Remove excess red pepper powder and cabbage from the outer layer of old or fresh kimchi by gently brushing it off, then cut into bite-sized pieces about 3–4cm wide.
Cut pork into large pieces, slice green chili peppers and large green onions diagonally, and cut tofu into thick, one-bite-sized chunks.
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pot, then add the prepared fresh kimchi and pork.
Stir over medium heat, ensuring the pork doesn’t burn, until the fat has fully rendered and all moisture has evaporated—cook for at least 5 minutes.
Once the moisture is gone and the mixture is fragrant and lightly browned, pour in 800ml of water and add 2 tablespoons of shrimp paste to set the initial seasoning.
When the broth begins to boil, add 150g of fully fermented pa kimchi and simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes to develop deep flavor.
After 10 minutes, check the seasoning and adjust with a pinch of salt if needed. Add the pre-cut tofu, green onions, and green chili peppers.
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to absorb the broth and the flavors to meld.
Prepare kimchi, pork, vegetables, and tofu in appropriate sizes.
Heat oil in a pot, stir-fry kimchi and pork over medium heat until moisture evaporates, then add water and shrimp paste.
Add well-fermented sour pa kimchi and simmer for 10 minutes, then add tofu and remaining vegetables and cook for 5 more minutes to finish.
Cooking tips 💡
Avoid leaving excess kimchi seasoning or cabbage in the mix, as it can make the broth heavy or give it an off smell—gently brush off the outer layer before use.
Cooking pork and kimchi together from the start prevents the pork from becoming tough and keeps it tender while allowing the kimchi to absorb the pork’s rich flavor.
Use only fully fermented, tangy pa kimchi to ensure the stew achieves its signature refreshing, sweet-savory umami.
Jung Ho-young's Fresh Tuna Kimchi Jjigae
A premium, high-end tuna kimchi stew made with fresh, fatty fresh tuna instead of canned tuna