Korean ingredient guide
Doenjang
Korean soybean paste, 된장
Doenjang is one of those ingredients that makes Korean cooking at home easier. This guide explains how to use it, where to find it, and which recipes work well with it.
Recipes using this ingredient
Full ingredient guide
Doenjang, like gochujang and soy sauce, is one of the essential ingredients in Korean cooking. In rural areas, people often make it themselves, a process referred to as "jang making", where they produce soy sauce, gochujang, and doenjang from scratch. Of course, those living in cities who have family in the countryside often share homemade jang, so they don't need to worry about buying it. However, most people purchase store-bought versions.
In Germany, you can find three main brands of doenjang: Chung Jung One Sunchang, Sempio, and CJ Haechandle. All are reputable brands with good products. However, it's important to distinguish between ssamjang and doenjang. Ssamjang is a dipping sauce used specifically when eating ssam (Korean wraps).
Where to buy it
- Asian grocery store
- Korean online shop
- Large supermarkets with an Asian food section
How to use it
- Korean home cooking
- Banchan and side dishes
- Easy everyday meals
What to check
- Check the ingredient list and flavor.
- Start with a small package if you are new to it.
- Store it according to the package instructions after opening.
Can you substitute it?
If you cannot find it, use a simple alternative and adjust the flavor carefully. Fermented ingredients are often hard to replace exactly.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I buy Doenjang?
Asian grocery store, Korean online shop, Large supermarkets with an Asian food section
How do I use Doenjang?
Korean home cooking, Banchan and side dishes, Easy everyday meals
Can I substitute Doenjang?
If you cannot find it, use a simple alternative and adjust the flavor carefully. Fermented ingredients are often hard to replace exactly.
How should I store Doenjang?
Follow the storage instructions on the package.