Korean Chilli Tuna – Spicy Flavors in Every Bite – A Quick and Satisfying Tuna Stir-Fry

Korean Chilli Tuna – a fiery and flavorful stir-fry that’s as convenient as it is delicious! This dish combines tender tuna, hearty vegetables, and a spicy sauce that packs a punch of umami and heat. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you're craving something quick yet full of flavor. While chilli tuna is readily available in Korean grocery stores, living abroad makes it harder to find. That’s why I’ve perfected my own homemade version! This Korean Chilli Tuna recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors and a touch of spice in their meals.

What Makes Korean Chilli Tuna So Special?

Imagine biting into tender tuna, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a sauce that’s the perfect blend of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a healthy punch! Tuna is loaded with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while vegetables like carrots and peas provide essential vitamins. Plus, the kick from gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) and gochujang (spicy fermented red chili paste) brings everything together for a dish that’s both comforting and full of vibrant flavors.

Engaging Story and Health Benefits:

Living abroad has its challenges, especially when it comes to finding Korean pantry staples. Back in Korea, you can easily pick up a can of chilli tuna at the local supermarket, but here, I have to get creative. This homemade version tastes even better than store-bought, with fresh ingredients and a richer flavor. Plus, making it yourself allows you to control the spice level and adjust the recipe to your liking.

Not only is this Korean Chilli Tuna delicious, but it’s also a healthy option. Tuna is an excellent source of lean protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. The veggies add a dose of fiber and essential vitamins, making this dish nutritious and balanced. Whether you're serving it with rice or enjoying it on its own, this dish is a flavorful way to get your daily nutrients.

 








Recipe: Korean Chilli Tuna – Spicy Flavors in Every Bite

Servings: 2-3


Ingredients:

  • Main Ingredients:
    • 1 can of tuna (400g-420g), drained
    • 1 medium onion, finely diced
    • 1 medium potato, finely diced
    • ½ carrot, finely diced
    • 1 green chilli, finely diced
    • 3 spring onions, thinly sliced
    • 1 tbsp peas
    • 2 tsp sesame seeds
    • A dash of sesame oil

  • Sauce Ingredients:
    • 1 tbsp sugar
    • 2 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
    • 2 tbsp soy sauce
    • 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
    • 1 tbsp ketchup
    • 2 tbsp mirin
    • 1 tbsp minced garlic
    • ½ cup water


Instructions:

  1. Prep the Vegetables: Use a chopper to finely dice the potato, onion, carrot, and green chilli. Slice the spring onions thinly.
  2. Cook the Vegetables: Heat some oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spring onions and cook until fragrant, creating a flavorful spring onion oil. Then, add the diced vegetables, cooking until softened.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, combine sugar, gochugaru, soy sauce, gochujang, ketchup, mirin, minced garlic, and water. Stir well.
  4. Add Tuna and Sauce: Pour the sauce into the pan with the cooked vegetables, stirring to combine. Then, gently fold in the drained tuna, cooking for just 1-2 minutes until the tuna is heated through and well-coated in the sauce. Be careful not to overcook the tuna, as it is already cooked.
  5. Finishing Touches: Drizzle a bit of sesame oil over the dish and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.


Serving suggestion:
Serve this Korean Chilli Tuna with steamed rice and a side of roasted seaweed. The combination of spicy tuna, fluffy rice, and crispy seaweed makes for a deliciously satisfying meal.


Tips for Making Korean Chilli Tuna:

  • Substitutions: If you want a milder dish, reduce the amount of gochugaru or replace it with paprika for a less spicy option. You can also substitute the tuna with cooked chicken or tofu to accommodate different dietary preferences.
  • Make-Ahead Tips: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in a pan before serving, and it’ll taste just as fresh!
  • Freezing: You can freeze this chilli tuna in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Wrap-Up:

Korean Chilli Tuna is a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s perfect for anyone craving a spicy kick. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight meals or share a taste of Korea with friends and family, this recipe delivers every time. Plus, it’s versatile, healthy, and easy to make. Try it out and let me know how you enjoy it! Feel free to share your own version of Korean Chilli Tuna in the comments below.

 


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키워드: 한국식 매운 참치 요리, 고추장 참치 레시피, 매운 참치 볶음, 참치와 야채 요리, 한국 매운 참치 만들기, 고추참치 레시피

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