Tofu with Kimchi

Name: Tofu with Kimchi
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Yield: 2 to 4 servings
Cuisine: Korean Menu
Ingredients: Tofu — 400 g; Salt — To taste; Pork Belly — 200 g; Aged Kimchi — 300 g; Brown Sugar — 1 tbsp; Korean Chilli Flakes — To taste; Sesame Oil — 1 tsp; Toasted Sesame Seeds — To taste

This classic Dubu Kimchi is a beloved Korean dish featuring tender, pan-seared tofu triangles served alongside a savoury, caramelised stir-fry of pork belly and aged kimchi. The contrast between the pillowy, warm tofu and the tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet pork-kimchi mixture creates a perfect, addictive balance. It is an incredibly easy, healthy, and satisfying meal that works just as well as a nutritious main or a delightful snack.

Cuisines

Cooking Instructions

Preparation: 20 minutes
Cooking: 20 minutes

Servings: 2 to 4

Notes:

Using well-fermented, aged kimchi that has been in the refrigerator for at least two weeks is highly recommended, as its deeper, sour flavour profile is essential for the best results.

Cutting the tofu into large triangle pieces not only makes them easier to handle and pan-fry but also ensures they retain a soft, warm interior while achieving a perfectly crispy exterior.

Pork belly releases plenty of its own natural fat during cooking, so you do not need to add extra oil to the pan when searing the meat; simply cook until golden, brown, and crispy.

The brown sugar is a key ingredient when stir-frying the kimchi, as it helps to mellow the intense sourness and adds a wonderful caramelisation to the overall dish.

If you prefer a little extra heat, adding a touch of Korean chilli flakes to the stir-fry mixture is a fantastic, optional way to boost the spicy depth of the kimchi.

Prepare Tofu
Slice the tofu into large triangle pieces, season generously with salt on both sides, and let rest for 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Pan Fry Tofu
Pat the tofu dry with paper towels and fry in a pan with a small amount of oil over medium heat until both sides are golden and crispy, then remove and set aside.

Sear Pork Belly
In the same pan, place the pork belly slices and cook until they are browned and crispy, then cut into bite-sized pieces directly in the pan using kitchen scissors.

Stir-Fry Kimchi
Push the pork to one side of the pan, add a little oil if necessary, then add the kimchi and brown sugar, stir-frying everything together for 3 minutes until well-combined and fragrant.

Garnish and Serve
Drizzle the stir-fried mixture with sesame oil, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, and arrange alongside the warm, crispy tofu pieces for an immediate, beautiful service.