Spam and Tofu Kimchi Stir-Fry: The Ultimate Rice Companion!
Spam and Tofu Kimchi Stir-Fry: The Ultimate Rice Companion!
How to Make Delicious Spam and Tofu Kimchi Stir-Fry
Craving a flavorful kimchi stir-fry? This recipe combines the classic taste of spicy, stir-fried kimchi with savory Spam and soft tofu, creating a delightful dish that appeals to both kids and adults. It’s a quick and easy way to prepare a satisfying side dish that will elevate your meals. Perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion that calls for a comforting and delicious meal.
Main Ingredients- 1 can (approx. 200g) Spam
- 1 block (approx. 300g) firm tofu
- Well-fermented kimchi
Kimchi Stir-Fry Seasoning- 1/2 head (approx. 300g) napa cabbage kimchi, chopped
- 3 Tbsp perilla oil (deulgireum)
- 3-4 Tbsp sugar (adjust to kimchi’s sourness)
- 1/3 cup water (approx. 60ml)
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds
- 1/2 head (approx. 300g) napa cabbage kimchi, chopped
- 3 Tbsp perilla oil (deulgireum)
- 3-4 Tbsp sugar (adjust to kimchi’s sourness)
- 1/3 cup water (approx. 60ml)
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the tofu and Spam by slicing them into similar sizes. You’ll need one block of tofu (about 300g) and one can of Spam (standard size). If your family loves Spam, feel free to increase the amount to 1.5 or even 2 cans. My husband and kids absolutely loved it!
Step 2
To prepare the Spam, open the can and rinse it under hot running water or briefly blanch it in boiling water to remove excess grease. This step helps to mellow out the saltiness and richness of the Spam, making it more palatable. Slice both the Spam and the tofu into pieces about 1.5cm thick. Try to keep the sizes as uniform as possible for a visually appealing dish.
Step 3
Heat a pan over medium heat and add the sliced Spam. Cook it until it’s lightly golden brown on both sides. Be careful not to overcook the Spam, as it can become tough and hard. Gently pan-fry it, flipping occasionally, to maintain a tender texture.
Step 4
The key to perfectly cooked Spam is to avoid overcooking. Cook it just until it’s warmed through and has a light golden sear on both sides, ensuring it remains moist and tender. This method brings out the best flavor when combined with the kimchi.
Step 5
Now, let’s make the delicious kimchi stir-fry! Finely chop the kimchi into bite-sized pieces (about 2-3 cm). In a bowl, mix the chopped kimchi with 3-4 tablespoons of sugar. Gently massage the sugar into the kimchi. This will balance the sourness and enhance its savory flavors. If your kimchi is particularly sour, you might want to add a little more sugar.
Step 6
Add a generous amount of perilla oil (3 Tbsp) to the pan and heat over medium heat. Add the seasoned kimchi and begin to stir-fry. Initially, you’ll notice a sweet aroma from the sugar, but as it cooks, the savory and tangy notes of the kimchi will become more prominent.
Step 7
The secret to a perfectly balanced kimchi stir-fry is sugar! Adding a good amount of sugar when you first mix it with the kimchi is crucial. This helps to create a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and salty flavors as it cooks down.
Step 8
Once the kimchi is tender-crisp, pour in about 1/3 cup of water (around 60ml). Cover the pan and let it simmer over medium-low heat. This steaming process will make the kimchi even softer and allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Taste the kimchi during this stage and adjust the sugar or seasoning if needed to suit your preference.
Step 9
Finally, just before turning off the heat, stir in 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and a pinch of toasted sesame seeds. The fragrant sesame oil adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Your delicious Spam and Tofu Kimchi Stir-Fry is ready! Making a generous batch will ensure you have a popular and satisfying side dish for your family.
Step 10
While pan-frying the tofu in perilla oil is also delicious, it can sometimes result in a slightly firm texture. For a softer texture, try warming the tofu in the microwave for 2-3 minutes before adding it. This method ensures the tofu remains wonderfully tender and moist, complementing the other ingredients perfectly.
