Quick & Easy Microwave Stir-Fried Kimchi
How to Make Stir-Fried Kimchi Using a Microwave
A simple method for making delicious stir-fried kimchi using your microwave. Perfect for when you need a quick and tasty side dish!
Ingredients
- 1 bowl of ripe kimchi (approx. 150g)
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 0.5 Tbsp sugar
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, finely chop the ripe kimchi into bite-sized pieces using scissors or a knife. You can optionally rinse it briefly under running water to mellow its tanginess, but it’s delicious as is. Squeezing out excess liquid is recommended.
Step 2
Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce to the chopped kimchi. This helps to season the kimchi and deepen its flavor.
Step 3
Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. This will lend a wonderful nutty aroma and richness. We’ll add the remaining tablespoon later.
Step 4
If your kimchi is quite sour, add 0.5 tablespoon of sugar. This balances the acidity and rounds out the flavors. Adjust the sugar amount based on your kimchi’s tartness.
Step 5
Finally, sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds for added texture and nutty flavor. Gently mix everything together with your hands or a spoon, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the kimchi.
Step 6
Now, let’s use the microwave! Transfer the seasoned kimchi to a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a lid, or if you don’t have one, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and poke a few holes in it with a fork to allow steam to escape. Microwave on high for 1 minute and 30 seconds for the first cooking cycle.
Step 7
Here’s how the kimchi looks after the initial 1 minute and 30-second microwave cooking. You’ll notice it has softened nicely.
Step 8
While the kimchi was cooking, reserve the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Take the kimchi out, give it a good stir, and add the last tablespoon of sesame oil. This final addition makes it extra fragrant and moist. Mixing again ensures the oil is well incorporated.
Step 9
Return the dish to the microwave and cook for another 1 minute. This second short cooking phase ensures the kimchi is perfectly tender and flavorful.
Step 10
Transfer your warm, delicious stir-fried kimchi to a serving plate. It’s a fantastic side dish for rice, perfect for bibimbap, or a wonderful filling for kimbap. Enjoy this super simple and satisfying kimchi recipe, especially on busy days!
