Rich & Flavorful Pork Kimchi Stew
Rich & Flavorful Pork Kimchi Stew
Easier Than You Think! How to Make Delicious Pork Kimchi Stew at Home
Kimchi stew might seem daunting, but it’s surprisingly simple to make! Just combine the ingredients and let it simmer until tender and flavorful. This easy and quick recipe yields a delicious side dish perfect for any meal. Enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade kimchi stew that the whole family will love.
Main Ingredients- 400g pork belly or shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 head of well-fermented napa cabbage kimchi (approx. 1kg)
- 1 ladle of kimchi brine (approx. 200ml)
- Water (enough to cover the kimchi)
- 1/2 block of tofu, sliced into 1.5cm thick pieces (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
The key to a great kimchi stew is well-fermented kimchi! Place the whole head of aged napa cabbage kimchi directly into your pot. This will allow its deep flavor to infuse beautifully into the stew.
Step 2
If your pork is frozen, make sure to thaw it beforehand. If you notice any blood on the surface, gently pat it dry with paper towels for a cleaner taste. Freshly refrigerated pork can be used as is.
Step 3
To effectively eliminate any porky smell, pour 3 tablespoons of mirin (or cooking sake) over the pork and mix well. Letting it marinate for a few minutes will help the flavor penetrate the meat, making it more tender and delicious.
Step 4
If your pork is already sliced, tuck the pieces in between the kimchi layers in the pot. If you have larger chunks of meat, you can place the kimchi on one side and the pork on the other.
Step 5
Add 1 ladle of kimchi brine to the pot. This concentrated liquid will add a rich, savory depth to your stew.
Step 6
Now, let’s add water. Pour in enough water to about halfway cover the kimchi. Be mindful not to add too much, as it can dilute the flavor. Adjust the water level based on the amount of kimchi you’re using. All your ingredients are prepped!
Step 7
Cover the pot and let it simmer over medium heat for about 20 minutes. As it cooks, the liquid might reduce, so if it gets too low, add a little more water. Continue simmering until the kimchi becomes very soft and tender, almost falling apart.
Step 8
To enhance the stew’s vibrant color and add a touch of spiciness, stir in 1 tablespoon of gochugaru. Make sure to break up any clumps.
Step 9
If your pork pieces are large or you want to ensure they are cooked through and tender, this is a good time to check. You can pierce the pork with a chopstick or knife. If needed, cut the pork into smaller pieces now so that the flavors can penetrate better.
Step 10
Cover the pot again and continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes. This allows the pork and kimchi to meld together beautifully in the flavorful broth.
Step 11
Finally, arrange the sliced tofu (if using) on top of the stew. The tofu will soften and absorb the delicious broth, making it even more flavorful. Don’t worry if you don’t have tofu; the stew is delicious without it! Your simple and delicious pork kimchi stew is ready. Serve hot with a bowl of rice and enjoy!
