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Chamchi Jjigae (Canned Tuna Stew)

A warming Korean tuna stew with kimchi, tofu, and vegetables in a savory broth. Ready in 25 minutes for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Total time
25 min
Servings
2
Calories
185
Protein
22g
Chamchi Jjigae (Canned Tuna Stew)
koreanseafoodstewquickspicycomfort food

Ingredients

  • 1 can (5 oz) Canned tuna in oil
  • 1 cup, roughly chopped Kimchi
  • 7 oz, cubed Firm tofu
  • ½ cup Diced onion
  • 1 teaspoon Gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
  • 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
  • 2 cups Water
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons Sliced scallion

Instructions

  1. 1

    Open the can of tuna and pour it into a small bowl, keeping the oil that comes with it.

  2. 2

    Cut the tofu block into 1/2-inch cubes by first slicing it lengthwise into three flat slabs, then slicing each slab crosswise into strips, then slicing those strips perpendicular to make cubes.

  3. 3

    Cut the onion in half from root to tip, then peel away the papery skin, then cut each half into thin half-moon pieces by slicing crosswise.

  4. 4

    Chop the kimchi into bite-sized pieces about the size of your thumb, discarding any very tough stems.

  5. 5

    Pour 2 cups of water into a medium pot and place it over medium-high heat until you see large bubbles rapidly breaking the surface, about 3 minutes.

  6. 6

    Add the tuna (including its oil) to the boiling water, breaking it into bite-sized chunks with a wooden spoon as it enters the pot.

  7. 7

    Stir in the 1 teaspoon of gochugaru (red chili flakes) until the broth turns a rusty orange-red color and you smell a strong spicy aroma, about 30 seconds.

  8. 8

    Add the chopped kimchi and diced onion to the pot, stirring once to combine.

  9. 9

    Slide the tofu cubes into the pot gently so they do not break apart.

  10. 10

    Pour in the 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and stir gently once to mix it through without breaking the tofu.

  11. 11

    Let the stew simmer over medium heat for 8 minutes, until the tofu is warmed through and the broth tastes savory and slightly spicy.

  12. 12

    Drizzle the 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over the surface of the stew.

  13. 13

    Ladle the stew into two bowls, dividing the tuna, tofu, and vegetables evenly between them.

  14. 14

    Scatter the 2 tablespoons of sliced scallion on top of each bowl and serve immediately.

Tools you’ll need

  • Medium pot with lid
  • Small bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Ladle
  • Two serving bowls

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