Kimchi Jjigae Recipe for One: Your Cozy Korean Comfort

Last updated on June 7, 2024

Kimchi jjigae is a spicy Korean stew made with kimchi, tofu, and various veggies that’s perfect for a hearty, warming meal.

Ready for a soul-warming Korean delight just for you? Get ready to dive into the savory, spicy, and umami-packed world of kimchi jjigae! Here, you’ll find every detail to craft a bowl that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Buckle up, solo chef! This fiery comfort food is calling your name.

Kimchi Jjigae

kimchi jjigae

Kimchi Jjigae is a comforting Korean stew that’s spicy, hearty, and full of vibrant flavors. It keeps you warm on chilly nights and gives your taste buds a roller coaster ride. Perfect for those who love an umami kick. Let’s dive into creating this fiery delight!

  • Cooking method: Simmering
  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 20 minutes
  • Cuisine type: Korean

Ingredients

  • 1 cup aged kimchi, chopped
  • 1/4 cup kimchi juice
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 100g pork belly, sliced thinly
  • 1/4 block tofu, diced
  • 1/2 onion, sliced
  • 1 green onion, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • A dash of sesame oil

Cooking Instructions

  1. Grab a pot and heat it over medium flame. Splash in some sesame oil for that nutty aroma. Ah, smells good already!
  2. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for 30 seconds. Don’t burn it, unless you like the flavor of regret.
  3. Add the pork belly slices and cook until they’re no longer pink. Healthy or crispy? Your call!
  4. Throw in the chopped kimchi and stir for about 2 minutes. Spread the kimchi love!
  5. Pour in the kimchi juice and water. It’s starting to look like a soup now – magic!
  6. Add the soy sauce, gochugaru, and sugar. Give it a good stir, like you mean it.
  7. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it bubble away for 15 minutes.
  8. Introduce the tofu and onion to the party. Simmer for another 5 minutes until tofu is heated through.
  9. Top off with the chopped green onion. Simmer for an additional minute.
  10. Serve piping hot and enjoy the fiery goodness. Watch out for that first lava-like spoonful!

Suggestions

  • If pork isn’t your thing, swap it out for chicken or mushrooms for a veggie twist.
  • For garnish, consider a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of extra sesame oil.
  • Make it a cheesy adventure by adding a slice of gooey mozzarella on top. Melty magic!
  • Need an extra kick? Add a spoonful of gochujang (Korean red chili paste) for more heat.