Ultimate Ssamjang Recipe: Easy Homemade Korean Dipping Sauce
Ultimate Ssamjang Recipe: Easy Homemade Korean Dipping Sauce
How to Make Delicious Ssamjang at Home
The indispensable companion for any Korean barbecue! This recipe shows you how to make a flavorful ssamjang that is both spicy and has a satisfying texture. Enjoy a feast with fresh vegetables and this homemade dipping sauce. Perfect for beginners!
Ssamjang Ingredients- 1 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean fermented soybean paste) – for a deep, savory base
- 1 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste) – for spicy kick and richness
- 1/2 Tbsp Maple Syrup – for a touch of sweetness and gloss (can substitute with sugar or corn syrup)
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil – for nutty aroma and flavor enhancement
- 1/4 Onion – finely minced, adds crunch and subtle sweetness
- 2 Cheongyang Peppers (or other hot peppers) – finely minced, adjust to your spice preference
- A pinch of Toasted Sesame Seeds – for garnish and extra nuttiness
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
In a medium bowl, start by adding 1 tablespoon of Doenjang. This fermented soybean paste forms the foundational savory flavor of your ssamjang.
Step 2
Next, add 1 tablespoon of Gochujang on top of the Doenjang. This chili paste brings the signature spicy and rich notes. A 1:1 ratio of Doenjang to Gochujang is standard, but feel free to adjust to your taste.
Step 3
Stir in 1/2 tablespoon of Maple Syrup. This adds a subtle sweetness and a beautiful sheen to the ssamjang. If you don’t have maple syrup, regular sugar, honey, or corn syrup can be used – adjust the amount based on their sweetness.
Step 4
Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of Sesame Oil. This is crucial for adding that wonderful nutty aroma and depth of flavor that makes ssamjang so irresistible.
Step 5
Prepare the vegetables: Finely mince 1/4 of an onion. The smaller the pieces, the smoother the texture of your ssamjang and the more evenly the flavors will distribute.
Step 6
For a spicy kick, finely mince 2 Cheongyang peppers. These are quite hot, so if you prefer milder, use fewer peppers or substitute with a less spicy variety like green bell peppers. Remember to adjust based on your heat tolerance!
Step 7
Combine all the ingredients in the bowl. Using a spoon or spatula, mix everything thoroughly until well combined. Ensure there are no clumps of doenjang or gochujang; aim for a smooth, consistent paste.
Step 8
For the final touch, add a pinch of toasted sesame seeds. Crushing them slightly between your fingers before sprinkling them over the ssamjang will release even more of their nutty aroma and flavor.
Step 9
Congratulations! Your homemade ssamjang, packed with fresh ingredients and amazing flavor, is ready. It’s a perfect condiment that will make any meal feel special, especially with grilled meats.
Step 10
Serve this delicious ssamjang with freshly grilled pork belly or other meats, along with crisp lettuce wraps. The combination of savory, spicy, and fresh is a true Korean delight!
