Spicy and Deep Flavored Kimchi Stew: A Homemade Delight
Mastering the Famous Saemaul Sikdang Kimchi Stew at Home!
To be honest, I’m not entirely familiar with the exact taste of ‘Saemaul Sikdang Kimchi Stew.’ However, after seeing many people mention the ‘7-minute Kimchi Stew,’ I was inspired to recreate its deep and savory flavor, even if it doesn’t quite take just 7 minutes! I’ve carefully followed a recipe to bring you this delicious version. Try making this rich and flavorful kimchi stew easily in your own kitchen!
Kimchi Stew Ingredients- 1 handful ripe kimchi (approx. 200g)
- 3 cups rice water or plain water (approx. 600ml)
- 1 handful pork for stew (e.g., neck or belly, approx. 100g)
- 1/2 Tbsp soybean paste (doenjang)
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce for soup (guk-ganjang)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1.5 Tbsp red pepper powder (gochugaru) (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 stalk green onion
- 1/2 block firm tofu
- A handful of your favorite mushrooms (e.g., shiitake, oyster mushrooms)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the broth that will add depth to your kimchi stew. While plain water works, using rice water makes the broth much smoother and nuttier. Pour 3 cups of rice water into a pot and bring it to a boil over high heat.
Step 2
Once the rice water is vigorously boiling, add 1 handful of pork for stew and dissolve 1/2 Tbsp of doenjang. Doenjang helps remove any pork odor and adds a savory umami to the soup. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until the pork is cooked.
Step 3
After the pork is somewhat cooked, add 1 handful of well-fermented kimchi, chopped into bite-sized pieces. The kimchi will break down and release its delicious flavor into the broth. Once the kimchi is added, bring it back to a rolling boil to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4
Now it’s time to add the seasonings that will give your kimchi stew its signature spiciness. Stir in 1.5 Tbsp of gochugaru, 1 Tbsp of guk-ganjang, and 1 Tbsp of minced garlic. Mix well and let it simmer thoroughly over medium-low heat until the flavors deepen into a rich kimchi stew.
Step 5
It’s time to add your favorite mushrooms and tofu! Chop the mushrooms into manageable pieces and cut the tofu into generous cubes. As the mushrooms and tofu cook, they will further enrich the flavor of the broth. Continue to simmer for about 5 more minutes.
Step 6
Finally, add a handful of sliced green onions and simmer for another moment to complete your delicious kimchi stew! The refreshing aroma of the green onions makes it even more delightful. Enjoy it piping hot with a bowl of rice!
