Tender & Flavorful Braised Pork Kimchi Stew with Aged Kimchi
Super Simple Pork and Aged Kimchi Stew: A Foolproof Recipe Even Kids Love
Introducing a hearty braised pork and aged kimchi stew that the whole family adores. This dish is incredibly delicious and satisfying – a recipe you’ll want to make again and again! It’s perfect for special occasions or for transforming an ordinary meal into a feast with its warm and deep flavors.
Main Ingredients- 1/3 head of well-fermented aged kimchi (approx. 600g)
- 600g pork shoulder or butt, cut for stewing/braising
- 1 large onion
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare 600g of fresh pork shoulder or butt, suitable for stewing. Using freshly bought meat will significantly enhance the flavor of the kimchi stew.
Step 2
Peel and thoroughly wash the large onion. Then, slice it into about 0.5cm thick pieces. The natural sweetness of the onion will add a wonderful depth of flavor to the stew.
Step 3
Choose a deep pot, such as a stainless steel pot or a Dutch oven. Line the bottom of the pot with the sliced onions, making sure there are no gaps. Placing onions at the bottom prevents the meat from sticking and adds a subtle sweetness.
Step 4
Lay the aged kimchi over the onions, either whole or cut into 2-3 pieces. Arrange the pork shoulder slices generously on top of the kimchi. Finally, cover the pork with more kimchi, ensuring the meat is fully enveloped. The tanginess of the kimchi and the richness of the pork will combine for an exceptional taste.
Step 5
Sprinkle 4 tablespoons of sugar evenly between the layers of kimchi and pork. Sugar helps to balance the tartness of the kimchi and enhances the savory notes of the pork, leading to a tender and deeply flavored dish.
Step 6
Finally, carefully pour 1/2 cup (approx. 100ml) of water or rice water around the edges of the pot. This liquid prevents the stew from scorching and helps it cook evenly and remain moist. You can adjust the amount of water based on the saltiness of your kimchi and its size.
Step 7
Cover the pot tightly and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 40 to 50 minutes, or until tender and well-cooked. You can stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. A delightful aroma wafting from the pot indicates it’s ready.
Step 8
Once cooked, cut the braised kimchi and pork into bite-sized pieces. Serve generously in a bowl, accompanied by warm rice. Enjoy the delicious kimchi, tender pork, and sweet onions! The leftover broth is also fantastic for mixing with rice.
