Spicy Kimchi Tuna Tofu Soup (Kimchi-jjigae)
A lean, flavor-packed Korean stew perfect for healthy eating. This tangy, spicy soup features tender tofu and hearty tuna simmered in a rich, fermented kimchi base.
Kimchi-jjigae is a cornerstone of Korean comfort food, cherished for its vibrant, spicy depth and adaptability. By utilizing fermented kimchi and protein-rich tofu and tuna, this version offers a satisfying, low-calorie meal that balances sharp acidity with savory warmth.
Ingredients
- 1 can canned tuna (reserve oil)
- 200 g well-fermented kimchi
- 300 g firm tofu
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 2 stalks green onions
- 1/2 red onion
- 500 ml water
- to taste chopped green onions (garnish)
Instructions
- 1Prepare the pot with tuna oil
Pour the oil from a can of tuna into a ceramic pot. This oil adds depth and flavor to the base of the soup, perfect for the weight-loss period.
Tip: Do not throw away the tuna oil, as it contains savory flavors that enhance the soup base. - 2Sauté the kimchi
Add well-fermented spicy kimchi to the heated pot with the tuna oil. Stir-fry the kimchi until its color changes and it becomes aromatic, which helps develop a deep sour and spicy flavor.
Tip: Using well-fermented, sour kimchi provides the best flavor for this soup. - 3Season with chili powder
Add a spoonful of chili powder to the sautéing kimchi. Stir to combine, which will enhance the vibrant red color and spicy intensity of the soup.
Tip: Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your personal preference for spiciness. - 4Sauté the aromatics
Add sliced green onions and red onions to the pot with the kimchi. Continue to stir-fry until the onions are softened and fragrant.
Tip: Stir-frying the onions with the kimchi helps to incorporate their sweetness into the soup base. - 5Add water and boil
Pour water into the pot with the stir-fried ingredients. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. You can adjust the water amount based on your desired soup consistency.
Tip: Bring the water to a steady boil before adding the remaining ingredients for the best flavor extraction. - 6Add tofu and tuna
Carefully add tofu pieces into the boiling soup, followed by the tuna chunks. Tuna and tofu are excellent low-calorie options for this healthy dish.
Tip: Handle the tofu gently to avoid breaking it into small pieces while stirring. - 7Add tuna and tofu
Add the prepared tofu cubes and the canned tuna chunks into the boiling soup. These ingredients are low in calories and add protein, making the soup ideal for a weight-loss diet.
Tip: Simmer the soup for about 20 minutes after adding these ingredients to allow the flavors to fully meld and to bring out the delicious aroma of the kimchi.
