Budae Jjigae (Korean Army Stew)

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Budae Jjigae (Korean Army Stew)

Budae Jjigae, affectionately known as Army Stew, is a hearty and comforting Korean dish that originated in the aftermath of the Korean War. This delicious stew is a fusion of traditional Korean ingredients and American military rations, including spam and sausages. It embodies a delightful mix of flavors and textures, featuring spicy gochujang, savory soy sauce, and the tang of kimchi, all simmered together to create a dish that warms the soul. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, Budae Jjigae is a must-try for anyone looking to explore Korean cuisine.

Servings: 4

Ingredients

Water
4 cups
Sesame oil
1 tablespoon
Sugar
1 teaspoon
Soy sauce
2 tablespoons
Gochujang (Korean red pepper paste)
2 tablespoons
Garlic
4 cloves, minced
Green onions
4, chopped
Onion
1 large, sliced
Tofu
1 block, cut into cubes
Kimchi
1 cup, chopped
Instant ramen noodles
2 packs
Sausages
2, sliced
Spam
1 can, sliced

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced spam and sausages to the pot, cooking until lightly browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, sliced onion, and chopped kimchi. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
  4. In a small bowl, combine the gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, and a splash of the water. Mix well and add this mixture to the pot, stirring to coat the ingredients evenly.
  5. Pour in the remaining water and bring the stew to a boil.
  6. Once boiling, add the instant ramen noodles and tofu cubes. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the noodles are tender and the tofu is heated through.
  7. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
  8. Serve hot and enjoy with a side of rice or additional kimchi for an authentic experience.

Dietary Information

Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 15 minutes • Cook Time: 20 minutes • Calories: 450 • Fat: 25g • Carbs: 35g • Protein: 22g • Sodium: 1200mg • Sugar: 4g