Kimchi Jjigae – Korea’s Comfort Stew



How to Make Kimchi Jjigae – Korea’s Comfort Stew

Craving something warm and deeply flavorful? Learn how to make traditional Kimchi Jjigae (김치찌개), a hearty Korean stew packed with umami and spice.

🥬 What is Kimchi Jjigae?

Kimchi Jjigae is one of the most beloved comfort foods in Korea. It’s a spicy, tangy stew made with aged kimchi, pork or tofu, and simple pantry ingredients. Warm and satisfying, it’s a go-to dish in Korean homes—especially in cold weather.

🧄 Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2 cups aged kimchi (fermented 2+ weeks)
  • 200g (7 oz) pork belly or shoulder, sliced
  • 1/2 block tofu, cubed
  • 1/2 onion, sliced
  • 1 stalk green onion, chopped
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
  • 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 cups water or anchovy-kelp broth

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions (Beginner-Friendly)

  1. Make the broth
    In a small pot, boil 2 cups of water with a piece of dried kelp and a few dried anchovies (optional) for 10 minutes. Remove the solids.
  2. Sauté the pork
    In a large pot, cook the sliced pork over medium heat until no longer pink. Add sliced onion and garlic. Stir until aromatic.
  3. Add kimchi and seasonings
    Stir in aged kimchi, gochujang, gochugaru, and soy sauce. Mix well and cook for 5 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  4. Add broth and simmer
    Pour in your broth or water. Let the stew simmer gently for 20–25 minutes with the lid slightly open.
  5. Add tofu and finish
    Gently add tofu cubes and green onion. Simmer another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust salt or spice if needed.
  6. Serve hot
    Serve in bowls with warm white rice. Enjoy with Korean side dishes (banchan) if available!

🔍 Tips for the Best Taste

  • Use aged kimchi: The sourness adds depth and authenticity.
  • Too sour? Add 1/2 tsp sugar to balance the flavor.
  • Vegetarian option: Skip pork and use mushrooms instead.

🍲 Variations

  • Tuna Kimchi Jjigae: Replace pork with 1 can of tuna (drained).
  • Cheese version: Top with sliced cheddar or mozzarella just before serving.
  • Beef Brisket: Use thinly sliced brisket for a richer broth.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove. The flavor often improves the next day!

Can't find authentic Korean kimchi, gochujang, or kelp?
Message me on WhatsApp and I’ll help you order real Korean ingredients worldwide! 🇰🇷

Want more Korean dishes? Check out Bibimbap or Korean Fried Chicken too!

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