Tuna Kimchi Stew (참치 김치찌개, Tuna Kimchi Jjigae, Chamchi Kimchi Jjigae)

Chelsea Dec 31, 2024

Welcome back to Chelsea’s K-Food Recipes! Today, we’re making a cozy and savory Korean comfort dish — Tuna Kimchi Stew (참치 김치찌개, Tuna Kimchi Jjigae).

This simple yet flavorful stew combines well-fermented kimchi with canned tuna, creating a rich, hearty broth in minutes. It’s a beloved home-style meal in Korea — budget-friendly, deeply satisfying, and perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving something warm and bold.

🍲 Ingredients

  • 1 cup aged kimchi (preferably sour)
  • 1 can tuna (in oil, drained)
  • 1/2 onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 2 cups water or anchovy broth
  • 1 block tofu (optional, cubed)
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Kimchi & Tuna

Cut kimchi into bite-sized pieces if needed. Sour, well-fermented kimchi gives the stew the best depth of flavor.
Drain the tuna — reserve a little oil if you like a richer taste.

2️⃣ Stir-fry the Base

Heat sesame oil in a pot over medium heat.
Add kimchi, onion, and garlic. Stir-fry 3–5 minutes until the kimchi softens and becomes fragrant.
Add gochugaru now if you want extra spice.

3️⃣ Add Broth & Tuna

Pour in water or anchovy broth.
Add tuna and gently break it apart.
Mix in soy sauce and simmer 10 minutes.

4️⃣ Add Tofu & Green Onion

Add tofu gently and simmer 5 more minutes.
Add chopped green onions and stir lightly.

5️⃣ Taste & Serve

Season with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve piping hot with steamed white rice (흰쌀밥, Heen Ssal Bap) — the ultimate pairing!

💡 Tips for Perfect Tuna Kimchi Jjigae

  • Older kimchi = deeper, richer flavor
  • Add tuna oil for extra umami
  • Try adding mushrooms or zucchini for more texture
  • Best served bubbling hot with rice and kimchi on the side

Tuna Kimchi Stew is the ultimate Korean pantry-friendly comfort meal — bold, warming, and incredibly satisfying. Whether it’s a lazy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, this dish always hits the spot.

Thanks for cooking with me on Chelsea’s K-Food Recipes — more delicious Korean dishes are on the way! 🇰🇷✨