Tofu with Sautéed Kimchi, also known as Dubu Kimchi, is a delightful Korean dish that serves both as a popular drinking snack (anju) and a flavorful way to use leftover kimchi. The marriage of sautéed kimchi’s bold and tangy flavors with the delicate, soft taste of boiled or steamed tofu creates a perfectly balanced dish that is both comforting and delicious. This simple and quick-to-prepare recipe brings out the best of aged kimchi, transforming it into a delightful accompaniment to the tofu. Whether you’re looking for an enjoyable anju to pair with your favorite drink or a satisfying side dish for your meal, Dubu Kimchi is sure to become a new favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe to create this mouthwatering dish!
INGREDIENTS
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- ½ cup thinly sliced pork (or bacon), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup Napa Cabbage Kimchi, roughly chopped into 1-inch pieces (older, aged kimchi is best)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 block (12-to 14-ounce package) firm tofu
PREPARATIONS
- Coat a large skillet or wok with the vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add the pork and sauté until almost cooked through, about 5 minutes. Drain off excess oil if necessary.
- Add the garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Add the kimchi and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes a darker reddish-brown. Add the sugar, soy sauce, sesame seeds, and sesame oil to the pan and cook, stirring, for about 1 minute. Remove from heat.
- Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to a gentle boil. Add the whole tofu block and boil for 3 minutes. Drain the tofu well and pat it dry with a paper towel.
- Gently cut the tofu into rectangles or squares.
- To serve, arrange the tofu on a serving platter and top with the sautéed kimchi. Alternatively, you can place the sautéed kimchi in the center of the serving plate and arrange the tofu around it.
YIELD
- Serves 4
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
- For a vegetarian version, simply omit the pork.
TIPS
- This dish tastes best with well-aged kimchi that has developed a deep, tangy flavor.
- Adjust the level of spiciness to your liking by adding more or less kimchi.
In conclusion, Tofu with Sautéed Kimchi, or Dubu Kimchi, is a fantastic Korean dish that brings together the delicious flavors of sautéed kimchi and soft, delicate tofu. Whether you’re looking for a savory anju to pair with your favorite drink or a delightful side dish for your meal, this recipe won’t disappoint. The combination of aged kimchi, pork (optional), and the unique texture of tofu creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you craving for more. Embrace the simplicity of this dish and let the savory and tangy flavors of kimchi dance on your taste buds, complemented by the mellow taste of the tofu. Enjoy the delightful Dubu Kimchi at home and savor the authentic taste of Korean cuisine.
