The star ingredient in this hearty Korean soup is fresh or marinated pollack roe (myeongnan). The soup consists of a spicy broth, typically dashi-based, which is seasoned with gochujang paste. Apart from the roe, the soup usually incorporates sliced daikon radish, scallions, bean sprouts, and occasionally tofu or other additions.

It is traditionally served with rice on the side, and it pairs well with soju—traditional Korean spirit.