Spicy Spam Kimchi Stew: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Rich and Flavorful Spam Kimchi Jjigae (Korean Stew)
A delightful combination of kimchi, Spam, and tuna! Learn how to easily make this hearty and delicious Korean stew at home. It’s a perfect side dish that will make you want to finish your rice bowl in no time.
Main Ingredients- 1 head well-fermented Napa cabbage kimchi
- 1 can (150g) canned tuna
- 1 can (200g) canned luncheon meat (like Spam)
Seasoning & Broth- 2 Tbsp tuna extract (or soup soy sauce)
- 2 ladles kimchi brine
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 Tbsp cooking wine (or mirin)
- 800ml water (approx. 4 cups)
- 2 Tbsp tuna extract (or soup soy sauce)
- 2 ladles kimchi brine
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 Tbsp cooking wine (or mirin)
- 800ml water (approx. 4 cups)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Cut the well-fermented kimchi into bite-sized pieces (about 2-3cm) and place them in a pot. Add 2 ladles of kimchi brine to enhance the tangy flavor, which will deepen the stew’s taste.
Step 2
Drain the oil slightly from the canned tuna and add it to the pot. Sprinkle with black pepper to remove any gamey smell, then add 1 Tbsp cooking wine and 2 Tbsp tuna extract for added umami. Stir-fry these ingredients over medium-low heat for about 2-3 minutes. This sautéing step is crucial for bringing out the flavors of the kimchi and luncheon meat.
Step 3
Pour 800ml of water (about 4 standard Korean cups) into the pot. You can adjust the amount of water according to your preference, but ensure the kimchi is mostly submerged.
Step 4
Cover the pot and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the kimchi to soften and the flavors to meld. For a richer taste, you can simmer it longer.
Step 5
While the stew is simmering, prepare the green onions. Slice them diagonally into approximately 3-4cm lengths. This will add a refreshing taste and aroma to the stew.
Step 6
Once the broth has simmered sufficiently, add the canned luncheon meat (Spam) by scooping it with a spoon into large chunks into the pot. (Scooping the meat with a spoon creates attractive pieces and allows some fat to render.) Add the sliced green onions as well.
Step 7
Simmer for another few minutes to allow all the ingredients to harmonize. Once the green onions are slightly wilted and the stew has thickened slightly, your delicious Spam Kimchi Jjigae is ready!
Step 8
Serve generously in bowls with hot rice and enjoy! This hearty and spicy stew is the perfect home-cooked meal to awaken your appetite.
