Making Low-Calorie Kimchi Soup with Stevia and Allulose
Introduction to Low-Calorie Kimchi Soup
Kimchi soup, a traditional Korean dish, is renowned for its spicy, tangy flavors and nutritional benefits. However, for those mindful of calorie intake, traditional recipes might seem daunting. Fortunately, with the integration of low-calorie sweeteners like stevia and allulose, you can enjoy this delightful dish without the guilt.
Understanding Stevia and Allulose
Before diving into the recipe, it's essential to understand the role of stevia and allulose in transforming traditional dishes into healthier versions. Stevia is a natural sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia plant. It’s notable for being much sweeter than sugar with zero calories.
Allulose, on the other hand, is a rare sugar found naturally in small amounts in certain fruits. It has about 70% of the sweetness of sugar but only a fraction of the calories. Both sweeteners offer a way to maintain the savory-sweet balance in kimchi soup without adding extra calories.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this low-calorie kimchi soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of well-fermented kimchi, chopped
- ½ pound (about 225g) of pork shoulder or belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons of gochujang (Korean red pepper paste)
- 1 teaspoon of stevia
- 5 cups of water
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 package (14 ounces or 396g) of tofu, cut into bite-sized cubes
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Base:
In a large pot, combine the chopped kimchi, pork pieces, gochujang, and stevia.
Stir the mixture over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the pork is slightly cooked and the flavors meld.
2. Add Water and Simmer:
Pour in the 5 cups of water and bring the soup to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes. This allows the pork to become tender and the flavors to deepen.Allrecipes
3. Incorporate Tofu and Green Onions:
Gently add the tofu cubes into the soup and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes. Add the chopped green onions just before turning off the heat to retain their fresh flavor.
Serve:
Ladle the hot kimchi soup into bowls and serve immediately with steamed rice and your choice of Korean side dishes (banchan).
Conclusion: Enjoying Guilt-Free Flavors
With this recipe, you can savor the rich flavors of kimchi soup without worrying about calorie intake. The use of stevia and allulose ensures that you enjoy sweetness that complements the spicy undertones without compromising your dietary goals.