Spicy and Hearty Tofu and Pork Stew (Grandma’s Recipe)
Spicy and Hearty Tofu and Pork Stew (Grandma’s Recipe)
Let’s make a delicious stew that will awaken your appetite: Tofu and Pork Stew!
Today, let’s make a special dinner that will take center stage! Following my grandma’s secret recipe, we’ll create a flavorful and spicy Tofu and Pork Stew where tender tofu and savory pork create a perfect harmony. This stew is so irresistible, you’ll find yourself wanting to mix it with rice and eat every last bite.
Main Ingredients- 1 cup ground pork
- 1/2 block firm tofu
- Scallions, about 1/2 stalk
Seasoning Ingredients- 1 pinch salted shrimp (saeujeot)
- 1 Tbsp red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
- 2 Tbsp perilla oil (deulgireum)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- Pinch of MSG-based seasoning (like Dasida), optional
- 1 pinch salted shrimp (saeujeot)
- 1 Tbsp red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
- 2 Tbsp perilla oil (deulgireum)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- Pinch of MSG-based seasoning (like Dasida), optional
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Before you start cooking the stew, please prepare all the necessary ingredients. Slice the tofu into bite-sized pieces and chop the scallions. Having everything ready will make the cooking process much smoother and faster.
Step 2
Cut the tofu into approximately 2cm cubes, or slice it into pieces that will mix well within the stew. Chop the scallions; separating the white and green parts can be helpful. The white parts add a refreshing sweetness to the broth, while the green parts contribute aroma at the end.
Step 3
In a wide pot or wok, combine the 1 cup of ground pork with 1 Tbsp of red pepper flakes. Mix them well so the pork is evenly coated with the seasoning. This step helps marinate the pork, infusing it with deeper flavor from the beginning.
Step 4
Add about 1/2 teaspoon (or 1 pinch) of salted shrimp (saeujeot) to the pork to enhance its savory taste. Salted shrimp not only seasons the stew but also adds a deep umami flavor. Be careful not to add too much, as it can make the stew overly salty.
Step 5
For a fragrant aroma, add 1 Tbsp of minced garlic and mix thoroughly. Garlic helps to eliminate any gamey odor from the pork and adds a pleasant spiciness to the stew.
Step 6
Pour in 2 Tbsp of perilla oil. This will add a nutty flavor and rich aroma. Stir-frying perilla oil with pork brings out its unique fragrance, significantly enhancing the stew’s overall taste.
Step 7
Now, stir-fry the seasoned ingredients over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until thoroughly cooked. Stir-frying until the pork is no longer pink and the seasonings are well combined will make the stew much more delicious. Continue stir-frying until you can smell the fragrant perilla oil.
Step 8
Pour 3 cups (approximately 600ml) of water into the pot with the stir-fried pork and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once the broth boils, skim off any impurities and let it simmer to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 9
When the broth is boiling, carefully add the prepared tofu. Gently place the tofu pieces so they don’t break apart. Tofu adds a creamy texture to the stew and absorbs the broth, making the flavor even richer.
Step 10
To finalize the seasoning and add more depth, add a pinch of MSG-based seasoning (like Dasida) if desired. You can adjust the saltiness with additional salted shrimp or regular salt according to your preference.
Step 11
Finally, add all the chopped scallions and let the stew simmer for another 5 minutes. As the scallions soften, they will release their fresh flavor and aroma into the broth, completing your delicious Tofu and Pork Stew.
Step 12
Serve the finished Tofu and Pork Stew beautifully in a bowl. This visually appealing and incredibly delicious stew is now ready to be enjoyed with a warm bowl of rice!
