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

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
Open the can of tuna and pour it into a small bowl, keeping the oil that comes with it.
- 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
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
Chop the kimchi into bite-sized pieces about the size of your thumb, discarding any very tough stems.
- 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
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
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
Add the chopped kimchi and diced onion to the pot, stirring once to combine.
- 9
Slide the tofu cubes into the pot gently so they do not break apart.
- 10
Pour in the 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and stir gently once to mix it through without breaking the tofu.
- 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
Drizzle the 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over the surface of the stew.
- 13
Ladle the stew into two bowls, dividing the tuna, tofu, and vegetables evenly between them.
- 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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