Name: Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 4 cups chicken or anchovy broth; 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red chili paste); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), optional; 1 teaspoon sugar; 100g Spam, sliced; 2 hot dogs, sliced diagonally; ½ cup kimchi, chopped; ½ cup enoki or button mushrooms; ½ cup firm tofu, sliced; ½ cup baked beans; ½ onion, thinly sliced; 1 green onion, chopped; 1 pack instant ramen noodles; 1 slice American cheese; Cooked rice, for serving (optional)

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Korean Army Stew, also known as Budae Jjigae, is a rich, spicy hot pot packed with assorted ingredients like sausages, tofu, instant noodles, kimchi, and vegetables. Originating after the Korean War, this fusion dish combines American processed foods with traditional Korean flavors, making it bold, comforting, and uniquely satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Filling: Loaded with proteins, carbs, and vegetables for a complete one-pot meal.
Customizable: Easily adaptable based on your favorite ingredients.
Social Meal: Great for sharing with family or friends at the table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Kimchi (fermented and chopped)
Spam or luncheon meat
Sausages or hot dogs, sliced
Tofu, sliced
Instant ramen noodles
Rice cakes (tteokbokki style)
Enoki mushrooms
Napa cabbage
Green onions
Garlic, minced
Baked beans (optional)
American cheese slices (optional)
Water or anchovy-kelp broth

For the Spicy Broth Sauce:

Gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
Gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
Soy sauce
Sugar
Sesame oil
Black pepper

Directions

Prepare the Broth Base:
In a bowl, mix gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and black pepper to form the sauce.
Assemble Ingredients in Pot:
Neatly arrange all solid ingredients—kimchi, meats, tofu, mushrooms, vegetables, and rice cakes—in a wide, shallow pot.
Add Broth and Sauce:
Pour the anchovy-kelp broth or water into the pot, just enough to cover the ingredients. Spoon the spicy sauce evenly on top.
Simmer:
Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10–15 minutes until ingredients are cooked through.
Add Noodles and Cheese:
Add ramen noodles and cheese slices (if using) and simmer until noodles are soft and cheese is melted.
Serve Hot:
Serve directly from the pot with rice or enjoy as is.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Seafood Version: Add shrimp, mussels, or squid for a seafood twist.
Vegetarian Option: Use tofu, mushrooms, and plant-based sausages with vegetable broth.
Extra Heat: Add sliced fresh chilies or extra gochugaru for more spiciness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a pot over medium heat until hot, adding a bit of broth or water if necessary.

FAQs

What does Budae Jjigae mean?

“Budae” means “military base” and “Jjigae” means stew. It originated from post-war U.S. military surplus supplies mixed with Korean ingredients.

Is Budae Jjigae very spicy?

It can be moderately to very spicy depending on the amount of gochujang and gochugaru used.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep and refrigerate the ingredients in the pot, then cook when ready to serve.

What kind of sausages should I use?

Korean-style sausages, hot dogs, or even bratwursts work well.

Can I omit the cheese?

Yes, cheese is optional but adds a creamy element that balances the spice.

Can I use packaged broth?

Yes, chicken or vegetable broth works if anchovy-kelp broth is unavailable.

How do I eat Budae Jjigae?

It’s eaten communally, often straight from the simmering pot. Scoop portions into bowls with rice.

Why are baked beans added?

They reflect the dish’s American influence and add a sweet-savory flavor.

Is it necessary to use kimchi?

Kimchi adds essential acidity and flavor, but the stew can still be made without it.

Can I use gluten-free noodles?

Yes, just ensure they’re added at the appropriate time for correct doneness.

Conclusion

Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae) is a flavorful, bold, and comforting dish that brings people together around the table. Whether you stick to the traditional ingredients or customize it to your preference, this stew offers a unique culinary experience with every bite. Ideal for sharing and savoring, it’s a must-try for fans of spicy and hearty meals.

Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae)

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Korean Army Stew, or Budae Jjigae, is a hearty and spicy hot pot dish combining Korean flavors with American-style processed meats, ramen, tofu, and vegetables. It’s a comforting, communal meal perfect for sharing.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: Korean
Diet: Halal

Instructions

In a large shallow pot, combine broth, gochujang, soy sauce, gochugaru, and sugar. Stir to dissolve.
Arrange Spam, hot dogs, kimchi, mushrooms, tofu, baked beans, onion, and green onion neatly around the pot.
Place ramen noodles and American cheese on top.
Bring the stew to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until ingredients are cooked through and noodles are soft.
Stir gently to combine flavors. Serve hot with rice if desired.