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.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Korean

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Stew

1 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 Jjigae

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.
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

Notes

This 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.

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