Korean Cold Noodle Soup is a refreshing and flavorful dish that has stood the test of time. With chilled buckwheat noodles, crisp cucumber, juicy pear, and tender slices of beef or chicken, this dish combines bright textures with a tangy, icy broth. Each bite feels cooling, light, and satisfying — making it perfect for summer days or whenever you want a meal that is fresh yet comforting.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With minimal cooking and quick preparation, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality Korean classic at home. Traditionally enjoyed in Korea for centuries, cold noodle soups were once served in winter before becoming a beloved summer tradition. Today, it remains a staple in Korean cuisine and a favorite worldwide.
Whether you are serving it as a light lunch, a cooling appetizer, or a stand-alone dinner, Korean Cold Noodle Soup delivers a unique balance of savory, sweet, and refreshing flavors that you’ll return to again and again.
Recipe Yield: 2 servings
INGREDIENTS
6 oz buckwheat soba noodles
4 cups cold beef or chicken broth (unsalted)
4 oz cooked beef brisket or chicken breast, thinly sliced
1 boiled egg, halved
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1 cup ice cubes
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp sesame oil
1 small cucumber, julienned
1 small Asian pear, thinly sliced
1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
1 small red chili, thinly sliced (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Cook the noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add buckwheat soba noodles and cook according to package directions, usually 4–5 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water until fully cooled.
2. Prepare the broth: In a large bowl, whisk together cold broth, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil until sugar dissolves. Add ice cubes to keep it extra chilled.
3. Arrange the toppings: Divide noodles evenly into two deep bowls. Top each with cucumber, pear slices, beef or chicken, and half a boiled egg.
4. Pour and garnish: Pour cold broth over the noodles until just covered. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, green onions, and chili slices if using. Serve immediately while icy cold.
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Chill Everything First: Keep your broth, noodles, and toppings refrigerated before assembly to maintain the soup’s refreshing temperature.
- Balance Sweet and Tangy: Adjust rice vinegar and sugar slightly to match your preference, as the balance of flavors defines the dish.
- Upgrade the Broth: For a deeper flavor, simmer beef bones or chicken with aromatics ahead of time, then chill and use as your cold base.
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