With the rising popularity of Korean cuisine in the U.S., more people are seeking out K-food. Among them, soondubu jjigae (soft tofu stew) has become a favorite dish for both locals and Korean expats, thanks to its warm, comforting, and rich flavors. Today, I’ll be sharing my experience with the BCD Tofu House, House Foods Tofu Soup Kit, which allows you to recreate the taste of BCD Tofu House Soondubu at home, even if you can’t visit one of their restaurants.
Table of Contents
- What is BCD Bukchang Dong Soondubu?
- Features of the House Foods Tofu Soup Kit
- Simple Cooking Instructions
- Personal Review & Recommendations
- Where to Buy
- Conclusion
1. What is BCD Tofu House (Bukchang Dong)
BCD Tofu House is a well-known Soon Tofu chain that originated in the LA area and has grown to become a leading name in the Korean food scene across the U.S. While the name “Bukchang Dong” comes from a district in Seoul, South Korea, BCD has adapted and thrived as a chain in the U.S., especially in places like LA’s Koreatown, where it gained immense popularity.
Key attractions of BCD Tofu House Soondubu:
- Bubbling hot tofu stew served in traditional stone pots
- A variety of delicious banchan (side dishes) served with every meal
- A hearty, healthy, and satisfying meal popular among both locals and tourists
2. Features of the House Foods Tofu Soup Kit
To help bring the authentic taste of BCD Soon Tofu to your home, House Foods has launched the Soondubu Soup Kit series. Here are the main features:
2.1 Convenient Packaging
- Comes with soft tofu and a flavor-packed seasoning sauce, eliminating the need for extra ingredient prep
- Just add water (or broth) and your choice of vegetables, seafood, or meat
2.2 Easy to Cook
- Simply boil water (or broth), stir in the sauce, and add the tofu
- Customize by adding ingredients like eggs, kimchi, seafood, or green onions for an upgraded meal
2.3 Two Spice Level Options
- Hot Flavor: Perfect for those who enjoy bold, spicy flavors
- Medium Hot: A milder option suitable for everyone, including kids
2.4 Versatile Use
- Primarily designed for soon tofu stew, but can also be used to create other hearty soups
- Great for home-cooked meals, camping trips, or quick meals on the go
3. Simple Cooking Instructions
Ingredients:
- House Foods Tofu Soup Kit (soft tofu + seasoning sauce)
- Water or broth (150ml)
- Optional ingredients: meat, seafood, vegetables, eggs
Steps:
- Boil: In a pot or stone bowl, bring 150ml of water (or broth) to a boil.
- Add sauce and tofu: Once the water is boiling, stir in the sauce and gently add the tofu.
- Customize: Add your favorite ingredients, such as meat, kimchi, seafood, or green onions, to enhance the flavor.
- Finish: Let it simmer until bubbling, then crack an egg into the stew for a richer taste. Serve hot with a bowl of rice for the full BCD experience.
4. Personal Review & Recommendations
4.1 Taste
The tofu was incredibly soft, and the broth had a deep, rich flavor reminiscent of dining at the actual BCD Tofu House restaurant. The Hot Flavor provided a satisfying, spicy kick for those who love bold flavors, while the Medium Hot was mild enough for children or those with a lower spice tolerance.
4.2 Convenience
The all-in-one pack made shopping and cooking hassle-free. Since the kit includes both tofu and sauce, there’s no need to buy additional seasonings or worry about portions.
4.3 Health Benefits
Tofu is made from soybeans, making it a healthy protein source. By adding vegetables and seafood, you can create a well-balanced meal.
4.4 Price & Availability
It’s easy to find at local Asian markets (like H Mart) across the U.S. and can also be ordered online from sites like Weee!. Compared to dining at the restaurant, it’s a more affordable way to enjoy Soondubu at home.
5. Where to Buy
- Local Asian grocery stores (e.g., H Mart)
- Online platforms like Weee!
- Regional online Asian grocery stores (check availability based on your location)
Tip: Check the available spice levels (Hot Flavor / Medium Hot) before purchasing.
Conclusion
Thanks to BCD Tofu House and the House Foods Tofu Soup Kit, it’s now easier than ever to enjoy authentic Korean Soondubu stew in the U.S. without visiting a restaurant. Whether you’re craving a quick homemade meal or planning a cozy family dinner, this kit offers a simple yet delicious solution.
In summary:
- Recreate the stone pot soondubu experience with a quick and easy recipe
- Choose your preferred spice level (Hot Flavor / Medium Hot)
- Customize with vegetables, seafood, meat, or eggs for a heartier meal
For more ideas, check out:
When you’re craving a warm, hearty, and spicy bowl of soondubu jjigae, give the House Foods Tofu Soup Kit a try. It’s a convenient and tasty way to enjoy a classic Korean comfort dish at home!
(This post is based on personal experience, and preferences may vary depending on individual taste.)