Beef Tendon Gumtang: A Collagen-Rich Korean Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef Tendon Gumtang is a traditional Korean soup known for its deep, umami-packed broth and its impressive collagen content. This dish is slow-simmered, allowing the beef tendons to break down into a silky, gelatinous texture that enhances both the flavor and nutritional benefits of the soup. If you love hearty, comforting meals that promote joint and skin health, this dish is a must-try. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can enjoy it plain, pair it with rice, or customize it with your favorite seasonings and garnishes.

Ingredients

• Beef tendons
• Beef bones (such as knuckle or marrow bones)
• Garlic cloves
• Onion
• Green onions
• White radish (Korean mu)
• Water
• Salt
• Pepper
• Soy sauce (optional)
• Sesame oil (for garnish)
• Cooked rice (for serving)
• Kimchi (for serving)

Directions

1. Prepare the Beef Tendons and Bones: Rinse the beef tendons and bones thoroughly under cold water. Soak them in fresh water for about an hour to remove excess blood and impurities.
2. Blanch the Bones and Tendons: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the beef tendons and bones. Boil for about 10 minutes, then discard the water and rinse the ingredients under running water to remove any scum.
3. Simmer for the Broth: Refill the pot with fresh water and add the cleaned beef tendons, bones, whole garlic cloves, onion, green onions, and white radish. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 6-8 hours. The longer it simmers, the richer and more gelatinous the broth will become.
4. Strain the Broth: Once the tendons are soft and gelatinous, remove them from the pot and set them aside. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids.
5. Slice the Tendons: Allow the beef tendons to cool slightly, then slice them into bite-sized pieces.
6. Season the Soup: Return the strained broth to the pot and add the sliced beef tendons. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a richer umami flavor, add a dash of soy sauce.
7. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and drizzle with sesame oil. Serve alongside cooked rice and kimchi for a complete meal.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) or a spoonful of gochujang (fermented chili paste) for a spicier twist.
• Vegetable Boost: Incorporate mushrooms, bok choy, or other vegetables for added depth and nutrition.
• Different Protein Cuts: While beef tendons are the star, you can add brisket or shank for extra meatiness.
• Clearer Broth: If you prefer a more transparent broth, regularly skim off excess fat and impurities during simmering.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 1 hour (including soaking time)
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours
• Total Time: 7-9 hours
• Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The broth may solidify due to the collagen, but it will liquefy upon reheating.
• Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

How does Beef Tendon Gumtang benefit health?

This soup is packed with collagen, which supports joint health, improves skin elasticity, and promotes gut health.

Can I make this soup in a pressure cooker?

Yes, using a pressure cooker can significantly cut down on cooking time. Simmer for about 90 minutes on high pressure instead of 6-8 hours.

How do I make the broth less greasy?

Chilling the soup in the fridge will cause the fat to solidify on the surface, making it easy to remove before reheating.

What can I serve with Beef Tendon Gumtang?

Rice, kimchi, pickled radish, and simple vegetable side dishes complement this soup well.

Can I use store-bought broth instead of making my own?

While homemade broth provides the best depth of flavor, you can use store-bought bone broth as a shortcut.

How do I make the broth more flavorful?

Let the soup simmer longer, add more garlic and onions, and season gradually to enhance the taste.

Is this soup keto-friendly?

Yes, it is naturally low in carbs, making it suitable for a keto diet when served without rice.

Can I add noodles instead of rice?

Absolutely! Korean wheat noodles or glass noodles work well in this dish.

How do I prevent the tendons from becoming too soft?

Keep an eye on them during the simmering process and remove them once they are tender but still hold their shape.

Can I reheat the soup multiple times?

Yes, but repeated reheating can break down the collagen too much. It’s best to portion out what you need.

Conclusion

Beef Tendon Gumtang is a deeply nourishing, collagen-rich Korean soup that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a comforting meal. Its slow-cooked broth is packed with flavor and health benefits, making it a fantastic addition to your cooking repertoire. Whether you enjoy it plain or with your favorite Korean side dishes, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and savor the rich, restorative flavors of this traditional dish!

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