How to Make Hearty and Spicy Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae) in 7 Steps

2024. 8. 27. 09:36카테고리 없음

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Budae Jjigae, also known as Korean Army Stew, is a rich, flavorful hot pot dish that combines a variety of ingredients, including meats, vegetables, and instant noodles, all simmered together in a spicy broth. This dish has its origins in the post-Korean War era, when surplus foods from U.S. military bases, such as sausages and canned beans, were mixed with traditional Korean flavors to create a hearty and filling stew. Today, Budae Jjigae is a beloved dish enjoyed for its bold flavors and the comforting, communal experience of sharing a hot pot with friends and family.

Introduction to Budae Jjigae

Budae Jjigae is a fusion of Korean and Western ingredients, making it a unique and flavorful dish that has become a staple in Korean cuisine. The stew is typically made with a base of gochujang (Korean red chili paste) and gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), which give it a deep, spicy flavor. Common ingredients include sausages, ham, spam, baked beans, and instant ramen, along with tofu, mushrooms, kimchi, and vegetables. The result is a hearty, savory stew with a balance of spicy, salty, and umami flavors that are sure to warm you up on a cold day.

Ingredients for Budae Jjigae (2-4 Servings)

To prepare Budae Jjigae for two to four people, you'll need the following ingredients:

  • Spam or canned ham: 100g, sliced
  • Sausages: 100g, sliced
  • Bacon or ham: 50g, chopped
  • Kimchi: 1 cup, chopped
  • Tofu: 100g, cubed
  • Mushrooms: 100g, sliced (shiitake, enoki, or button mushrooms)
  • Onion: 1, sliced
  • Green onions: 2 stalks, chopped
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Instant ramen noodles: 1 pack
  • Baked beans: 1/4 cup (optional)
  • Rice cakes (tteok): 100g (optional)
  • Water or broth: 4 cups

For the Sauce:

  • Gochujang (Korean red chili paste): 2 tbsp
  • Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes): 1 tbsp
  • Soy sauce: 2 tbsp
  • Sugar: 1 tsp
  • Sesame oil: 1 tsp
  • Black pepper: 1/2 tsp

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preparing all the ingredients. Slice the spam, sausages, and bacon into bite-sized pieces. Chop the kimchi, onion, green onions, and garlic. Slice the mushrooms and cube the tofu. If using rice cakes, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften.

Step 2: Arrange the Ingredients in a Pot

In a large, shallow pot, arrange the prepared meats, tofu, mushrooms, onions, and kimchi in sections around the pot. Place the ramen noodles in the center, and if using, add the rice cakes and baked beans around the edges.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and black pepper. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Add the Sauce and Broth

Pour the prepared sauce over the ingredients in the pot, spreading it evenly. Then, carefully pour in the water or broth, making sure it covers most of the ingredients. You can adjust the amount of broth based on how soupy you want your Budae Jjigae.

Step 5: Simmer the Stew

Place the pot on the stove over medium-high heat. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, and the ingredients to cook through.

Step 6: Add the Ramen Noodles

Once the stew has simmered and the flavors are well developed, add the instant ramen noodles to the pot. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the noodles are soft and have absorbed the flavors of the broth. Stir gently to mix the ingredients.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish the Budae Jjigae with chopped green onions and serve it directly from the pot, family-style. Enjoy the stew while it's hot, and be sure to have a side of steamed rice to soak up the delicious broth. Budae Jjigae is best enjoyed with friends or family, as the communal nature of the dish makes it a fun and satisfying meal to share.

Tips for Perfect Budae Jjigae

  1. Customize the Ingredients: Budae Jjigae is a versatile dish, so feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preference. Common additions include cheese, dumplings, or even seafood.
  2. Balance the Spice: Adjust the amount of gochujang and gochugaru to control the heat level. Add more sugar or sesame oil if you prefer a milder flavor.
  3. Use Broth for Extra Flavor: For a richer broth, use beef or chicken broth instead of water. This adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of the stew.

Conclusion

Budae Jjigae is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines the best of Korean and Western ingredients into a satisfying, communal meal. With its bold, spicy broth and mix of meats, vegetables, and noodles, it’s a dish that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. By following these seven steps, you can create a delicious pot of Budae Jjigae at home, bringing the warmth and comfort of Korean cuisine to your table.

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