enjoy and Customize

• Daily side dish: Pairs well with kimchi and rice for a satisfying meal.
• Hangover soup: Refreshes the body after a night out with its clean taste.
• Low-calorie diet: Seaweed is rich in fiber and low in calories, great for healthy eating.
• Ingredient substitute: Use clams instead of mussels for a different seafood twist.

5. Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: What type of seaweed should I use?

  A: Dried cut seaweed is most convenient and gives a great texture and flavor.

• Q: My broth looks cloudy. Why?

  A: It’s likely due to unclean mussels. Be sure to rinse and scrub them thoroughly.

• Q: The soup is too salty. How do I fix it?

  A: Add more water and simmer for a few minutes to balance the flavor.

“A bowl of mussel seaweed soup not only nourishes the body, but also comforts the heart. Serve it warm to those you love.”