Doenjang

High school (ages 12+)
Food & Cooking

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/doenjang

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is Doenjang known for?Enhanced protein digestibility, probiotics, vitamins, and minerals
2. What is the primary components?Soybeans and brine
3. What is the core process?Controlled microbial fermentation
4. How is doenjang made?Soybeans are mixed with brine and left to ferment with helpful bacteria. The fermentation breaks down the beans into a tasty paste.
5. Why do people use doenjang in Korean food?It adds a rich, savory flavor to stews, soups, and dips. It also gives extra nutrition to the dishes.

Fermentation: A metabolic process where microorganisms convert complex organic compounds into simpler ones, altering flavor, texture, and nutritional value.
Umami: The fifth basic taste, characterized by a savory, brothy, or meaty flavor, often associated with glutamates.
Hydrolysis: A chemical reaction where water is used to break down complex molecules into simpler ones, a key process in fermentation.
Microbial Ecosystem: The community of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, etc.) that inhabit a particular environment and interact with each other.