Miyeok-guk
Miyeok-guk is a traditional Korean seaweed soup, typically made with wakame seaweed and a savory broth of beef, clams, or anchovies. It is a staple comfort food in Korea, often enjoyed on birthdays and as a restorative meal after childbirth. The dish is known for its deep umami flavor and simple, wholesome ingredients.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Miyeok-guk is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense dish that is a good source of protein and fiber, with minimal fat and carbohydrates. It provides a wealth of minerals, particularly iodine, calcium, and iron, along with vitamins A, C, and K, making it a highly nutritious choice.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 45 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbs | 4 g |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Iodine | 300 mcg |
| Calcium | 80 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Vitamin A | 120 mcg RAE |
| Vitamin C | 5 mg |
| Vitamin K | 30 mcg |
| Magnesium | 40 mg |
| Folate | 50 mcg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Miyeok-guk is deeply tied to celebrations and recovery; Koreans traditionally eat it on their birthday to honor their mother's sacrifice during childbirth. Nutritionally, seaweed is a rare plant-based source of vitamin B12 and is exceptionally rich in iodine, a mineral crucial for thyroid function that is often lacking in modern diets.
