Spam Kimchi Stew: A Rich and Spicy Korean Classic
Spam Kimchi Stew Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Discover the delightful simplicity of Spam Kimchi Stew, a beloved Korean dish that combines the savory richness of Spam with the tangy zest of fermented kimchi. This recipe offers a deeply flavorful experience, perfect for making any meal feel special. Prepare to fall in love with this hearty and satisfying stew!
Main Ingredients
- 1 can (340g) Spam
- 1/4 head of aged kimchi, well-fermented
- 2 Korean green chili peppers
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by preparing the scallions. Cut them diagonally into large pieces. This preparation helps to release a refreshing flavor into the stew as it cooks.
Step 2
Open the can of Spam and cut it into substantial, thick slices, about 1.5 cm (or 0.6 inches) thick. Larger pieces ensure a satisfying bite.
Step 3
In a wide pot or wok, place the quartered aged kimchi. You can leave it whole or cut it into manageable pieces. Using well-fermented kimchi is key for a deep, rich flavor.
Step 4
Now, let’s add the seasonings. Sprinkle 0.5 tablespoon of salted fermented shrimp over the kimchi. This ingredient adds a wonderful umami depth.
Step 5
For a pleasant spicy kick, finely chop the 2 Korean green chili peppers and add them to the pot. Feel free to adjust the quantity based on your preferred spice level.
Step 6
Add a generous 2 tablespoons of minced garlic. The pungent aroma and flavor of garlic will significantly enhance the overall taste of the stew.
Step 7
Season with 0.5 tablespoon of soy sauce or fish sauce. Both anchovy fish sauce and sand lance fish sauce work well here, adding a savory note.
Step 8
To balance the tanginess of the kimchi, add 1 tablespoon of sugar. Sugar helps to mellow the sourness and harmonize the flavors.
Step 9
Arrange the sliced Spam pieces evenly on top of the kimchi. The flavorful fat from the Spam will render into the stew, creating a richer and more delicious broth.
Step 10
Pour 1 liter (about 4 cups) of rice water over the ingredients, ensuring the kimchi is mostly submerged. Rice water lends a smoother, more comforting texture to the broth.
Step 11
Bring the stew to a rolling boil over high heat with the lid off. This initial boil helps to soften the kimchi and meld the flavors.
Step 12
Once the stew begins to boil vigorously, add all the prepared sliced scallions. The scallions will impart their sweetness and aroma into the simmering liquid.
Step 13
Reduce the heat to medium and continue to simmer the stew until the kimchi is tender and the broth has reduced slightly, about 15-20 minutes. It should bubble gently.
Step 14
When the broth has thickened to your liking and all ingredients are thoroughly cooked, turn off the heat. Serve the hot Spam Kimchi Stew generously in bowls, perhaps with an extra ladle of kimchi juice on top for an extra burst of flavor!
