Perilla Oil Stir-fried Kimchi with Tofu
Simple Breakfast Idea: Perilla Oil Stir-fried Kimchi and Tofu, Delicious Kimchi Recipe
A nutritious one-dish meal featuring kimchi stir-fried in fragrant perilla oil alongside tender tofu. It’s a simple yet satisfying option for breakfast or as a side dish.
Main Ingredients
- 1/4 head of napa cabbage kimchi (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 block of tofu (approx. 300g)
- 1 Tbsp perilla oil
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- 30ml water
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the kimchi. Instead of using a cutting board, use scissors to cut the kimchi into manageable pieces. This not only reduces the number of dishes to wash but is also very convenient. Add 30ml of water and 0.5 to 1 Tbsp of sugar to the cut kimchi. Cover with a lid and cook over medium-low heat for about 7 to 10 minutes. The sugar helps to balance the sourness of the kimchi and enhance its savory flavor.
Step 2
It’s best to prepare the tofu by draining it in a sieve. However, if you’re short on time, lightly rinsing it with filtered water is also an option. This helps to remove any unwanted odors from the tofu, resulting in a cleaner taste.
Step 3
Tofu tends to release a lot of water, so it’s a good idea to place kitchen towels on both the top and bottom of the tofu and press gently. This prevents the tofu from becoming watery during cooking, helping it maintain its shape and cook cleanly. If you have ample time, draining the tofu on a sieve for about 30 minutes is the most effective method.
Step 4
Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces. Typically, one block of tofu can be cut in half and then into five pieces each, making about 10 pieces in total for easy consumption. (Note that tofu sizes and textures can vary by brand, so adjust according to your family’s preferences.) If using soft stewing tofu, it can be enjoyed as is.
Step 5
Once the kimchi is sufficiently cooked, remove the lid and add 1 tablespoon of perilla oil. Increase the heat to medium and stir-fry the kimchi and tofu together. It’s important to cook until the moisture evaporates and the tofu and kimchi are well infused with the perilla oil aroma.
Step 6
Transfer the stir-fried kimchi and tofu to a serving plate. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds for a beautiful finish. Your ‘Perilla Oil Stir-fried Kimchi with Tofu’ is now complete, offering both delicious flavor and good nutrition! Enjoy it with a bowl of warm rice for a satisfying meal.
