Savory Stir-Fried Aged Kimchi: A Springtime Delight
Spicy and Tangy Aged Kimchi Stir-Fry: The Perfect Spring Appetizer
Do you have aged kimchi piling up? Is it a bit too salty? This recipe is the perfect solution! Wash it thoroughly and stir-fry it for a delicious side dish. It’s not just a great way to use up aged kimchi, but also incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
Main Ingredients
- 1/4 head of well-fermented aged kimchi
- 1/3 stalk of fresh green onion
Seasoning Ingredients
- 3 Tbsp perilla oil
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds (sesame salt)
- 1/2 Tbsp red pepper flakes
- A pinch of black pepper (optional)
- 3 Tbsp perilla oil
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds (sesame salt)
- 1/2 Tbsp red pepper flakes
- A pinch of black pepper (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare one quarter of a well-fermented aged kimchi head, which will be the star of today’s dish.
Step 2
Gently remove the inner filling from the kimchi. Rinse the kimchi thoroughly under cold running water until most of the red pepper powder is gone. Be careful not to soak the kimchi in water for too long, as this can wash away its delicious savory flavor and saltiness, resulting in a less flavorful dish.
Step 3
Lightly squeeze out excess water from the washed kimchi with your hands. Then, tear the kimchi into bite-sized pieces. If some pieces are too long, cut them in half for easier eating after stir-frying.
Step 4
In a wide pan, combine the prepared kimchi, chopped green onion, minced garlic, perilla oil, and toasted sesame seeds. Use your hands to gently massage and mix the ingredients, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the kimchi. Once well mixed, cover the pan with a lid and cook over low heat for about 5 minutes. Adding a tiny pinch of black pepper at this stage can enhance the kimchi’s aroma and add a subtle depth of flavor. Cook until the kimchi’s natural juices have slightly reduced and thickened. This reduction is key to concentrating the flavor.
Step 5
When the kimchi is nearly cooked, add a very small amount of red pepper flakes, if desired, for a bit more color and mild spiciness. Be mindful of the quantity to avoid making the dish too salty.
Step 6
Stir everything together to combine well, and your delicious stir-fried aged kimchi is ready! It’s absolutely wonderful served over a bowl of hot steamed rice.
