Tofu kimchi Meal prep
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Tofu Kimchi Meal Prep 🍲
Tofu kimchi is a beloved traditional dish in Korea that beautifully combines soft tofu with spicy kimchi. This dish is typically made by steaming or grilling the tofu, which is then served alongside well-fermented kimchi. The creamy texture of the tofu pairs perfectly with the spicy and crunchy flavor of the kimchi, creating a simple yet delightful meal.
One of the standout features of tofu kimchi is its rich flavor harmony. The tofu has a mild, creamy taste that balances the bold spiciness of the kimchi. When enjoyed together, the fermented depth of the kimchi enhances the overall experience, making each bite a flavorful delight.
In Korean cuisine, tofu kimchi is often enjoyed as a side dish or a light snack, and it has become a familiar and comforting taste for many Koreans. It's not only delicious but also a healthy option, as the tofu provides plenty of protein, while the fermented vegetables in kimchi offer a wealth of nutrients.
You can easily enjoy the flavors of a Korean restaurant at home with this tofu kimchi recipe. It’s perfect for meal prepping, as the savory stir-fried kimchi pairs wonderfully with tender tofu, making for a comforting and satisfying meal, especially on chilly days. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy it even on busy days when time is tight.
**If you can’t find sliced pork in your area, don’t worry! You can simply freeze a block of pork for about four hours until it's firm, then thinly slice it for this recipe. This way, you can still create an authentic and delicious tofu kimchi dish right in your own kitchen.
🛒 Ingredients
• Pork belly or shoulder (butt roast)
• Kimchi
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• Sesame oil or perilla oil
- Fish Sauce https://a.co/d/5S2v4bn
- Soy Sauce https://a.co/d/cL95fcn
- Sesame oil https://a.co/d/aM1paxG
- Red pepper powder https://a.co/d/7SuBX7K
👩🏻🍳 Recipe
1. Begin by heating some oil in a pot, then gently stir-fry the pork until it’s nicely browned. Add a spoonful of sugar to enhance the flavors and continue cooking the meat.
2. Next, add the kimchi to the pot and stir-fry everything together. Then, pour in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and a drizzle of either sesame or perilla oil. Keep stirring to blend the flavors.
3. Once the mixture has cooked down a bit, cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This will help soften the kimchi and develop a rich flavor.
4. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom or burning.
5. After 10 minutes, remove the lid. You’ll notice some liquid has formed at the bottom. Allow this liquid to reduce by about half by continuing to cook uncovered while stirring occasionally.
6. Once the mixture has cooled completely, divide it into meal prep containers and store them in the freezer for later use.
7. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply defrost the kimchi mix in the fridge overnight for the best results.
8. For the tofu, you can conveniently microwave it. If you prefer a softer texture, blanch the sliced tofu in boiling water for a few moments before serving.
📌 Cooking Tips
When you stir-fry the pork, it’s important to add the sugar first. Since sugar particles are larger than salt, they take a bit longer to penetrate the ingredients. By adding the sugar first, you allow the sweetness to distribute evenly throughout the dish, which helps to soften the meat and allows the other seasonings to absorb more effectively.
If you find that the kimchi isn’t as vibrant red as you’d like, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in some Korean chili flakes, known as gochugaru. This will not only enhance the color but also deepen the flavor, giving your dish an extra kick!