Vietnamese Kimchi and Pork Chops Stew: A Savory, Spicy Delight
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Description:
This hearty Vietnamese-inspired pork chop stew, often enjoyed for its rich flavors, combines tender pork chops, spicy chili sauce, and the tangy zest of pickled mustard greens, also known as kimchi in some parts of the world. While this dish doesn’t require exact measurements, it offers plenty of room for adjustment based on your own taste preferences, allowing for a personalized twist. The stew is savory, slightly spicy, and bursting with flavor, making it the perfect dish for those seeking something both comforting and exciting to serve for a weeknight dinner.
Though the recipe may seem simple, the combination of simmered pork chops, the acidity of the pickled greens, and the richness of the broth is truly remarkable. This recipe is naturally adaptable, so feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tomatoes | 2 | Fresh, diced |
| Canola oil | 3 tablespoons | For sautéing |
| Chili sauce | ½ tablespoon | Adjust based on heat preference |
| Water | 1 cup | For simmering the stew |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | To taste |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon | To taste |
| Pickled mustard greens | 6 cups | Squeeze out excess salt water |
| Pork chops | 4-6 pieces | Bone-in or boneless, washed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 213.1 kcal |
| Fat | 14.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 50.6 mg |
| Sodium | 135.1 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 4.3 g |
| Fiber | 1.3 g |
| Sugar | 2.8 g |
| Protein | 16.1 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Pickled Greens:
Begin by squeezing the saltwater out of the pickled mustard greens. This step is important because it reduces the excess saltiness, ensuring that the dish doesn’t become overly salty. -
Clean the Pork Chops:
Rinse the pork chops under cold water to remove any impurities. For a cleaner taste, you may want to briefly boil the chops in water for a few minutes to remove the marrow’s strong odor. After boiling, discard the water and set the pork chops aside. -
Sauté the Tomatoes:
In a large pot, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced tomatoes to the pot and sauté them for about 3 minutes until they soften and release their juices. -
Add the Pickled Greens:
Once the tomatoes are softened, add the squeezed pickled mustard greens to the pot. Stir the ingredients together, allowing the flavors to begin combining. -
Add the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the pork chops into the pot with the tomatoes and pickled greens. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. -
Season the Stew:
Season with salt, black pepper, and chili sauce according to your taste. Keep in mind that the pickled mustard greens already bring a salty and sour element to the dish, so it’s important to be cautious with additional salt. -
Sauté the Ingredients:
Stir the ingredients in the pot for about 4-5 minutes, ensuring that the flavors meld together and the pork chops are coated with the seasoning. -
Add Water and Simmer:
Pour in the water, ensuring the pork chops and vegetables are submerged. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through. If you prefer your pork chops to be more well-done, feel free to simmer them for longer. -
Adjust the Seasoning:
Taste the stew during the simmering process and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more chili sauce for extra heat or a pinch of salt if you feel it needs more flavor. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the pork chops are tender and the broth has developed a deep, rich flavor, remove the pot from the heat. Serve the stew hot with steamed rice or a side of crusty bread to soak up the savory broth.
Tips for Customizing Your Stew:
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili sauce or add some sliced fresh chilies to the stew. For a milder flavor, reduce the chili sauce or omit it entirely.
- Add Vegetables: You can enhance the nutritional profile of this stew by adding more vegetables, such as carrots, onions, or bell peppers. Simply chop them and add them to the pot when sautéing the tomatoes.
- Make it a Soup: If you prefer a thinner broth, simply add more water or low-sodium broth to achieve the desired consistency.
This Vietnamese-style pork chop stew with pickled mustard greens is a flavorful, comforting dish perfect for a cozy family dinner. Enjoy the balance of salty, sour, and spicy elements that make this dish so uniquely satisfying.
Conclusion
With its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, this Vietnamese-inspired stew offers a delightful twist on traditional comfort food. Whether you’re new to cooking Vietnamese dishes or an experienced cook looking for something new, this simple yet flavorful stew is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings to your liking, as the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and the way you can tailor it to suit your tastes. Enjoy!
