Instant Pot Kimchi Jjigae: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe!
This Instant Pot Kimchi Jjigae is a bold, spicy Korean stew made easy and fast using the Instant Pot. Packed with probiotics, protein, and deep umami flavors, it’s a comforting and customizable dish that comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Author: Anna Adam
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 20 min
- Total Time: 30 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main dishes
- Cuisine: Korean
- 1½ cups fermented kimchi
- ½ pound pork belly, sliced (or tofu for vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 block soft tofu, cubed
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- Cut pork belly (or tofu), mince garlic and ginger, and cube tofu.
- Set Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’. Heat oil and sauté garlic and ginger for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add pork belly or tofu; cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in kimchi, gochugaru, and gochujang; cook for 3 minutes.
- Pour in broth, soy sauce, and fish sauce; mix well.
- Seal lid; cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
- Let naturally release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
- Stir in green onions and adjust seasoning to taste.
Notes
- Protein Alternatives: Swap pork with tofu or chicken thighs.
- Kimchi Choice: Use older, well-fermented kimchi for deeper flavor.
- Broth Options: Anchovy stock, veggie, or chicken broth work great.
- Vegan Version: Use tofu, mushrooms, and vegetable broth; omit fish sauce.
- Texture Boost: Add daikon or potato chunks.
- Garnish: Top with scallions, sesame seeds, or fresh herbs.
- Pair With: Steamed rice, Korean side dishes (banchan), and chilled soju or beer.
Keywords: Instant Pot Kimchi Jjigae, comfort food, easy recipe, quick meal, delicious Korean stew, cooking tips, tasty results