Classic Budae Jjigae: The Golden Recipe for a Rich and Clean Stew
Classic Budae Jjigae: The Golden Recipe for a Rich and Clean Stew
Make the Best Budae Jjigae at Home! A Delicious Recipe Using Canned Ham and Sausages
Let’s make a fantastic Budae Jjigae (Korean Army Stew) using canned ham and sausages you have on hand. This recipe delivers the best flavor with a clean and rich broth.
Ingredients- 1 can of Spam or your favorite canned ham (small size)
- 3 frankfurters or Vienna sausages
- 1/2 onion
- 1 cup kimchi
- 1 packet of instant ramen noodles
- A handful of bean sprouts
- 1/2 block of firm tofu
- 1/2 cup rice cake slices (tteokguk tteok)
- 3 tablespoons baked beans
- 1 slice of processed cheese
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the base broth that will give our Budae Jjigae its depth of flavor. I personally prefer anchovy broth for a cleaner and more refreshing taste. However, if you don’t have anchovy broth, you can use store-bought beef bone broth (sagol yuksu) or even rice water for a good base.
Step 2
While the broth is simmering, let’s make the seasoning paste that will elevate the stew’s taste. Combine 1 tablespoon of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 1/2 tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste), 1 tablespoon of soup soy sauce (or regular soy sauce if unavailable), and a pinch of black pepper and salt. Add 1 tablespoon of the prepared broth and mix well. Letting the seasoning paste sit for a while allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3
Allow the seasoning paste to meld while you prepare the other ingredients. Slice the canned ham and sausages into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the onion. Chop the kimchi into manageable pieces. Cube the tofu.
Step 4
Now, let’s arrange all the prepared ingredients in your pot. If using a shallow Korean hot pot (jeongol-pan), that’s ideal, but any pot will do – the taste is what matters! Arrange the ingredients in a visually appealing way, perhaps circling the ingredients around the pot: start with a layer of sliced onions at the bottom, then add the ham, sausages, kimchi, tofu, rice cake slices, bean sprouts, and finally, the baked beans.
Step 5
Once all the ingredients are artfully arranged, pour the prepared broth over them. Make sure there’s enough broth to cover most of the ingredients. Bring the pot to a rolling boil over high heat.
Step 6
As soon as the stew begins to boil, stir in the prepared seasoning paste, ensuring it’s well distributed. Once the seasoning is dissolved, add the instant ramen noodles and top with the slice of processed cheese. The melting cheese adds a wonderful creaminess to the broth.
Step 7
Let the stew simmer until the ramen noodles are cooked and all the ingredients are heated through and well combined. Once it’s bubbling nicely, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for a few more minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Step 8
Wow, this Budae Jjigae is incredibly delicious! It’s almost unfair how good it tastes! This incredibly easy and satisfying Budae Jjigae is perfect for anyone to try. Dive in and enjoy!
