Classic Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae)
A beloved Korean fusion comfort dish, this spicy, bubbling stew is packed with savory meats, fresh vegetables, and chewy ramen noodles in a bold, chili-infused broth.
Budae Jjigae, or Army Stew, emerged in the post-war era as a resourceful blend of traditional Korean flavors and surplus ingredients from US military bases. It has since become a quintessential comfort food, prized for its deeply satisfying spicy broth and versatile mix of ingredients. Gathered around a single bubbling pot, it is the ultimate dish for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 200 g spam
- 150 g sausage
- 200 g firm tofu
- 100 g bean sprouts
- 100 g enoki mushrooms
- 1 block ramen noodles
- 1 slice processed yellow cheese
- 2 stalks green onions
- 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili powder)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp sugar
- 500 ml anchovy or vegetable broth
Instructions
- 1Prepare the sauce base
In a small bowl, combine the chili paste, minced garlic, and chili powder. These aromatics form the foundation of the stews savory and spicy flavor profile.
Tip: Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your spice preference. - 2Blend the sauce ingredients
Using a spoon, thoroughly mix the chili paste, garlic, chili powder, soy sauce, and sugar until a smooth, uniform sauce is formed.
Tip: Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved into the mixture for a balanced taste. - 3Assemble the pot
Start by layering bean sprouts at the bottom of the pot. Arrange the enoki mushrooms, tofu slices, spam, and sliced sausages neatly around the pot to ensure even cooking.
Tip: Place firmer vegetables like onions at the bottom to provide a sturdy base. - 4Add the ramen noodles
Once the stew base is boiling, place the blocks of ramen noodles into the center of the pot. Allow them to cook in the flavorful broth until tender.
Tip: Avoid overcooking the noodles; they should remain firm to the bite. - 5Garnish with cheese
As a final touch, place a slice of yellow cheese directly onto the hot ramen noodles. The cheese will melt into the broth, adding a creamy richness to the stew.
Tip: Using a slice of processed cheddar cheese works best for that classic creamy texture. - 6Pour in the sauce
Distribute the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the arranged ingredients in the pot, then pour in the broth. Bring everything to a boil to combine the flavors.
Tip: Pour the broth gently to avoid displacing the carefully arranged ingredients.
