Simple Tofu Kimchi: Perfect for Any Occasion!
Simple Tofu Kimchi: Perfect for Any Occasion!
Quick and Easy Tofu Kimchi Recipe
Need a quick snack or a side dish in a pinch? With just one block of tofu and some aged kimchi, you can whip up this delightful Tofu Kimchi in no time! The golden-brown, pan-fried tofu paired with the sweet and tangy stir-fried kimchi creates a wonderful harmony, making it a fantastic dish for both meals and drinks. This recipe is so simple, even beginners can follow along easily. Let’s get started!
Main Ingredients- 1 block (approx. 300g) firm tofu
- 1/4 head (approx. 200g) aged or well-fermented napa cabbage kimchi
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the block of tofu. Gently pat the tofu dry with paper towels. Slice it into pieces about 1.5 to 2 cm thick, suitable for eating. Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of vegetable or perilla oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Place the tofu slices in the pan and pan-fry them until golden brown and slightly crispy on both sides. Frying the tofu helps it firm up, preventing it from breaking apart easily and adding a delicious nutty flavor.
Step 2
Next, prepare the kimchi. Lightly squeeze out excess brine and chop it into bite-sized pieces, about 2 to 3 cm wide. If your kimchi is very spicy or sour, you might want to add a little more sugar. Adding some fresh ingredients like young greens or chopped scallions can also enhance the flavor. (The kimchi in the photo isn’t aged kimchi, but using well-fermented kimchi will result in a richer taste.)
Step 3
Using the same pan you fried the tofu in (or a clean one), add a little oil and sauté 1 tablespoon of minced garlic over low heat until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Once the garlic is aromatic, add the chopped kimchi and stir-fry it together. Add 2 tablespoons of sugar at this stage to balance the sourness of the kimchi and harmonize the overall flavors.
Step 4
Once the kimchi has softened slightly, add 10 tablespoons of kimchi juice for moisture and flavor. Then, stir in 1/2 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1/2 tablespoon of fish sauce to boost the umami. Finally, add 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty aroma. Stir-fry everything together until well combined and slightly glossy.
Step 5
When the kimchi is nicely sautéed and has a beautiful sheen, your delicious Tofu Kimchi is ready! Arrange the hot, pan-fried tofu and the flavorful stir-fried kimchi on a serving plate for a visually appealing dish.
Step 6
Even my husband, who’s on a ‘no-drinking’ rule, couldn’t resist this amazing Tofu Kimchi! The combination of warm, soft tofu and the sweet and tangy kimchi is incredibly satisfying and makes you crave a drink. The contrast between the tender tofu and the slightly crunchy kimchi is simply delightful.
Step 7
This Tofu Kimchi is incredibly versatile. It’s delicious served over a bowl of hot rice, or paired with makgeolli (Korean rice wine) or beer for a perfect accompaniment. Feel free to add sliced cucumbers, perilla leaves, or even boiled pork to make it even more special!
