Spicy and Refreshing Pork Kimchi Stew
The Ultimate Pork Kimchi Stew Recipe You’ll Use Forever
Today, we’re making kimchi stew, a beloved Korean comfort food! When made with plenty of pork, it offers a rich broth and satisfying texture. While many kimchi stew recipes exist, this is a fundamental recipe you can master and rely on for any occasion. I’ll share a secret to making a perfectly refreshing and spicy stew without the usual greasy step of stir-frying pork. It’s the perfect choice for a simple yet hearty meal when you’re unsure what to cook!
Main Ingredients- 1/4 head of aged, sour kimchi
- 1 bowl of pork (neck or belly)
- 1 Cheongyang chili pepper
- 1/2 stalk of green onion
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by layering the pork at the bottom of the pot. Then, add the whole head of kimchi or pieces of kimchi on top of the pork. Roughly chop half of the green onion and place it over the pork and kimchi. Thinly slice the Cheongyang chili pepper. (Tip: Many kimchi stew recipes begin by stir-frying the pork, but today, we’ll skip this step to ensure a cleaner, more refreshing broth and eliminate any gamey odors.)
Step 2
Sprinkle 1 Tbsp of minced garlic, 1 Tbsp of salted shrimp, and 2 Tbsp of soy sauce for soup evenly over the ingredients. Salted shrimp is a key ingredient that adds umami and a refreshing quality to kimchi stew. It’s essential for achieving a clean and deep broth flavor!
Step 3
Pour enough water to cover the ingredients. (Don’t add too much water initially, as the kimchi will release its own liquid.) Bring the stew to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, gently stir occasionally with chopsticks to prevent the pork from sticking together. Let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the kimchi is tender and the flavors have melded. If the stew reduces too much during cooking, add a little water as needed. (Tip: By not stir-frying the pork, the natural flavors of the ingredients will infuse more deeply into the broth the longer it simmers, resulting in a richer and more refreshing taste.)
Step 4
Once the kimchi is well-cooked and the broth tastes delicious, adjust the seasoning. Depending on the saltiness and sourness of your kimchi, you can add 1 Tbsp of red pepper powder for a spicier kick and a more appetizing color. Taste and adjust the final seasoning with salt or more soy sauce if needed. (Tip: Kimchi varies in flavor by household, so always taste and adjust to your preference. Red pepper powder not only adds color but also a pleasant spiciness, making the stew even more delightful.)
