Spicy Korean Fish Stew

Growing up, some of my most cherished memories with my Korean grandmother involved watching her transform the remnants of a whole fish into something magical. After we'd enjoyed grilled fish for dinner, she would gather the bones, head, and any leftover meat, declaring that the best part was yet to come. Her maeuntang was a revelation – a fiery, soul-warming stew that proved nothing should ever go to waste in a Korean kitchen. The way she'd carefully balance the heat of gochugaru with the sweetness of vegetables, creating a broth so flavorful it could make you forget the winter cold outside, taught me that Korean cooking is as much about resourcefulness as it is about flavor.

Maeuntang represents the very essence of Korean comfort food, where bold, spicy flavors meet hearty satisfaction in a single, steaming bowl. This iconic fish stew combines fresh fish with an array of vegetables in a robust, chili-laden broth that awakens every sense. The deep red color from Korean red pepper flakes signals the warming heat that follows, while the tender fish and crisp vegetables provide textural contrast that makes each spoonful a complete experience. Unlike mild fish soups from other cuisines, maeuntang embraces boldness, creating a dish that's both nourishing and invigorating.

What makes maeuntang particularly special is its perfect balance of intense heat and complex umami flavors that develop through careful layering of ingredients. The fish provides a clean, oceanic base that absorbs the spicy seasonings beautifully, while vegetables like radish, onions, and bean sprouts add their own subtle sweetness and crunch. The addition of doenjang (soybean paste) creates depth that elevates this from a simple spicy soup to a sophisticated stew worthy of any Korean table. The communal nature of sharing this bubbling pot brings families together, with everyone gathering around to enjoy the warming, restorative qualities that only a well-made maeuntang can provide.

In contemporary Korean dining, maeuntang continues to hold its place as the ultimate comfort food, appearing in everything from casual family dinners to restaurant menus specializing in fresh seafood. Modern variations might include different types of fish or additional vegetables, but the essential character remains unchanged – a spicy, satisfying stew that embodies the Korean philosophy of bold flavors and communal dining. Whether enjoyed after a day of fishing, as a cure for cold weather, or simply as a way to bring family together around the dinner table, maeuntang represents the enduring appeal of traditional Korean cooking that transforms simple ingredients into extraordinary experiences.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Authentic spicy Korean flavors that warm you from within

• Uses whole fish efficiently with minimal waste

• Perfect comfort food for cold weather

• Customizable spice level to suit your taste

• Great for sharing with family and friends

• Quick cooking time for a satisfying meal

What is Maeuntang?

Maeuntang (매운탕) is a traditional Korean spicy fish stew featuring fresh fish, vegetables, and a fiery red broth seasoned with gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) and doenjang (fermented soybean paste). The name literally means "spicy soup," and this beloved comfort food is known for its bold, warming flavors and its ability to use every part of the fish, from fillets to bones, creating a rich, satisfying meal that's perfect for sharing.

My Essential Korean Pantry contains several of these ingredients, specifically:

• Taekyung Korean Chili Flakes
• Kadoya Sesame Oil

Need help with what ingredients to stock? Check out My Essential Korean Pantry article. This article describes each essential ingredient with links to where you can buy them easily!