Korean food

Delicious Kimchi Jjigae Recipe

Kody 2025. 7. 2. 16:43

🍲 Delicious Kimchi Jjigae Recipe( kimchi stew)

Warm up your blog and your soul with this easy-to-follow, aromatic 김치찌개 (Kimchi Jjigae) recipe—complete with photos, ingredient tips, and step-by-step cooking instructions!


What Is Kimchi Jjigae?

Kimchi Jjigae is a classic Korean stew made with aged kimchi, tender pork (or tofu), and vegetables, all simmered in a savory broth. It's beloved throughout Korea as comfort food—perfect with a bowl of rice and side dishes 

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

  • Kimchi (well-fermented): 300–400 g + ¼ cup kimchi juice
  • Pork belly or shoulder, thinly sliced: 200–250 g
  • Tofu, firm: half a package (optional)
  • Onion, medium, sliced
  • Green onions, sliced diagonally
  • Garlic, 3–4 cloves, minced 
  • Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes): 2 tsp
  • Gochujang (Korean chili paste): 1 Tbsp (optional) 
  • Sesame oil: 1 Tbsp plus extra for finishing
  • Sugar: 1 tsp
  • Broth / Water: 2–3 cups anchovy stock or water

Optional Add-ins

  • Mushrooms, zucchini, radish, canned tuna, or spam 


Cooking Steps




    1. Prep kimchi & broth
      Use aged kimchi (it's sourer and tastier for stew)  If you have kimchi juice, add ¼ cup.
      If possible, make anchovy-kelp broth by simmering dried anchovies and kelp for 20 minutes; strain to use 
    2. Sauté pork & aromatics
      Heat sesame oil in a pot, cook garlic until fragrant. Add pork and onions, sauté until the meat starts to brown 
    3. Add kimchi & seasoning
      Add kimchi, kimchi juice, gochugaru, gochujang, and sugar. Stir-fry together for 2–3 minutes to deepen flavors 
    4. Pour in broth & simmer
      Add broth or water until ingredients are just covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium and simmer 10–15 minutes
    5. Add tofu & green onions
      Gently add tofu and sliced green onions. Simmer another 5 minutes. Sprinkle sesame oil before serving 
    6. Serve hot
      Enjoy straight from the pot with rice and side dishes for a cozy meal.


Cooking Tips

  • Use strong-flavored kimchi: Ripe, aged kimchi makes the stew rich and tangy
  • Include kimchi juice: The fermented liquid boosts flavor and color .
  • Prep broth thoughtfully: Anchovy broth adds umami, but water works in a pinch 
  • Add meat early: Browning meat before simmering creates deeper taste 


Why You’ll Love It

  • Quick & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes
  • Comforting: Warm, spicy, tangy flavors soothe the soul
  • Flexible: Adaptable with meats, tofu, seafood or vegetables
  • Ultimate comfort food: Perfect for cold days or cozy dinners

 

“This kimchi jjigae recipe transforms basic pantry staples into a bubbling pot of Korean comfort—spicy, tangy, and full of flavor. With simple steps and flexible ingredients like pork, tofu, or mushrooms, it's a must-try dish to warm any family dinner. Ready to try? Don’t forget the rice!”

맛 있게 먹어(enjoy you're meal!!)