Spicy Tuna Kimchi Stew

Spicy Tuna Kimchi Stew is one of those meals that brings warmth and a little kick to your day. I first made it on a rainy afternoon when I was craving something hearty, spicy, and comforting. The combination of tuna, kimchi, and rich broth makes Spicy Tuna Kimchi Stew feel like a cozy hug in a bowl. I never expected a dish so simple to bring so much flavor and satisfaction. It’s a go-to meal when you want something quick but packed with bold flavors.

The Unique Flavor Blend

What makes Spicy Tuna Kimchi Stew special is how the spicy tuna and fermented kimchi come together to create a unique, tangy flavor. The kimchi adds that signature sourness and heat, while the tuna gives it a meaty, savory depth. I often use canned tuna, which makes it easy and quick to prepare. When you add garlic, ginger, and a touch of soy sauce, it all blends into a flavorful, spicy broth. Every bite of Spicy Tuna Kimchi Stew feels like a burst of warmth and flavor.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

Spicy Tuna Kimchi Stew doesn’t require much. You can find most of the ingredients in your pantry. It starts with a good base of kimchi, tuna, and some vegetables. After sautéing garlic and ginger, I add kimchi, water, and a little soy sauce to create the broth. The addition of tuna brings it all together, making the stew hearty yet light at the same time. This simple yet delicious dish is perfect for busy days or when you want a meal full of flavor without too much effort.

A Quick Meal That Feels Special

What I love about Spicy Tuna Kimchi Stew is how quickly it comes together, yet it feels like a special treat. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing it with friends, it always impresses. The heat from the kimchi gives it a little zing, while the tuna makes it feel comforting and filling. Spicy Tuna Kimchi Stew has become one of my go-to recipes for days when I need a tasty, easy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Chef’s Notes- Spicy Tuna Kimchi Stew

• Kimchi Quality Matters: Use well-fermented kimchi for the best flavor. The sourness and richness of aged kimchi bring depth to the stew.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a small amount of Korean hot pepper flakes (gochugaru) and gradually add more until you reach your desired spice level.
• Tuna Variations: For a different flavor, feel free to substitute the tuna with salmon or even cooked chicken breast. Both proteins work well in the stew.
• Tofu Alternatives: If you prefer a firmer texture, opt for tempeh instead of tofu. It’s an excellent source of protein and adds a nutty flavor.
• Vegetarian Options: Make the stew vegetarian by using extra tofu or mushrooms in place of tuna. It will still be hearty and satisfying.
• Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition and texture, feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Simmer Slowly: Allow the stew to simmer on low heat to meld the flavors together. Stir occasionally and add more water if the stew thickens too much.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It freezes well, so don’t hesitate to make a larger batch for meal prepping.
• Side Dish Pairings: Serve this stew with steamed white rice, noodles, or quinoa for a complete meal. Korean side dishes like kimchi, pickled vegetables, or a simple salad complement it perfectly.

Spicy Tuna Kimchi Stew

Recipe by Kimmy

Course: Main Course, SoupCuisine: KoreanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

Total time

45

minutes

Dive into the bold flavors of Spicy Tuna Kimchi Stew, a beloved Korean comfort dish that promises warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Perfect for chilly evenings or a hearty meal anytime, this stew combines well-fermented kimchi with tender tuna, creating a harmonious balance of spicy, sour, and savory tastes. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, it’s a favorite among families and ideal for camping adventures. Let the rich, bubbling goodness of this stew bring a touch of Korean culinary magic to your table!

Ingredients

• Protein

• 2 cans premium tuna in oil drained

• 1 cup firm tofu cubed into bite-sized pieces

• Vegetables

• 1 pound aged kimchi sliced into 2-inch segments

• 1 medium yellow onion thinly sliced

• Seasonings

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• 2 tsp Korean gochugaru (red pepper flakes)

• 2 tsp Turbinado or brown sugar

• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil

• Liquids

• 2.5 cups water

• 1/4 cup reserved kimchi juice (optional)

• Alternative Ingredients:

• Tuna: Substitute with salmon or chicken for a different protein option.

• Kimchi: Use sauerkraut or pickled vegetables if kimchi is unavailable.

• Turbinado Sugar: Replace with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.

• Gochugaru: Use red chili powder or paprika for heat if unavailable.

• Tofu: Replace with tempeh for a firmer texture.

• Sesame Oil: Use olive oil for a different flavor profile.

Directions

• Preparing the Base – Begin by placing the sliced kimchi into a sturdy, wide-bottomed pot. Introduce the optional kimchi juice, sliced onion, both parts of the green onions, kosher salt, gochugaru, sugar, and toasted sesame oil into the pot. Pour in 2½ cups of water, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Cover the pot and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, cooking for approximately 25 minutes. Keep an eye on the stew to prevent boiling over; slightly loosen the lid if needed and add more water if the liquid reduces too much.
• Incorporating Proteins – After the initial simmer, use a wooden spoon to stir the stew gently. Add the drained tuna and tofu cubes to the pot, mixing them evenly into the broth. Allow the stew to continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, or until the tofu absorbs the flavors and softens.
• Final Touches – Once cooked, remove the pot from heat. Garnish the stew with the finely chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve the Spicy Tuna Kimchi Stew hot, accompanied by steamed rice and your choice of additional side dishes for a complete meal.

Equipment

• heavy pot
• wooden spoon
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• measuring cups and spoons

Notes

• For the best flavor, use well-fermented kimchi as its sourness enhances the stew’s depth. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of Korean hot pepper flakes or add a fresh chili. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice, but you can also serve it alongside noodles or quinoa for variety. To make it vegetarian, replace tuna with extra tofu or mushrooms. Leftovers freeze well, making it a perfect option for meal prepping. Enhance the stew with additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture and nutrients.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Potassium: 400mg
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Vitamin A: 10IU
• Vitamin C: 15mg
• Calcium: 200mg
• Iron: 3mg

FAQ- Spicy Tuna Kimchi Stew

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes! The stew actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have time to develop. It also freezes well, so you can prepare it in advance and store leftovers for up to a month.

Is this dish spicy?

Yes, this dish has a spicy kick due to the Korean hot pepper flakes (gochugaru). However, you can adjust the spice level by using less pepper flakes or omitting them if you prefer a milder stew.

Can I substitute fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tuna instead of canned, but be sure to cook it first before adding it to the stew. Fresh tuna will give a different texture but will still taste delicious.

What can I use if I don’t have kimchi?

If you can’t find kimchi, you can substitute it with sauerkraut or pickled vegetables for a similar sour and tangy flavor. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be tasty!

Can I make this stew vegan?

Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply replace the tuna with more tofu or mushrooms, and ensure that the kimchi used is vegan-friendly (some kimchi contains fish sauce).