Deep and Refreshing Kimchi Jjigae: An Easy Recipe

Spicy and Delicious Kimchi Stew

Deep and Refreshing Kimchi Jjigae: An Easy Recipe

This Kimchi Jjigae (Korean stew) is wonderfully refreshing and deeply flavorful, made with just simple kimchi! It’s so satisfying, you’ll find yourself reaching for your spoon again and again. Perfect for a comforting meal.

Recipe Info

  • Category : Stew
  • Ingredient Category : Vegetables
  • Occasion : Everyday
  • Cooking : Boil / Simmer
  • Servings : 4 servings
  • Cooking Time : Within 30 minutes
  • Difficulty : Anyone

Main Ingredients

  • 1 portion of aged Kimchi (preferably Kimchi Jjigae-style)
  • 1/2 block of firm Tofu

Seasoning & Other Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp Sesame Oil
  • 1 Tbsp Sugar
  • 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
  • 1 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 1/2 Tbsp Fish Sauce (or Korean soy sauce for soup, adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 Tbsp Soup Soy Sauce (or regular soy sauce)
  • 1/2 Cup Scallions, chopped
  • 1 Korean Chili Pepper (optional, for extra spice), chopped
  • 4 Cups Rice Water (or plain water)
  • 1 Tbsp Dashida (optional, for added umami)

Cooking Instructions

Step 1

First, chop the kimchi into bite-sized pieces (about 2-3 cm). This ensures they cook evenly and are easy to eat.

Step 1

Step 2

Heat a pot over low heat and add sesame oil. Stir in the sugar, minced garlic, gochujang, fish sauce (or soup soy sauce), and soup soy sauce. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring gently to prevent burning, until fragrant. This step greatly enhances the depth of flavor in your Kimchi Jjigae.

Step 2

Step 3

Add the chopped kimchi to the pot. Increase the heat to medium and stir-fry the kimchi for about 3-5 minutes until it softens and becomes slightly translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3

Step 4

Pour in 4 cups of rice water. Using rice water adds a subtle richness and smoother texture to the broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer for about 5 minutes. If you desire an extra boost of umami, you can add 1 Tbsp of Dashida at this stage.

Step 4

Step 5

Once the kimchi has simmered well, add the tofu and the chopped scallions. If you like a spicier stew, add the chopped Korean chili pepper as well. Continue to simmer over medium heat for another 3 minutes until everything is heated through. Stir gently to avoid breaking the tofu. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade Kimchi Jjigae! ♡

Step 5



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