Spicy and Silky Kimchi Soft Tofu Stew
Quick and Easy Kimchi Soft Tofu Stew Perfect for Busy Mornings
Grinding lean pork from the butcher for cutlets and keeping it frozen is incredibly convenient for various dishes like fried rice, stews, and side dishes. Since it’s frozen ground pork, there’s no need to thaw, making it perfect for quick cooking on busy mornings. I quickly made a spicy and refreshing Kimchi Soft Tofu Stew with finely chopped kimchi and tender soft tofu. It’s so addictively delicious, you’ll finish a whole bowl of rice!
Basic Ingredients- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 Tbsp cooking oil
- 1/2 onion (small, finely chopped)
- 1 green onion (white and green parts separated)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 cup well-fermented kimchi (finely chopped)
- 1 + 1/2 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce (or fish sauce)
- 100g ground pork (lean cut recommended)
- 2 cups water (approx. 400ml)
- 2 Cheongyang chili peppers (optional, for extra spiciness)
- 1 package soft tofu (approx. 350g)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, heat a pot over medium heat and add 1 Tbsp of sesame oil and 1/2 Tbsp of cooking oil. Add the finely chopped 1/2 onion and the white parts of the green onion. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add 1 Tbsp of minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
Step 2
Now, add the 1 cup of finely chopped, well-fermented kimchi and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the kimchi becomes tender. You’ll notice a pleasant sour aroma as it cooks.
Step 3
Once the kimchi is sufficiently sautéed, add 1 + 1/2 Tbsp of gochugaru and 1 Tbsp of soy sauce. Stir-fry for another minute until the seasonings are evenly mixed with the kimchi. Sautéing the spices first will deepen the flavor of the broth.
Step 4
Add the 100g of ground pork and break it up with chopsticks or a spoon. Cook until the pork is completely cooked through, stirring well to prevent clumping. Ensuring the pork is evenly broken up is key.
Step 5
When the pork is cooked, carefully add the 1 package (approx. 350g) of soft tofu. It’s best to add it in large chunks rather than breaking it too finely for a pleasant texture. Pour in 2 cups (approx. 400ml) of water and gently stir to combine all ingredients. Be careful not to stir too vigorously, as you don’t want to mash the tofu completely.
Step 6
Now, turn the heat up to high and bring the stew to a rolling boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to medium or low and simmer for another 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Finally, add the chopped green parts of the green onion and 2 sliced Cheongyang chili peppers. Simmer briefly, and your spicy and refreshing Kimchi Soft Tofu Stew is ready! Enjoy it piping hot.
