Aliyawanders

This is beef sundubu jjigae – a hearty Korean stew. I ordered it from Sopoong at Aeon Mall Shah Alam for RM28.13, including delivery, and honestly, it was worth every sen.

The bowl was packed to the brim with beef slices, cabbage, tofu, mushrooms, and an egg. It even came with rice, pickles, and not one, but two canisters of kimchi (I requested extra, of course). Talk about value for money – and most importantly – a balanced meal in a bowl! If you dine at their restaurant, the kimchi and salads are bottomless too.

I’ve had sundubu jjigae from Dubuyo, Oiso, and Sopoong, and here’s my personal take:

• Oiso: Their broth has the strongest flavor – rich and bold. However, Oiso serves seafood sundubu jjigae, so it’s a slightly different experience.

• Dubuyo: The broth sits in the middle – not too strong, not too mild. Their beef sundubu jjigae uses thinly sliced meat, similar to shabu-shabu.

• Sopoong: The mildest broth of the three, but for me, it’s delicious and tastes just right. Their beef sundubu jjigae is loaded with regular beef slices, giving it a hearty, satisfying feel.

I like them all, and I don’t expect every restaurant to have the same style or recipe – that would be boring. Each version of sundubu jjigae has its own personality, which is what makes trying them fun.

All three restaurants have similar pricing for sundubu jjigae, so your choice depends on what you’re in the mood for—bold flavors, balance, or a meatier portion.

Sundubu jjigae is best enjoyed hot and with rice. Don’t forget to add a slice of kimchi with every bite for that extra kick! That’s why I always request extra kimchi.

Now, compare this sundubu jjigae from Sopoong to the tomyam I had yesterday for RM10 (excluding delivery). What did I get? A sad soup with three spoonfuls of chicken, a single lemongrass stalk, and a few onion slices floating around. The broth was about the same quantity as this sundubu, but that’s where the similarity ends.

Sure, sundubu jjigae is almost three times the price, but the difference in quality and quantity is no joke. I skipped the rice, which is why this whole bowl was for me and me alone. But the portion is so generous that it could easily work as a meal for two – just cook another serving of rice, and there you have it. Finally, something that not only fills my stomach but also makes me happy.

10/10, will order again.

This review reflects my personal opinions and experiences with the food and establishment mentioned. Taste preferences vary from person to person, so what I enjoy may not suit everyone. All food items featured are either purchased by me or provided as part of a collaboration, which will be disclosed if applicable. My goal is to provide an honest and unbiased review to help readers make informed decisions. Please check with the restaurant directly for updated menus, pricing, and dietary accommodations.

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