Rich and Deep Pork Kimchi Stew (Kimchi Jjim)
The Perfect Comfort Food: Delicious Pork and Kimchi Stew Recipe!
This is a hearty and flavorful Pork Kimchi Stew (Kimchi Jjim) made with well-fermented kimchi, which pairs perfectly with tender pieces of pork. While it’s called a ‘jjim’ (stewed dish), we’ll prepare it with plenty of broth, making it enjoyable like a soup or stew, allowing you to savor every spoonful. Get ready for a deeply satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Main Ingredients- Pork shoulder/leg 1kg (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Well-fermented kimchi 1/4 head (approx. 1kg, keep whole)
- Onion 1/2 (sliced thinly)
- Green onion 1 stalk (cut diagonally)
Seasoning Ingredients- Kimchi brine 3 ladlefuls (ladle size: approx. 40g each)
- Store-bought doenjang (soybean paste) 1 Tbsp
- Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) 3 Tbsp
- Fish sauce (anchovy) 3 Tbsp
- Minced ginger 1 Tbsp
- Minced garlic 1 Tbsp
- Sugar 2 Tbsp
- Plum extract 1 Tbsp
- Water 1 liter
- Kimchi brine 3 ladlefuls (ladle size: approx. 40g each)
- Store-bought doenjang (soybean paste) 1 Tbsp
- Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) 3 Tbsp
- Fish sauce (anchovy) 3 Tbsp
- Minced ginger 1 Tbsp
- Minced garlic 1 Tbsp
- Sugar 2 Tbsp
- Plum extract 1 Tbsp
- Water 1 liter
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the pork. We’re using pork shoulder/leg for its tender texture and ability to absorb flavors beautifully. Cut it into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly and soaks up all the delicious marinade.
Step 2
Next, get your well-fermented kimchi ready. The amount shown is about 1/4 of a large head, roughly 1kg. Don’t chop the kimchi; place the whole quarter head directly into your pot. This allows the kimchi to break down slowly and infuse the broth with its rich flavor.
Step 3
Now, let’s make the seasoning paste, the heart of this delicious stew. In a bowl, combine all the seasoning ingredients except for the 1 liter of water: kimchi brine, doenjang, gochugaru, fish sauce, minced ginger, minced garlic, sugar, and plum extract. Mix them thoroughly until well combined.
Step 4
Pour this flavorful seasoning paste directly over the kimchi and pork in the pot. Ensure the ingredients are evenly coated with the mixture.
Step 5
To make sure no delicious seasoning is wasted, add the 1 liter of water to the bowl you used for mixing the paste. Swirl the water around to rinse out any remaining seasoning, creating a flavorful broth base.
Step 6
Pour this seasoned water into the pot. This will create enough liquid for the stew to simmer beautifully and ensure the pork and kimchi cook evenly.
Step 7
Cover the pot tightly with a lid and turn the heat to high. Let it simmer vigorously for about 1 hour. This long simmering time is key to tenderizing the pork and allowing the kimchi to fully develop its flavor. If the liquid reduces too much, you can add a little more water.
Step 8
While the stew is simmering, prepare the aromatics. Slice the onion thinly and cut the green onion diagonally. These will add a wonderful depth of flavor and a touch of freshness to the finished dish.
Step 9
After 1 hour, carefully remove the lid. Gently stir the contents of the pot, then add the sliced onions and green onions. Distribute them evenly over the kimchi and pork.
Step 10
Stir everything together one more time, then replace the lid. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes. This allows the onions and green onions to soften and release their sweetness into the stew. Once done, turn off the heat, and your delicious Pork Kimchi Stew is ready!
Step 11
Now for the presentation! Cut the kimchi into manageable pieces, keeping some length for visual appeal, and arrange them in a serving dish. Place the tender pork pieces on top of the kimchi. Ladle the rich, flavorful broth generously over everything. This dish is wonderfully versatile – you can enjoy it like a hearty stew with rice, or savor the tender meat and kimchi as a main course. A true two-in-one delight!
