When you crave something hearty, bold, and deeply satisfying, Kimchi Beef Noodle Soup delivers on every level. Combining tender beef, spicy kimchi, and chewy noodles in a rich, savory broth, this dish brings the essence of Korean comfort food right to your kitchen.
Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a flavorful pick-me-up, this soup balances heat, umami, and tang beautifully — a one-pot meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent.
Ingredients
Serves 4
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 pound (450 g) beef sirloin or ribeye, thinly sliced
- 1 cup kimchi, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 4 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 6 ounces (170 g) noodles (ramen, udon, or rice noodles)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (shiitake or cremini)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: sesame seeds, extra kimchi, or a soft-boiled egg
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Heat sesame oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add thinly sliced beef and cook for 2–3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Kimchi
- In the same pot, add garlic, ginger, and chopped kimchi.
- Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant — this deepens the flavor of the broth.
Step 3: Build the Broth
- Pour in beef broth, soy sauce, gochujang, and rice vinegar.
- Stir well, scraping up any browned bits for extra depth.
- Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles and Vegetables
- Add sliced mushrooms and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add noodles directly to the broth and cook according to package directions (usually 5–7 minutes).
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Return cooked beef to the pot and stir to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper as needed.
- Ladle into bowls and top with green onions, sesame seeds, and optional garnishes.
Serving Suggestions
- Add a soft-boiled egg for extra richness.
- Serve with steamed dumplings or scallion pancakes for a complete meal.
- For extra spice, stir in more gochujang or a drizzle of chili oil before serving.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 29 g |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
Nutritional Notes:
- Kimchi adds probiotics and gut-friendly bacteria.
- Beef provides high-quality protein and iron.
- Gochujang delivers a balance of heat, umami, and slight sweetness.
- Noodles make the dish filling, while mushrooms contribute extra umami depth.
Tips for the Perfect Kimchi Beef Noodle Soup
- Use aged kimchi for a stronger, tangier flavor.
- Substitute tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian variation.
- Make the broth ahead of time — it tastes even better the next day.
- Add bok choy, spinach, or bean sprouts for more texture and nutrients.
Kimchi Beef Noodle Soup is more than a meal — it’s a comforting experience packed with layers of spicy, savory, and tangy goodness. Whether you’re a fan of Korean cuisine or just looking to spice up your soup routine, this recipe delivers a restaurant-worthy dish right from your own kitchen.
Each spoonful offers warmth, depth, and satisfaction — the perfect bowl to brighten your day and nourish your soul.