Spicy Korean Kimchi Tofu Stew
Pork Belly

A quintessential summer comfort dish, this kimchi tofu stew is packed with spicy, sour, and savory flavors. Perfectly tender tofu and succulent pork belly create a deeply satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 300 g napa cabbage kimchi
• 200 g pork belly, sliced
• 1/2 onion, cut into wedges
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 400 g firm tofu, cubed
• 500 ml water or stock
• 1 egg
• to taste green onions (optional)

Instructions

1. 1Prepare the kimchi

   

   Using a pair of kitchen tongs, carefully remove the kimchi from its packaging and place it into a large glass bowl. This allows you to easily handle and prepare the kimchi before adding it to the stew pot.

   Tip: If your kimchi is very long, use tongs to hold it steady while you cut it directly in the bowl.
2. 2Cut the kimchi

   

   Using a pair of clean kitchen scissors, cut the kimchi into bite-sized pieces directly inside the glass bowl. This makes the kimchi easier to eat once it is cooked into the stew.

   Tip: Cutting the kimchi in the bowl prevents staining your cutting board and keeps the juices contained.
3. 3Add aromatics and pork

   

   Place the pork belly slices, onion wedges, and minced garlic into a preheated pot. These ingredients will form the flavorful base of your stew.

   Tip: Make sure your pot is well-preheated before adding the pork to ensure a good sear.
4. 4Sear the pork belly

   

   Stir-fry the pork belly pieces in the pot until they turn golden brown. Searing the meat adds depth and richness to the overall flavor of the stew.

   Tip: Allow the pork to render its fat, as this creates a delicious base for the kimchi to fry in.
5. 5Fry the kimchi with pork

   

   Add the prepared kimchi pieces into the pot with the seared pork. Continue to stir-fry everything together so the flavors meld and the kimchi softens slightly.

   Tip: Frying the kimchi with the rendered pork fat helps to mellow out its acidity and deepen the savory notes.
6. 6Add water for the broth

   

   Pour water into the pot with the pork and kimchi mixture to create the base of your stew. Bring the liquid to a boil to allow the flavors to infuse into the broth.

   Tip: For a deeper flavor, you can use broth or stock instead of water.
7. 7Add the tofu

   

   Gently slide the cubed tofu into the pot with the simmering pork belly and kimchi stew. Ensure the tofu is submerged in the flavorful broth to allow it to absorb the savory and spicy essence as it finishes cooking.

   Tip: Be gentle when adding the tofu to prevent it from breaking apart; a light stir is all that is needed to combine it with the stew.

Storage & Reheating

Burn It Off

Frequently Asked Questions