Kimchi Stew with Pork Belly
Introduction
Welcome to our Korean culinary adventure with Kimchi Stew, also known as Kimchi Jjigae, topped with rich Pork Belly. This hearty stew is a staple in Korean households, offering a perfect balance of spicy, sour, and savory flavors that warm the soul. The fusion of fermented kimchi with the indulgently tender pork belly creates a robust flavor profile that is nothing short of tantalizing. Ideal for a chilly day or when you’re in need of comfort food with a kick, this recipe will guide you into making an authentic Korean dish right in your home kitchen!
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Wooden Spoon or Ladle
- Serving Bowls
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 1 hour
Recipe: Kimchi Stew with Pork Belly
Ingredients
- 500g (1.1 lbs) pork belly, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 500g (2 cups) well-fermented kimchi, chopped
- 1 liter (4 cups) water
- 150g (1 1/2 cups) tofu, cut into cubes
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 stalks green onions, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 15ml (1 tbsp) soy sauce
- 30ml (2 tbsp) gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
- 5ml (1 tsp) sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 20g (2 tbsp) vegetable oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering and preparing your ingredients. Slice the pork belly into bite-sized pieces, chop the kimchi and tofu, slice the onion, and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Sauté the Pork Belly
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the pork belly slices and sauté until they start to brown and the fat begins to render, approximately 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Kimchi
Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the pot, stirring for around 2 minutes until fragrant. Then, incorporate the chopped kimchi into the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 4: Simmer the Stew
Pour the water into the pot, followed by gochugaru and soy sauce. Stir the mixture and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 30-40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Add Tofu and Green Onions
Stir in the tofu cubes and chopped green onions. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the tofu is heated through. Add sesame oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the stew into serving bowls and enjoy it piping hot, accompanied by a bowl of steamed rice if desired.
Conclusion
You’ve just crafted a delicious Kimchi Stew with Pork Belly, a comforting dish that enlivens the taste buds and warms the heart. The combination of tender pork belly and spicy kimchi creates an unforgettable flavor experience that encapsulates the essence of Korean home cooking. This dish is perfect for sharing with friends and family, or as a solo indulgence on a cool evening. Savor this stew with every spoonful, and enjoy the comforting and vibrant tastes of Korea.
