Pork and Aged Kimchi Stew: A Pressure Cooker Recipe for Rich Flavor and Tenderness
How to Make Pork Shoulder Aged Kimchi Stew Using a Pressure Cooker
Utilize your aged kimchi from the kimchi refrigerator to create a deeply flavorful and rich pork and aged kimchi stew. The harmonious blend of generous seasoning, tender pork, and deeply fermented kimchi will elevate your meal beyond just a rice accompaniment. Using a pressure cooker not only shortens cooking time but also enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients for a more delicious result.
Main Ingredients- 1 whole head of well-fermented aged kimchi
- 662g pork shoulder
- 1 onion
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare your pressure cooker for making delicious pork and aged kimchi stew. Pressure cookers are excellent for stews as they make ingredients incredibly tender and moist. First, lightly grease the bottom of the pressure cooker with oil. Then, place the older, fermented part of the kimchi at the bottom. This helps prevent sticking and adds extra flavor.
Step 2
Arrange the prepared pork shoulder slices evenly over the kimchi. Pork shoulder is ideal for stews as its balance of meat and fat results in a tender and rich flavor when cooked.
Step 3
Now, let’s make the key seasoning mixture! In a bowl, combine 3 Tbsp chili powder, 2 Tbsp soy sauce for soup, 3 Tbsp cooking wine, 1 Tbsp fish sauce, 1 Tbsp minced garlic, and 2 Tbsp sugar. Mix them well. This blend will balance the saltiness and sourness of the aged kimchi while adding a rich umami flavor.
Step 4
Slice 1 onion and spread it evenly over the pork. The natural sweetness of the onion will meld into the stew as it cooks, adding depth. Next, evenly distribute the prepared seasoning mixture over the onion and pork. Finally, pour in 1 cup (about 200ml) of water to ensure all ingredients cook moistly.
Step 5
Securely close the pressure cooker lid and begin cooking. Start with high heat until the pressure cooker starts to whistle or release steam (‘chic-chic-chic’ sound). Once pressurized, reduce the heat to medium and cook for 20 minutes. Then, lower the heat to low and let it simmer for another 10 minutes. This process ensures the pork becomes tender and the kimchi absorbs the flavors deeply.
Step 6
After turning off the heat, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 20 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld further, enhancing the overall taste of the stew. (Feel free to do other small tasks during this time; 20 minutes passes quickly!)
Step 7
Your delicious pork and aged kimchi stew is ready! Slice the whole cooked pork into bite-sized pieces. (Apologies, I forgot to take pictures of the slicing process and plating the kimchi! I must have been preoccupied.) The tender pork shoulder, resembling drumsticks, and the soft, flavorful aged kimchi create a visually appetizing dish that will surely impress. Serve it generously for a meal everyone will rave about!
