Kimchi Jjigae with Pork Soup Dumplings and Tofu

Kimchi Jjigae with Pork Soup Dumplings and Tofu


Bold, spicy, and deeply satisfying, this kimchi jjigae brings together mature kimchi, tender pork belly, tofu, and pork soup dumplings in a rich Korean-inspired stew. The kimchi is cooked until its flavour deepens, creating a broth that is tangy, savoury, and warming with every spoonful. By adding the dumplings separately, each bowl stays beautifully textured, making this a hearty, comforting dish that is perfect for cold nights or whenever you crave big, punchy flavour.

 

Dumplings: Fuli soup or pork/cabbage dumplings
Serves: 3–4
Prep: 15 mins
Cook: 30 mins
Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

  • 12 Pork Soup Dumplings
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil
  • 150 g pork belly, thinly sliced
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 250 g mature kimchi, chopped
  • 100 ml kimchi juice
  • 1 tbsp gochujang
  • 1 tbsp gochugaru
  • 1 tbsp light soy sauce
  • 750 ml water or light stock
  • 200 g firm tofu, cubed
  • 1 small leek, finely sliced
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • Spring onions, sliced, to garnish

Method

1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the pork belly and cook for 3–4 minutes until lightly browned.
3. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in the kimchi and cook for 5 minutes, allowing it to caramelise slightly and develop a deeper flavour.
5. Add the kimchi juice, gochujang, gochugaru, and soy sauce. Stir well.
6. Pour in the water or stock and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
8. Add the tofu and leek and simmer for another 5 minutes.
9. Meanwhile, cook the pork soup dumplings separately according to the package instructions.
10. Divide the cooked dumplings between serving bowls and ladle the hot kimchi stew over the top.
11. Finish with sesame oil and garnish with spring onions.

Tips

  • Cooking the dumplings separately prevents them from breaking and keeps the broth clear.
  • For a richer stew, use pork stock instead of water.
  • Add enoki mushrooms or sliced shiitake mushrooms for extra texture.
  • Top with a soft-boiled or fried egg for a heartier meal.