Savory Stir-Fried Kimchi with Perilla Oil
#StirFriedKimchi #KimchiRecipe #EasyKimchi #PerillaOil #VeganRecipe #TofuKimchi
Got a lot of well-fermented kimchi leftover from Kimjang (Korean kimchi-making season)? Instead of eating it plainly, which can get monotonous, here’s a fantastic way to give it a delicious makeover: Stir-fried Kimchi! While very sour kimchi can sometimes be overwhelming, this recipe masterfully balances the tanginess with the nutty aroma of perilla oil, a touch of plum extract, and sweetness from sugar. It transforms leftover kimchi into a dish that tastes almost as fresh as newly made kimchi. This stir-fried kimchi is especially delightful when paired with soft tofu for a classic ‘Dubu Kimchi’ (Tofu with Stir-fried Kimchi), or you can even serve it with boiled somen noodles for a delightful cold noodle dish. Try this simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe with your leftover sour kimchi!
Ingredients- 1/2 head of well-fermented napa cabbage kimchi (approx. 500g)
- 3 Tbsp perilla oil
- 3 Tbsp plum extract (or sweetened plum juice)
- 1 Tbsp sugar (adjust to your kimchi’s sourness)
- 2 Tbsp chopped scallions
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, rinse the half head of well-fermented kimchi, drain it thoroughly, and then chop it into bite-sized pieces, about 1cm wide. Transfer the chopped kimchi to a frying pan and add 3 tablespoons of perilla oil for its rich, nutty flavor.
Step 2
Now, add 3 tablespoons of plum extract to mellow out the sourness and enhance the umami, along with 1 tablespoon of sugar. If your kimchi is particularly sour, feel free to increase the sugar slightly. Finally, add 2 tablespoons of chopped scallions and mix everything well to coat the kimchi.
Step 3
Set the heat to medium and begin stir-frying the coated kimchi. The kimchi will release some liquid initially. Continue stirring and cooking until this liquid reduces and the kimchi becomes tender. Be careful not to cook on high heat, as this can burn the kimchi. Stir gently over medium heat, allowing the liquid to evaporate as much as possible. Once the kimchi is cooked to your liking and looks appetizing, turn off the heat. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds over the top for a final touch of nutty aroma. Your delicious stir-fried kimchi is now ready!
Step 4
Here’s how to serve it as ‘Dubu Kimchi’ (Tofu with Stir-fried Kimchi). Gently warm your preferred tofu either in the microwave or by pan-frying it. Arrange the warm tofu pieces attractively around the edge of a serving plate. Spoon a generous amount of the freshly made stir-fried kimchi into the center of the plate. For an extra touch, drizzle a little sesame oil and sprinkle more toasted sesame seeds. The combination of spicy, sweet, and savory stir-fried kimchi with soft tofu creates a truly delightful dish. It’s perfect as a side dish for rice or even as a delicious appetizer!
