Kimchi Jjigae (Korean Kimchi Stew)
Kimchi jjigae is a classic Korean stew built on well-fermented kimchi, tender pork belly, and Spam, simmered with tofu and anchovy broth for a deeply savory, spicy, and comforting one-pot meal.
Kimchi jjigae is a classic Korean stew built on well-fermented kimchi, tender pork belly, and Spam, simmered with tofu and anchovy broth for a deeply savory, spicy, and comforting one-pot meal.
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Prepare your ingredients: slice the onion, chop the green onions, chop the kimchi, slice the tofu and Spam, and cut the pork belly into bite-sized pieces.
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, sauté the pork belly, sliced onions, and minced garlic until the pork is lightly browned.
Add the chopped kimchi and kimchi juice to the pot and continue to sauté for another minute.
Stir in the gochugaru, gochujang, soup soy sauce, and optional sugar. Mix well to combine all the seasonings with the pork and kimchi.
Pour in the water and add the anchovy broth coins or dashi pack. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer.
As it simmers, skim off any excess fat that rises to the surface.
Add the sliced tofu, Spam, and chopped green onions to the pot. Continue to simmer for a few more minutes until everything is heated through.
Serve the kimchi jjigae hot with a side of fresh, steaming white rice.
Store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding water if the stew has thickened.
large pot or Dutch oven
Use sour, well-fermented kimchi that has been aged several days or longer. The tanginess is essential to the stew's flavor profile.
Yes. Beef (short ribs or chuck), chicken thighs, or seafood (shrimp, clams) work well. Adjust simmering time based on your protein choice.
Spam is traditional and adds richness, but you can omit it or replace it with bacon, sausage, or extra pork belly if preferred.
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding water if the stew has thickened.
Yes. Omit the pork, Spam, and anchovy broth, and substitute vegetable broth. Add mushrooms, potatoes, or extra tofu for substance.
