Few dishes represent modern Korean comfort food quite like Budae Jjigae, better known as Korean Army Stew. Created after the Korean War using ingredients from military surplus bases, this iconic stew has evolved into one of Korea's most beloved meals. Loaded with kimchi, ramen noodles, tofu, mushrooms, sausages, Spam®, vegetables, and a bold spicy broth, every bite is packed with incredible flavor.

Served bubbling hot in the center of the table, Budae Jjigae is designed for sharing, making it the perfect meal for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Why You'll Love It

Rich, spicy, umami-packed broth
Perfect one-pot meal
Ready in under an hour
Highly customizable
Great for sharing
Authentic Korean flavors
Restaurant-quality at home
Excellent cold-weather comfort food

About the Recipe

Budae Jjigae literally translates to "Army Base Stew." It originated during the 1950s when Korean families creatively combined local ingredients like kimchi and gochujang with foods available from U.S. military bases, such as Spam, hot dogs, baked beans, and processed cheese.

Today, it's a staple in Korean restaurants and homes alike. Modern versions often include ramen noodles, tofu, mushrooms, rice cakes, and vegetables, creating a hearty and flavorful communal meal.

Recipe Information

Cuisine: Korean

Course: Main Course / Stew

Difficulty: Medium

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 4–6

Calories: Approximately 560 per serving

Ingredients

Broth

4 cups chicken stock
2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon sugar

Stew

1½ cups kimchi, chopped
1 block firm tofu, sliced
1 package ramen noodles (discard seasoning packet)
6 ounces Spam®, sliced
2 smoked sausages, sliced
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 small onion, sliced
2 green onions, chopped
1 cup napa cabbage
1 cup rice cakes (tteok), optional
1 slice American cheese (optional but traditional)

Garnish

Sesame seeds
Green onions
Fresh chili slices

Equipment Needed

Korean hot pot or Dutch oven
Ladle
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Chef's knife
Cutting board
Serving bowls
Chopsticks

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1

Whisk together the chicken stock, gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and sugar until smooth.

Step 2

Arrange the kimchi, tofu, Spam®, sausage, mushrooms, onion, napa cabbage, and rice cakes neatly in a large pot.

Traditionally, the ingredients are arranged in sections for an attractive presentation.

Step 3

Pour the broth over the arranged ingredients.

Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

Step 4

Reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 5

Add the ramen noodles during the final 4–5 minutes of cooking.

Do not overcook them.

Step 6

Place the slice of American cheese on top during the final minute if using.

Allow it to melt into the broth.

Step 7

Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and fresh chili.

Serve immediately while bubbling hot.

Chef's Tips

Use well-fermented kimchi for the deepest flavor.
Gochujang is essential for authenticity.
Add the noodles at the end so they remain springy.
Arrange ingredients neatly before adding the broth for a restaurant-style presentation.
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less gochugaru.
Serve with steamed rice to balance the heat.

Variations

Seafood Budae Jjigae

Add shrimp, squid, or mussels.

Beef Version

Replace Spam® with thinly sliced beef.

Vegetarian Version

Use vegetable broth and replace the meats with extra mushrooms and tofu.

Extra Spicy Version

Add sliced Korean green chilies.

Cheese Lover's Version

Top with shredded mozzarella in addition to American cheese.

Storage

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze the broth and meats separately for up to 2 months. Add fresh noodles after reheating.

Reheating

Warm gently on the stovetop and add a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Budae Jjigae very spicy?

It has a medium level of heat, but you can easily adjust the amount of gochujang and gochugaru.

Can I make it without Spam®?

Yes. Ham, bacon, beef, or additional sausage work well.

What noodles should I use?

Traditional Korean instant ramen noodles are ideal, but other instant ramen brands work too.

Why is cheese added?

American cheese is a classic ingredient that melts into the broth, adding richness and balancing the spice.

What should I serve with it?

Steamed rice, kimchi, pickled vegetables, and Korean side dishes (banchan).

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

Calories: 560
Protein: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Fat: 32 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 1,620 mg

Nutrition values are estimates and vary depending on ingredient brands.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

Steamed Korean Rice
Kimchi
Pickled Radish
Korean Cucumber Salad
Japchae
Korean Fried Chicken
Mandu (Korean Dumplings)
Banchan Assortment

Final Thoughts

Korean Army Stew is more than just a meal—it's a symbol of creativity, resilience, and the communal spirit of Korean dining. Rich with spicy, savory flavors and packed with a variety of textures, Budae Jjigae is the kind of dish that brings everyone together around the table.

Whether you're exploring Korean cuisine for the first time or recreating a restaurant favorite at home, this hearty stew delivers bold flavors and comforting warmth in every bowl.

Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae) – Authentic Spicy Korean Comfort Food