One of the delicacies you can find in Gangneung’s Chodang-dong is “soft tofu stew.” Unlike tofu made using seawater in other regions, Gangneung’s representative local dish, Chodang tofu, is made by pouring seawater into soybean water, giving it a smoother and deeper flavor compared to tofu from other areas.
Using seawater as a natural coagulant not only enhances the coagulation process but also enriches the tofu with minerals present in the seawater, bringing out the full flavor of the soybeans.
“Gangneung: Chodang Tofu Village”
In Gangneung, you can explore Chodang Tofu Village, which is not far from Gyeongpo Lake. If you head slightly southeast from the Heo Gyun and Heo Nanseolheon Memorial Park, you’ll find it.
Chodang Tofu Village offers various restaurants specializing in soft tofu stew. Among them, “Chodang Grandma’s Soft Tofu Stew” is particularly famous, so I decided to give it a try.
“Chodang Tofu Village: Chodang Grandma’s Soft Tofu Stew”
Chodang Grandma’s Soft Tofu Stew operates in a format reminiscent of a highway rest area, and it appears to have a high turnover rate. The restaurant’s size is quite substantial, with a spacious hall and numerous tables, allowing many people to dine at once.
“Menu at Chodang Grandma’s Soft Tofu Stew”
At Chodang Grandma’s Soft Tofu Stew, you’ll find a simple menu consisting of Soft Tofu Stew Set, Spicy Clam and Soft Tofu Stew, Mixed Tofu, and Tofu and Rice.
- Soft Tofu Stew Set: KRW 9,000
- Spicy Clam and Soft Tofu Stew: KRW 10,000
- Mixed Tofu: KRW 13,000
- Tofu and Rice: KRW 7,000
Additionally, they also serve Makgeolli (Korean rice wine) and Soju for those who want to enjoy some drinks.
“Soft Tofu Stew Set, Spicy Clam and Soft Tofu Stew, Mixed Tofu”
Since it was my first time trying Chodang tofu, I ordered and shared the Soft Tofu Stew Set, Spicy Clam and Soft Tofu Stew, and Mixed Tofu. The Soft Tofu Stew Set was indeed a classic representation of soft tofu stew, with white, unseasoned soft tofu as the main feature. It was a comfortable and easy meal.
The Spicy Clam and Soft Tofu Stew is a dish that one might associate with spicy tofu stew. It’s a spicy soup with clams added, providing a more stimulating taste compared to the Soft Tofu Stew Set.
Finally, the Mixed Tofu is exactly what it sounds like – eating tofu as is. Interestingly, here they wrap the tofu in perilla leaves or dip it in soy sauce for added flavor. Eating the tofu this way ensures a tasty experience.
“A Comfortable and Light Meal”
Since the menu mainly consists of soft tofu dishes, it was a comfortable and light meal. When traveling, heavy meals can sometimes make you feel uncomfortable, but with such soothing dishes, it’s a great place for a simple breakfast or lunch.
The restaurant’s operating hours make it suitable for breakfast or an early dinner.
“Gangneung: Chodang Grandma’s Soft Tofu Stew”
- Address: 77 Chodang Sundubu-gil, Gangneung, Gangwon-do, 25466, South Korea
- Phone: 033-652-2058
- Operating Hours: (Mon, Thu, Fri) 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM, (Sat, Sun) 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM, (Tue) 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM