Spicy Spam and Tofu Stew (Jjigae)
Spicy Spam and Tofu Stew (Jjigae)
Hearty and Flavorful Spam and Tofu Stew Recipe
We’ve simmered a savory and spicy stew using SPAM and soft tofu. A touch of salted shrimp (saeujeot) adds a clean, umami depth to the broth. This dish is perfect for spooning over rice, making it a satisfying meal.
Main Ingredients- 1 block firm tofu
- 1 can SPAM (340g)
Seasoning Ingredients & Vegetables- 2 Tbsp cooking wine or soju
- 1/2 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp salted shrimp (saeujeot), minced
- 1/2 Tbsp doenjang (fermented soybean paste)
- 1 Tbsp gochujang (red chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp gochugaru (red chili flakes)
- 1/2 stalk green onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 onion, thickly sliced
- 2 Korean green chilies (or regular green chilies), finely chopped
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 3 cups broth (approx. 600ml)
- 2 Tbsp cooking wine or soju
- 1/2 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp salted shrimp (saeujeot), minced
- 1/2 Tbsp doenjang (fermented soybean paste)
- 1 Tbsp gochujang (red chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp gochugaru (red chili flakes)
- 1/2 stalk green onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 onion, thickly sliced
- 2 Korean green chilies (or regular green chilies), finely chopped
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 3 cups broth (approx. 600ml)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the flavorful seasoning paste that will make this Spam and Tofu Stew so delicious. In a medium bowl, combine 2 Tbsp of cooking wine or soju, 1/2 Tbsp sugar, 1 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 Tbsp minced salted shrimp (saeujeot), 1/2 Tbsp doenjang, 1 Tbsp gochujang, and 2 Tbsp gochugaru. Stir well with a spoon until the sugar and doenjang are fully dissolved and the paste is smooth and lump-free. The salted shrimp adds a wonderful umami boost.
Step 2
Next, prepare the vegetables that will add aroma and texture to the stew. Thinly slice 1/2 green onion. Thickly slice 1/2 onion. If you like it spicy, finely chop 2 Korean green chilies. Having your vegetables prepped beforehand will make the cooking process much smoother.
Step 3
Now, let’s cut the main ingredients, tofu and SPAM, into bite-sized pieces. Cut 1 block of firm tofu into large cubes or half-moon shapes. Also, cut 1 can (340g) of SPAM into pieces roughly the same size as the tofu. Since SPAM shrinks a bit when cooked, you can cut it slightly larger if you prefer.
Step 4
Get a wide pot or wok ready. Arrange the sliced SPAM and tofu attractively in the pot. Then, sprinkle 1 Tbsp of minced garlic evenly over the top. Layering the ingredients like this not only looks nice but also ensures even cooking.
Step 5
It’s time to add the prepared seasoning paste to the pot. However, it’s important not to add all the seasoning at once. Taste as you go and adjust the amount, keeping in mind that SPAM is already quite salty. Adding too much seasoning could make the broth overly salty. If needed, you can add more broth to adjust the seasoning.
Step 6
Now, let’s pour in the broth for the stew. Add 3 cups (approximately 600ml) of broth, which can be made from ingredients like anchovies, kelp, shiitake mushrooms, and dried pollack. If you don’t have homemade broth, using store-bought anchovy-kelp broth or rice water will also yield a delicious result. Bring it to a boil over high heat.
Step 7
Once the broth starts boiling vigorously, add all the prepared vegetables: sliced green onion, onion, and chopped chilies. Let it come to a boil again, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for about 5-7 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Your delicious Spam and Tofu Stew is now ready! It’s especially tasty when the broth has slightly reduced.
