If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to taste the comfort of home while simultaneously experiencing the rich history and culture of Korea, then the Korean Army Soup (or Budae Jjigae) might just be what you’re looking for. This dish isn’t just about flavor-it’s a testament to how food can bring people together, tell stories, and evolve over time.
Originally born out of necessity during the Korean War, Budae Jjigae (literally "army stew") has transformed into a beloved comfort food. After the war, the scarcity of ingredients led people to creatively use surplus foods like Spam, hot dogs, and baked beans, all of which were introduced by American soldiers stationed in Korea. Today, it’s a popular dish that bridges traditional Korean flavors with Western influences, making it a truly unique, heartwarming experience.
What makes this soup special? It’s not just about throwing ingredients together. The magic lies in the fusion of salty, spicy, and savory notes, making every spoonful an adventure. You can adjust the heat to your preference, the saltiness to your liking, and even go wild with your ingredient choices.
So, if you’re in the mood for something bold, hearty, and deeply satisfying, let’s dive into a Korean Army Soup Recipe that you can easily recreate at home!
Korean Army Soup Recipe
Here’s how to make your very own bowl of Budae Jjigae, packed with savory flavors, and just the right amount of heat. Whether you’re cooking for one or sharing with friends and family, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients Needed
To get that perfect balance of spicy, savory, and umami, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of Beef Broth (or vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter base)
- 1 cup of Water
- 1 pack of Instant Ramen noodles (traditionally, the noodles are the quick kind that cooks quickly and adds to the richness of the broth)
- 1 can of Spam (cut into cubes – this is essential for authenticity, but if you prefer, you can swap it for tofu or sausages)
- 2 hot dog sausages (sliced into rounds)
- 1 can of Baked Beans (the kind in tomato sauce)
- 1/2 cup of Kimchi (for that signature fermented tang)
- 1/2 medium Onion (sliced)
- 2-3 cloves of Garlic (minced)
- 1-2 tbsp of gochujang (Korean red pepper paste – this is where the heat comes from)
- 1 tbsp of gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes for an extra kick)
- 1-2 tbsp of soy sauce
- 1 tbsp of sesame oil (for a nutty finish)
- Handful of spinach or bok choy (for some greens and freshness)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
- 1-2 tbsp of Korean chili paste or kimchi juice (for a tangy, spicy kick)
- Optional: 1/4 cup of mushrooms (shiitake mushrooms work great if you want to add depth to the flavor)
- 1 tbsp of sugar (optional, but it balances the heat and acidity)
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Budae Jjigae. It’s simple and doesn’t require too much prep time, but you’ll need a big pot to bring everything together!
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Prep Your Ingredients
- Cut the Spam and sausages into bite-sized cubes or slices.
- Slice your onion thinly and mince the garlic.
- If you’re using mushrooms, slice them too. Chop the greens and green onions.
- If you’re using kimchi, be sure to cut it into smaller pieces.
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Heat The Broth And Water
- In a large pot, combine your beef broth and water. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir everything well to create a rich, spicy base. Let this simmer for 5-10 minutes so all the flavors meld.
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Add The Meats
- Once the broth is fragrant, add your Spam cubes, hot dog slices, and any other protein you’re using. Let it cook for another 5-7 minutes.
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Add Vegetables And Beans
- Now, toss in your onions, garlic, kimchi, baked beans, and mushrooms (if using). Stir everything well, making sure the beans get incorporated into the broth. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
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Noodles And Final Touches
- Add the instant ramen noodles (without the seasoning packet). Gently stir to prevent them from sticking, and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
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Finishing Touches
- Taste the soup, and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you want more heat, add more gochujang or chili paste. If it’s too salty, add a bit of water or more broth.
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Garnish And Serve
- Once everything is cooked, sprinkle your green onions over the top and serve immediately.
Ingredient Insights
Let’s break down why certain ingredients are key to making this soup a comfort food masterpiece:
- Spam: Spam’s salty, meaty flavor adds a nostalgic depth to the stew, and it’s the heart of the dish. Though it might seem unconventional, Spam was a life-saver during the Korean War, and it gives Budae Jjigae its signature umami flavor.
- Kimchi: This fermented vegetable side dish isn’t just for eating on its own; it adds tang, spice, and a little funk to balance out the rich, savory ingredients. It’s a true flavor bomb!
- Instant ramen noodles: These noodles provide a quick, comforting carb base for the stew. The noodles soak up all the broth’s flavors, making every bite even better.
- Gojiang & gochugaru: These two ingredients bring heat and depth to the dish. The paste adds a thick, rich spice, while the flakes offer a sharp, bright heat.
Expert Tips
To elevate your Budae Jjigae even further, here are some tips from seasoned chefs and home cooks:
- Adjust the spice: You can control how spicy your soup gets by adjusting the amount of gochujang (red pepper paste) and gochugaru (red pepper flakes). If you’re sensitive to heat, start small and gradually add more.
- Use quality broth: While any broth will do, using homemade beef or vegetable broth can really take your soup to the next level. If you’re in a rush, store-bought broth will work fine.
- Layer your flavors: Don’t rush! Let each ingredient cook a little longer to infuse the soup with deep, rich flavor. Patience is key here.
- Top with cheese: This might sound unconventional, but adding a slice of cheese (especially mozzarella) on top of your soup right before serving can make it wonderfully creamy and melt into the broth. Try it!
Recipe Variations
While the classic Budae Jjigae is hard to beat, there are a ton of variations to keep it fresh and exciting:
- Vegetarian version: Skip the Spam and sausages, and load up on tofu, mushrooms, and more veggies. You can even use plant-based hot dogs or tempeh for a more sustainable twist.
- Seafood twist: Throw in some shrimp, clams, or fish cakes for a seafood-based Budae Jjigae. This will give the soup a different depth of flavor while keeping it traditional.
- Spicy cheese Budae Jjigae: Add a cheesy twist with a generous helping of shredded mozzarella on top. This creamy addition helps balance the heat while adding a comforting texture.
Final Words
There’s something truly comforting about a big pot of Budae Jjigae. The fusion of flavors-from spicy and salty to tangy and savory-makes every spoonful an adventure. Whether you’re making it to relive a bit of history, or just to treat yourself to a hearty meal, this dish is a game-changer.
FAQs
What Is Korean Army Soup (Budae Jjigae)?
Korean Army Soup, or Budae Jjigae, is a popular Korean dish that originated after the Korean War. It combines a variety of ingredients like processed meats (spam, hot dogs), tofu, vegetables, and noodles, all simmered in a spicy, savory broth. The dish symbolizes resourcefulness, as it made use of U.S. army surplus foods during the war.
What Are The Key Ingredients In A Korean Army Soup Recipe?
The key ingredients in Budae Jjigae include spam, hot dogs, tofu, kimchi, gochujang (Korean chili paste), gochugaru (chili flakes), garlic, onions, mushrooms, ramen noodles, and sometimes baked beans. The soup is flavored with soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar, providing a rich and spicy broth.
How Do You Make The Broth For Korean Army Soup?
The broth for Budae Jjigae is typically made by combining water or beef stock with gochujang (Korean chili paste), gochugaru (chili flakes), soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and sometimes a pinch of sugar. The ingredients are simmered together until the broth becomes rich and flavorful.
Can I Substitute Spam And Hot Dogs In The Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute spam and hot dogs with other protein sources such as cooked ground beef, sausage, or even chicken. However, traditional Budae Jjigae uses these processed meats for their salty, umami flavor and texture.
What Kind Of Noodles Are Used In Korean Army Soup?
Ramen noodles are typically used in Budae Jjigae. These instant noodles absorb the flavors of the soup and add a comforting, chewy texture. You can use other types of noodles if you prefer, but ramen is the classic choice.
Is Budae Jjigae Spicy?
Yes, Budae Jjigae is generally spicy, as it includes gochujang (Korean chili paste) and gochugaru (chili flakes). However, the level of spice can be adjusted to your preference by controlling the amount of gochujang and chili flakes you add.
Can I Make Korean Army Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Budae Jjigae by replacing the processed meats with plant-based alternatives such as tofu, mushrooms, or mock meat. Ensure you use vegetable stock instead of beef stock for the broth.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Korean Army Soup?
Korean Army Soup is relatively quick to make. The cooking time is typically around 30-40 minutes, depending on the ingredients and how long you let the flavors meld. The soup simmers until the meats and vegetables are cooked through and the flavors have blended.
What Are The Best Side Dishes To Serve With Korean Army Soup?
Korean Army Soup is often served with traditional Korean side dishes (banchan) such as kimchi, pickled vegetables, steamed rice, and a variety of small vegetable dishes. These help balance the richness and spice of the soup.
Can I Store Leftovers Of Korean Army Soup?
Yes, you can store leftovers of Budae Jjigae in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The soup can also be reheated on the stove or in the microwave. However, the noodles may become softer and absorb more liquid as they sit in the broth.