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Instant Pot Kimchi Jjigae: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe!

Instant Pot Kimchi Jjigae

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.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

Instructions

  1. Cut pork belly (or tofu), mince garlic and ginger, and cube tofu.
  2. Set Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’. Heat oil and sauté garlic and ginger for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add pork belly or tofu; cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in kimchi, gochugaru, and gochujang; cook for 3 minutes.
  5. Pour in broth, soy sauce, and fish sauce; mix well.
  6. Seal lid; cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
  7. Let naturally release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
  8. 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.

Nutrition

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