Spicy & Savory Korean Gochujang Stew with Pork
Spicy & Savory Korean Gochujang Stew with Pork
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Gochujang Stew with Pork and Tofu
Discover the comforting warmth of a classic Korean Gochujang Stew, featuring tender pork and silky tofu in a rich, spicy broth. This recipe elevates simple ingredients into a deeply flavorful dish, perfect for a hearty meal. The subtle nuttiness of perilla oil and the foundational umami of gochujang create a complex taste profile, while rice water adds a delightful depth. Ideal for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a truly satisfying bowl.
Main Ingredients- 300g Pork (stew-cut, with some fat for flavor)
- 1 block Tofu (firm or medium-firm, suitable for stews)
- 3 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste – use a good quality one for best flavor)
- 2 Tbsp Perilla Oil (or sesame oil)
- 3 cups Rice Water (or water/stock)
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1/2 stalk Green Onion (sliced diagonally, generous amount)
- 1/2 Onion (thinly sliced)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Let’s get started on a delicious and hearty Gochujang Stew! This Korean classic is packed with flavor and is sure to become a favorite.
Step 2
First, prepare the pork. Cut the 300g of stew-cut pork into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch thick. This ensures a satisfying chew in every spoonful.
Step 3
Heat a pot over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of perilla oil. Add the pork and stir-fry until it’s about halfway cooked. Then, add 3 tablespoons of gochujang and continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the paste coats the pork evenly and cooks slightly to deepen its flavor. Be careful not to burn the gochujang.
Step 4
Pour in 3 cups of rice water (this adds a lovely, subtle richness to the broth). Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Bring the stew to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low once it starts bubbling vigorously.
Step 5
While the stew simmers, prepare your vegetables. Slice the green onion diagonally and thinly slice the half onion. Add the sliced green onion and onion to the simmering stew. Let them cook until tender, infusing the broth with their sweetness.
Step 6
For an extra kick of spice, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) to the stew, adjusting to your preference. Taste the broth and season with salt or soy sauce if needed. The tofu should be added at this stage if not already included; gently place the cubed tofu into the stew.
Step 7
Your delicious Gochujang Stew with Pork is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve hot with a side of steamed rice for a truly comforting and satisfying meal.
