Cook Korean tofu kimchi stew in 4 simple steps
Korean tofu kimchi stew, or kimchi jjigae, is a celebrated dish in Korea for its spicy, savory flavors. Originating from Korea, this stew has been a staple for centuries, often made with aged kimchi. It's comforting and warms from the inside out, perfect for vegetarians and those avoiding eggs. This version keeps the traditional taste without animal products. Let's get cooking.
Gather the following ingredients
For this vegetarian and eggless Korean tofu kimchi stew, gather one block of firm tofu (14 ounces), two cups of vegan kimchi (aged preferred), one tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes), two tablespoons soy sauce, one tablespoon sesame oil, three minced garlic cloves, four cups vegetable broth, two sliced green onions for garnish, and one teaspoon sugar.
Preparing the base flavor
Begin by heating sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. Then, add the minced garlic, stirring until it becomes fragrant but not browned, which should take about one minute. This step is crucial as the aroma of garlic sets the foundational flavor for our stew, creating a rich and inviting base without overpowering the dish.
Adding kimchi and seasonings
Next, add your vegan kimchi to the pot along with its juices. The kimchi juices are crucial as they add depth to the stew's flavor profile. Stir in gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) and soy sauce at this stage to introduce some heat and umami. Let it simmer for about five minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Pouring in broth and simmering
After your base has simmered briefly, proceed to pour in four cups of vegetable broth, then add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity from the kimchi. Next, bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes. This gradual simmering process is vital for developing a rich and deep flavor profile in the stew.
Adding tofu and final touches
Cut your block of firm tofu into bite-sized pieces and add them to your stew during the last five minutes of cooking time so they can absorb some flavors without falling apart. Once done, garnish with sliced green onions before serving hot with rice or on its own for a comforting meal that brings traditional Korean flavors right into your home kitchen.
