Spicy and Hearty Tuna Kimchi Stew (Chamchi Kimchi Jjigae)
Craving a Warm and Comforting Korean Stew? Try This Tuna Kimchi Jjigae!
I absolutely love a good stew, and lately, I feel like I can’t eat a meal without one! It’s October 3rd, 2018, and the mornings and evenings in Pyeongchang are crisp enough to require a light jacket. This Tuna Kimchi Jjigae is the perfect dish to warm you up.
Main Ingredients- 150g well-fermented kimchi (aged kimchi recommended)
- 100g canned tuna (1 can)
- 1/4 block firm tofu (approx. 100g)
- 1 Cheongyang pepper (Korean chili pepper)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Organizing your ingredients in the order they’ll be used will make the cooking process much smoother.
Step 2
Prepare the canned tuna. Slightly open the can lid, then press down firmly with your hand to drain most of the oil. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the tuna oil; this will add flavor to the stew.
Step 3
In a pot, combine the kimchi (including its juice), perilla oil, reserved tuna oil, and minced garlic. Sauté over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Cook until most of the moisture has evaporated and the ingredients are well combined, about 5 minutes. This step is key to developing a deep flavor profile for the stew.
Step 4
Pour the water into the pot with the sautéed kimchi. Add the fish sauce (or soy sauce for soup) to season. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 minutes to thoroughly cook the kimchi.
Step 5
While the stew is simmering, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes and thinly slice the Cheongyang pepper. The pepper will add a nice kick.
Step 6
After simmering for 15 minutes, add the prepared tofu and the drained tuna to the pot. Stir in the red pepper flakes. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes over medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 7
Finally, add the sliced Cheongyang pepper and let it simmer for just a moment longer before turning off the heat. The fresh spiciness of the chili pepper will elevate the stew’s overall taste.
Step 8
Well-fermented kimchi acts as a secret ingredient, adding depth and deliciousness to any stew. Enjoy your hearty and spicy Tuna Kimchi Jjigae!
