Kimchi Jjigae
Indulge in the bold, complex flavors of a traditional Korean Kimchi Jjigae. This hearty stew combines the sharp tang of aged kimchi with savory pork belly and tender tofu in a spicy, umami-rich broth.
Prep
10m
Cook
30m
Serves
4
1 Ingredients
| Qty | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 cups 400 g | Aged Kimchi |
| 0.5 lbs 225 g | Pork Belly |
| 0.5 block 200 g | Firm Tofu |
| 1 medium 150 g | Yellow Onion |
| 2 stalks 30 g | Green Onions |
| 1 tbsp 6 g | Gochugaru (Korean Red Chili Flakes) |
| 1 tbsp 15 ml | Soy Sauce |
| 1 tsp 4 g | Sugar |
| 1 tsp 5 g | Minced Garlic |
| 2 cups 480 ml | Anchovy Broth or Water |
2 Method
Step 1. Prepare the ingredients by cutting the aged kimchi and pork belly into bite-sized pieces. Slice the onion and tofu into uniform slices.
Step 2. In a medium pot over medium-high heat, cook the pork belly and garlic until the meat is lightly browned and the fat begins to render.
Step 3. Add the chopped kimchi and sliced onion to the pot. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the kimchi becomes translucent and soft.
Step 4. Pour in the anchovy broth (or water) along with about 1/4 cup of the kimchi brine from the jar. Stir in the gochugaru, soy sauce, and sugar.
Step 5. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
Step 6. Carefully place the tofu slices and green onions on top of the stew. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the tofu is heated through.
Step 7. Season with salt to taste if necessary. Serve immediately with a side of steamed white rice.
💡 Chef's Tips
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The secret to a great Kimchi Jjigae is using well-aged, sour kimchi. Fresh kimchi will not provide the same depth of flavor.
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If your kimchi is extremely sour, the small amount of sugar in the recipe helps balance the acidity.
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Using anchovy broth instead of plain water adds a much richer umami profile to the base.
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Searing the pork belly first ensures the fat renders into the broth, creating a silky mouthfeel.
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