Impress your guests with this spicy Korean kimchi stew
Kimchi jjigae, a staple in Korean cuisine, offers a vegetarian version full of vibrant flavor. This traditional stew, typically made with non-vegetarian ingredients, has been adapted for a meat-free diet without losing its essence. With roots in Korea and centuries of history, it's a culturally significant comfort food. Now, let's explore the spicy world of Korean kimchi stew.
Gather the following ingredients
Begin your vegetarian kimchi stew with these two cups of aged vegetarian kimchi for a richer taste, one tablespoon each of gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Include two minced garlic cloves, one sliced onion, 200 grams of firm tofu in cubes, four cups of vegetable broth, and chopped spring onions for garnish. Season with salt as needed. Prepare all items before cooking.
Preparing the base flavor
Begin by warming the sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. Introduce the minced garlic and sliced onion, sauteing them until they turn soft and aromatic. This crucial step lays the groundwork for your stew's flavor profile. As garlic and onion meld together, their scent will start to permeate your kitchen, heralding the promise of a flavorful meal ahead.
Adding depth with kimchi and seasonings
Once your base is ready, stir in the kimchi (along with its juice for extra flavor), gochujang (Korean chili paste), and soy sauce into the pot. The combination of these ingredients contributes to the stew's signature depth and spiciness. Let them cook together for about five minutes on medium heat; this allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Simmering with tofu and broth
Once the base has taken on the rich flavors, gently mix in the tofu cubes. Carefully pour the vegetable broth over this mixture. Heat until it reaches a boil, then lower the heat to achieve a gentle simmer. Allow the stew to cook for about 15 minutes. In this time, the ingredients will marry into a cohesive and flavorful blend, ready for enjoyment.
Final touches before serving
As the stew gently simmers, it infuses each bite with flavor. Taste periodically and adjust the salt to your liking. Once simmered for 15 minutes, sprinkle chopped spring onions on top for garnish before serving. This adds a fresh taste and a pop of color, making the dish as visually appealing as it is deliciously hot and ready to enjoy.
