Hearty Potato and Tofu Stew: A Comforting Korean Classic
Hearty Potato and Tofu Stew: A Comforting Korean Classic
Potato and Tofu Stew (A Wholesome Root Vegetable Dish)
A delightful and filling dish made with tender potatoes and soft tofu simmered together. It’s wonderfully comforting and satisfying.
Main Ingredients- Potatoes 150g (net weight after peeling)
- Tofu 150g
- Small chili peppers 6 pcs (feel free to add more if you like it spicier)
For Pan-Frying Tofu- Salt 1 pinch
- Cooking oil 1 Tbsp
For Sautéing and Simmering Potatoes- Cooking oil 1 Tbsp
- Water 100ml
Flavorful Sauce- Soy sauce 2 Tbsp
- Fish sauce 0.5 Tbsp (for added umami)
- Minced garlic 1 Tbsp
- Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) 2 Tbsp (adjust to your spice preference)
- Corn syrup or oligodang 2 Tbsp (for shine and sweetness)
- Cooking wine (mirin or sake) 1 Tbsp (to remove any raw odors)
Garnish- Toasted sesame seeds to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Salt 1 pinch
- Cooking oil 1 Tbsp
For Sautéing and Simmering Potatoes- Cooking oil 1 Tbsp
- Water 100ml
Flavorful Sauce- Soy sauce 2 Tbsp
- Fish sauce 0.5 Tbsp (for added umami)
- Minced garlic 1 Tbsp
- Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) 2 Tbsp (adjust to your spice preference)
- Corn syrup or oligodang 2 Tbsp (for shine and sweetness)
- Cooking wine (mirin or sake) 1 Tbsp (to remove any raw odors)
Garnish- Toasted sesame seeds to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Soy sauce 2 Tbsp
- Fish sauce 0.5 Tbsp (for added umami)
- Minced garlic 1 Tbsp
- Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) 2 Tbsp (adjust to your spice preference)
- Corn syrup or oligodang 2 Tbsp (for shine and sweetness)
- Cooking wine (mirin or sake) 1 Tbsp (to remove any raw odors)
Garnish- Toasted sesame seeds to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
The potato weight of 150g refers to the amount after peeling. If you enjoy a spicier dish, feel free to use more than 6 small chili peppers. Regular green chilies can also be used.
Step 2
Cut the tofu into approximately 12 bite-sized pieces. Dice the potatoes into cubes slightly smaller than the tofu pieces. Be careful not to cut them too small, as they might break apart during cooking.
Step 3
Heat a frying pan over low heat without preheating. Lightly sprinkle a pinch of salt on the tofu pieces. Add 1 Tbsp of cooking oil and pan-fry the tofu, flipping occasionally, until golden brown on all sides. This step creates a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft.
Step 4
In the same pan where the tofu was fried, add another 1 Tbsp of cooking oil. Add the diced potatoes and sauté them over low heat for 5 minutes, being careful not to break them. This sautéing step helps the potatoes absorb the sauce better and prevents them from falling apart.
Step 5
Pour 100ml of water into the pan with the sautéed potatoes and cover with a lid. Let them simmer for about 3 minutes until the potatoes are tender. You can adjust the cooking time based on how tender you want your potatoes.
Step 6
Test the potatoes with a chopstick or fork; they should be easily pierced. Add the sliced chili peppers and gently toss everything in the pan to combine. The chilies will add flavor as they cook with the sauce.
Step 7
Now, add all the sauce ingredients: soy sauce, fish sauce, minced garlic, gochugaru, corn syrup, and cooking wine. Mix them well.
Step 8
Stir the sauce to ensure it’s evenly distributed, then let it simmer until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Initially, focus on letting the potatoes absorb the flavors. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 9
Once the potatoes are well-seasoned and the sauce has thickened slightly, gently add the pan-fried tofu pieces and mix them in. Tofu absorbs flavors quickly, so avoid overcooking it. Mix gently to prevent the tofu from crumbling.
Step 10
Finally, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and black pepper according to your preference. The nutty aroma of sesame seeds and the subtle heat of black pepper will enhance the dish.
Step 11
The combination of fluffy potatoes and hearty tofu creates a wonderfully delicious side dish. This Potato and Tofu Stew is so inviting, you’ll want to finish every last bite with your rice! Give it a try!
