On a chilly evening, nothing beats the cozy embrace of a warm stew simmering on the stove, and that’s where Budae Jjigae steps in. This One-Pot Korean Army Stew combines bold flavors, rich spices, and plenty of customizable ingredients to create a meal that’s both comforting and fun to make. Imagine a vibrant mix of umami-rich kimchi, savory spam, and tender ramen noodles swirling in a delectable broth. What I love most is that it’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights or a gathering with friends. Plus, you can easily switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Ready to dive into this hearty dish that’s sure to become a favorite? Let’s get cooking! Why is Budae Jjigae a Must-Try? Simplicity, this one-pot wonder allows anyone to whip up a delicious meal with ease. Bursting with Flavor from the harmonious blend of spices and ingredients, it’s a delight for your taste buds. Customizable Options mean you can adapt it to fit your pantry staples or dietary preferences effortlessly. Hearty Comfort makes for the ultimate cozy dish, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Plus, Quick to Prepare, this stew can be on the table in no time, making it ideal for those busy evenings. If you’re looking for more comforting meals, don’t miss our guide on one-pot wonders that will elevate your weeknight dinners! Budae Jjigae Ingredients • Dive into the delightful components of this Korean Army Stew! For the Stew Spam – Adds savory depth and protein; substitute with bacon or tofu for a vegetarian option. Sausages – Provides a smoky flavor; any type of cooked sausage works wonderfully here. Tofu – Introduces a soft texture and protein; firm tofu is preferred, but can be omitted for a meat-heavy dish. Rice Cakes – Brings a chewy texture and substance; replace with additional noodles if desired. Onion – Adds sweetness and layers of flavor; yellow or sweet onions are the best choices. Enoki Mushrooms – Contributes a delicate flavor and texture; can be swapped with shiitake or button mushrooms. Kimchi – Infuses spice and tanginess; adjust the amount based on your heat preference. Gochugaru (Korean Chili Flakes) – Provides both heat and color; red pepper flakes can be used in a pinch. Gochujang (Korean Chili Paste) – Adds depth and umami; adjust to taste for preferred spice levels. Soy Sauce – For added saltiness and flavor; tamari works as a gluten-free alternative. Mirin – Introduces sweetness; mix vinegar and sugar as a substitute if needed. Sugar – Balances flavors; omit for a lower-sugar option. Black Pepper – For seasoning; switch to white pepper for a different flavor profile. Chicken Broth – Serves as the stew’s base; vegetable broth is a suitable alternative for vegetarians. Ramen Noodles – Essential for texture and heartiness; any instant noodles can do the trick. Cheese – A creamy garnish; opt for mild cheeses like mozzarella, or omit for a dairy-free version. Green Onions – Adds a fresh crunch as a garnish; chives can be used if needed. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Budae Jjigae Step 1: Prepare the Sauce In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of gochugaru, and 2 tablespoons of gochujang. Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of mirin, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and a pinch of black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth sauce. Set this flavorful blend aside as it will enrich your Budae Jjigae. Step 2: Combine Ingredients Take a shallow pot and place it over medium heat. Layer in 1 cup of sliced spam, 1 cup of cooked sausage, and 1 cup of diced firm tofu. Next, add in 1 cup of rice cakes, 1 sliced onion, 1 cup of enoki mushrooms, and 1 cup of kimchi. This blend of ingredients creates a hearty base for your Budae Jjigae that’s visually inviting and full of flavor. Step 3: Add Broth and Sauce Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth over the layered ingredients in the pot. Then, evenly drizzle the prepared sauce over the top. Increase the heat and cover the pot, bringing the stew to a gentle boil. As it simmers, the aromas will fill your kitchen, signaling that your Budae Jjigae is on its way to perfection. Step 4: Add Noodles & Cheese Once the stew reaches a bubbling boil, carefully remove the lid and stir in 2 packs of ramen noodles. If you like cheese, sprinkle in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Cover the pot again and allow it to cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but still firm, soaking in all the spicy goodness of the broth. Step 5: Garnish & Serve After the noodles are cooked to your liking, remove the pot from the heat. Garnish your steaming pot of Budae Jjigae with freshly sliced green onions for a burst of freshness. Serve this comforting stew hot, ideally with a side of steamed rice to balance the robust flavors and create a delightful meal experience. How to Store and Freeze Budae Jjigae Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain the stew’s rich flavors while keeping it fresh. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Budae Jjigae in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if it appears thickened. Airtight Storage: Always ensure that containers are airtight to preserve the taste and prevent freezer odors from seeping in, so your Budae Jjigae can be as delicious as the first time. Make Ahead Options Budae Jjigae is an excellent choice for meal prep, making it easier for busy home cooks to enjoy this comforting dish! You can prep the flavorful sauce and chop the vegetables (like onion and mushrooms) up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Additionally, layer the proteins (spam, sausage, tofu) and kimchi in the pot without adding the broth or noodles, keeping it fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, stir in the ramen noodles and allow them to cook. This way, you’ll savor restaurant-quality Budae Jjigae with minimal fuss, perfect for weeknight dinners! What to Serve with One-Pot Budae Jjigae Warm up your meal experience with delightful sides and flavors that perfectly balance this hearty stew! Steamed Rice: A classic companion that absorbs the rich broth, making every spoonful a comforting delight. Pairing it with the stew creates a satisfying, wholesome meal. Kimchi: The tangy crunch of kimchi complements the Budae Jjigae’s savory tones, providing an extra kick. Serve alongside for an authentic Korean experience! Pickled Vegetables: A medley of pickles adds brightness and acidity that cuts through the stew’s richness; they’re like bursts of refreshing flavor with each bite. Spicy Cucumber Salad: A crunchy salad with a hint of spice brings a vibrant contrast, making for a well-rounded plate. The coolness will temper the stew’s heat while refreshing your palate. Gochujang Dipping Sauce: This sauce offers another layer of spice and umami, making it perfect for dipping fresh veggies or even adding a splash to your stew. Korean Fried Chicken: Crispy, tender fried chicken is a delightful contrast to the stew’s warmth. Their savory crunch adds a fun and satisfying element to the dining experience. Soju or Beer: A chilled glass of soju or your favorite light beer complements the spiciness of the Budae Jjigae, making it a perfect drink to unwind with. Mochi Ice Cream: End on a sweet note with mochi ice cream! Its creamy filling and chewy outer layer provide a delightful contrast to the hearty, spicy stew, creating a well-rounded meal experience. Budae Jjigae Variations & Substitutions Feel free to make this comforting stew uniquely yours with these delightful twists! Protein Swap: Replace spam or sausage with ground beef, turkey, or chicken for a hearty alternative. You can also go vegetarian by using textured soy protein or more tofu. Veggie Boost: Toss in extra greens like bok choy, spinach, or diced zucchini to elevate the nutrition and flavor. The added freshness will complement the rich broth beautifully. Noodle Options: Opt for udon or soba noodles instead of ramen for different textures; they’ll soak up all the savory goodness just as well! Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick. Cheese can be omitted for a lighter dish, as the stew is packed with flavor! Spiciness Control: Adjust the heat level by varying the amount of gochugaru and gochujang. Add a splash of sriracha or chili oil for those who crave more spice! Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari, and ensure your noodles are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy a delicious bowl without compromise. Flavor Depth: Enhance umami by adding a touch of miso paste or mushrooms like shiitake or portobello for a rich, earthy flavor profile. These ingredients enrich the overall heartiness of the stew. Should you want to explore more about one-pot meals, don’t miss our collection of easy weeknight dinners to round out your culinary repertoire! Expert Tips for Budae Jjigae Maintain the Heat: Make sure the stew is bubbling before adding the noodles; this ensures they cook properly and absorb all the flavors. Taste Test: Before adding extra salt, taste the broth first; spam and soy sauce provide ample sodium, which might be enough. Simmer Wisely: Let the stew simmer longer to deepen flavors before adding the noodles, resulting in a more complex and satisfying Budae Jjigae. Customize Ingredients: Feel free to switch up proteins and vegetables based on your preferences; this dish is all about personalization! Prevent Overcooking: Stir in the cheese at the end and let it melt briefly; avoid adding it too early to maintain a lovely creamy texture. Budae Jjigae Recipe FAQs What type of kimchi should I use for Budae Jjigae? Absolutely, using good-quality kimchi is essential! You can opt for store-bought or homemade, and I recommend using napa cabbage kimchi for its balanced spice and tanginess. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your personal heat preference—more for a spicier kick, less if you enjoy a milder flavor. How long can I store leftovers of Budae Jjigae? Very! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help keep the flavors vibrant while ensuring the dish’s integrity remains intact. Just make sure to reheat it gently on the stove for best results. Can I freeze Budae Jjigae? Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze Budae Jjigae in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To do this, let it cool completely before sealing it to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove until warmed through. What are some troubleshooting tips if my Budae Jjigae is too salty? If you find your Budae Jjigae too salty, don’t worry—there are ways to balance it! You can add more broth or water to dilute the saltiness, which will give it a slightly different texture but remain delightful. Additionally, adding more vegetables like carrots or zucchini can help absorb some of the salty flavor, giving a delicious twist. Can I make Budae Jjigae vegetarian or vegan? Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, you can substitute spam with tofu or a plant-based savory meat alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For vegans, just skip the cheese garnish or replace it with a suitable vegan cheese. Feel free to load up on veggies for added nutrients—you can’t go wrong with customizing! Is Budae Jjigae safe for my pets? No, Budae Jjigae is not suitable for pets, particularly due to the spices and sodium levels present in the dish. Ingredients like garlic and certain seasonings can be harmful to pets. Always check with your veterinarian when in doubt about what’s safe for your furry friends. Savor the Comfort of Budae Jjigae: Your One-Pot Stew Delight Budae Jjigae is a comforting one-pot Korean Army Stew filled with bold flavors and customizable ingredients. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: KoreanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Stew1 cup Spam Adds savory depth and protein; substitute with bacon or tofu for a vegetarian option.1 cup Sausages Provides a smoky flavor; any type of cooked sausage works wonderfully here.1 cup Firm Tofu Introduces a soft texture and protein; can be omitted for a meat-heavy dish.1 cup Rice Cakes Brings a chewy texture and substance; replace with additional noodles if desired.1 Onion Adds sweetness and layers of flavor; yellow or sweet onions are the best choices.1 cup Enoki Mushrooms Contributes a delicate flavor and texture; can be swapped with shiitake or button mushrooms.1 cup Kimchi Infuses spice and tanginess; adjust the amount based on your heat preference.2 tablespoons Gochugaru (Korean Chili Flakes) Provides both heat and color; red pepper flakes can be used in a pinch.2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean Chili Paste) Adds depth and umami; adjust to taste for preferred spice levels.2 tablespoons Soy Sauce For added saltiness and flavor; tamari works as a gluten-free alternative.2 tablespoons Mirin Introduces sweetness; mix vinegar and sugar as a substitute if needed.1 teaspoon Sugar Balances flavors; omit for a lower-sugar option.1 pinch Black Pepper For seasoning; switch to white pepper for a different flavor profile.4 cups Chicken Broth Serves as the stew’s base; vegetable broth is a suitable alternative for vegetarians.2 packs Ramen Noodles Essential for texture and heartiness; any instant noodles can do the trick.1 cup Shredded Mozzarella A creamy garnish; opt for mild cheeses, or omit for a dairy-free version.1 Green Onions Adds a fresh crunch as a garnish; chives can be used if needed. Equipment shallow pot Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Budae JjigaeIn a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of gochugaru, and 2 tablespoons of gochujang. Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of mirin, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and a pinch of black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth sauce. Set this flavorful blend aside as it will enrich your Budae Jjigae.Take a shallow pot and place it over medium heat. Layer in 1 cup of sliced spam, 1 cup of cooked sausage, and 1 cup of diced firm tofu. Next, add in 1 cup of rice cakes, 1 sliced onion, 1 cup of enoki mushrooms, and 1 cup of kimchi. This blend of ingredients creates a hearty base for your Budae Jjigae that’s visually inviting and full of flavor.Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth over the layered ingredients in the pot. Then, evenly drizzle the prepared sauce over the top. Increase the heat and cover the pot, bringing the stew to a gentle boil.Once the stew reaches a bubbling boil, carefully remove the lid and stir in 2 packs of ramen noodles. If you like cheese, sprinkle in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Cover the pot again and allow it to cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but still firm.After the noodles are cooked to your liking, remove the pot from the heat. Garnish your steaming pot of Budae Jjigae with freshly sliced green onions for a burst of freshness. Serve this comforting stew hot, ideally with a side of steamed rice. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 1200mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg NotesThis stew is customizable based on your preferences. Ensure the stew is bubbling before adding the noodles for optimal cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
