Name: Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae) - Cook With Dana
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 300g of instant ramen noodles (or other preferred noodles); 200g of sliced ham or luncheon meat; 150g of sauerkraut or kimchi; 1 small onion, sliced; 2 green onions, chopped; 2 cups of beef broth or chicken broth; 1 tbsp of gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1 tbsp of soy sauce; 1 tsp of minced garlic; 1/2 tsp of sugar; Optional: spam, hot dogs, sliced cheese, rice cakes (tteok), baked beans

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Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae) – Cook With Dana 🍲🔥🇰🇷

1. Introduction to Authentic Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae)

Craving a hearty and flavorful comfort dish that embodies the soul of Korean cuisine? Look no further than Korean Army Stew, also known as Budae Jjigae. This iconic soju-fueled dish has a rich history rooted in Korean wartime ingenuity, blending traditional ingredients with American canned foods to create a beloved Korean comfort food that is both satisfying and nostalgic. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, Korean Army Stew combines savory meats, spicy flavors, and various vegetables in a bubbling hot pot. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or new to Korean cuisine, this step-by-step guide will help you craft an authentic Budae Jjigae that rivals restaurant-quality versions, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.

2. Ingredients Needed for Delicious Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae)

300g of instant ramen noodles (or other preferred noodles)
200g of sliced ham or luncheon meat
150g of kimchi or sauerkraut for the authentic tang
1 small onion, sliced
2 green onions, chopped
2 cups of beef broth or chicken broth
1 tbsp of gochujang (Korean chili paste) for spice and depth
1 tbsp of soy sauce for umami richness
1 tsp of minced garlic for aroma
1/2 tsp of sugar to balance flavors
Optional ingredients: spam, hot dogs, sliced cheese, rice cakes (tteok), baked beans for added texture and flavor

3. How to Cook Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae) Step-by-Step

3.1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by slicing ham, onions, and green onions. Measure out your broth, gochujang, soy sauce, and other flavorings. For an authentic taste, prepare rice cakes and canned baked beans beforehand, which will add traditional texture and sweetness.

3.2. Make the Flavorful Base

In a large pot or traditional Korean hot pot, combine beef or chicken broth with gochujang, soy sauce, minced garlic, and sugar. Stir thoroughly until the chili paste dissolves completely. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, creating a rich, spicy broth that forms the foundation of your Korean Army Stew.

3.3. Add Proteins and Vegetables

Add sliced ham, luncheon meat, kimchi or sauerkraut, and sliced onions to the boiling broth. Layer these ingredients to maximize flavor infusion. If you’re including rice cakes or baked beans, add them now for extra heartiness and traditional texture.

3.4. Simmer and Develop Flavors

Reduce the heat to medium-low and let everything simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your Korean Army Stew rich, savory, and deeply satisfying, reminiscent of what you’d find in a cozy Korean eatery.

3.5. Add Instant Noodles

Finally, add your preferred ramen or other noodles to the stew. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the noodles are tender and have absorbed the delicious broth. For a cheesy twist, top with slices of cheese during the last minute of cooking.

3.6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top and serve hot straight from the pot. Authentic Korean Army Stew is best enjoyed bubbling and steaming, paired with steamed rice or crispy Korean pancakes (jeon). Encourage everyone to dig in and savor this iconic Korean comfort food that’s perfect for cold days or casual gatherings.

4. How to Store Leftovers of Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae)

If you have leftovers, allow the stew to cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so thoroughly over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to revive the rich flavor. For the best taste, enjoy leftovers quickly, as this dish is best when fresh and hot from the stove.

5. Serving Suggestions for Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae)

This Korean comfort food pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice, crispy Korean pancakes, or a variety of banchan such as kimchi and pickled vegetables. Serving directly from the hot pot at the table keeps the stew warm and encourages communal eating. For an extra flavor boost, try pairing it with cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage or easy blueberry bars for a sweet contrast to the spicy stew.

6. Tips to Perfect Your Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae)

Utilize a variety of meats such as spam, hot dogs, or sausages for complexity.
Adjust the spice level with extra gochujang or additional chili flakes based on your heat preference.
Add noodles of your choice to make the dish more filling and satisfying.
Experiment with cheese toppings for creamy richness, which is a popular variation in modern recipes.

7. FAQs About Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae)

Q1: What is the origin of Korean Army Stew?

Korean Army Stew, or Budae Jjigae, was created during the Korean War when resourceful cooks combined canned foods supplied by the U.S. military with local Korean ingredients. This inventive dish grew in popularity, symbolizing resilience and adaptability, and has become a staple in Korean comfort food cuisine.

Q2: Is Korean Army Stew spicy?

The spiciness depends on the amount of gochujang and chili ingredients used. You can customize it by adjusting the chili paste to make it as mild or as hot as you prefer.

Q3: Can I make a vegetarian version of Korean Army Stew?

Absolutely! Omit the meats, and replace them with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, tofu, or extra kimchi. Use vegetable broth instead of meat-based broths for a flavorful vegetarian Mediterranean chicken bowl-style twist.

8. Final Tips for the Best-Ever Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae)

Achieving the authentic taste involves balancing savory, spicy, and umami flavors. Use fresh ingredients, adjust the spice level to your liking, and serve steaming hot for maximum enjoyment. This adaptable dish can be customized with your favorite ingredients for a personalized Korean comfort food experience.

9. Conclusion

In conclusion, Korean Army Stew, or Budae Jjigae, exemplifies Korean comfort food at its best, deliciously combining bold flavors with hearty ingredients. Whether cooking for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or a special occasion, this rich, soul-warming stew will impress everyone at the table. Try making this authentic Korean Army Stew recipe today, and enjoy a taste of Korea’s resilient culinary tradition from your own home kitchen!

Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae) – Cook With Dana