Budae Jjigae (Korean Army Stew) Recipe

Budae Jjigae (부대찌개), also known as Korean Army Stew, is a spicy and hearty hot pot made with kimchi, spam, sausage, instant noodles, and vegetables in a gochujang-based broth. Born after the Korean War using surplus army ingredients, today it’s a beloved Korean comfort food that’s both nostalgic and modern.

If you’re looking for an authentic Korean hot pot recipe, a spicy stew perfect for gatherings, or a quick one-pot meal, Budae Jjigae is the dish for you.

Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

• 1 cup well-fermented kimchi, chopped
• 150g (5 oz) spam (luncheon meat), sliced
• 150g (5 oz) sausages or hot dogs, sliced
• 200g (7 oz) tofu, cut into cubes
• ½ onion, sliced
• 1 cup napa cabbage, chopped
• 1 pack instant ramen noodles
• 1 green onion, chopped
• 2 cups anchovy broth or chicken stock

For the seasoning sauce:

• 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
• 1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• ½ tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp sesame oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the seasoning

• In a small bowl, mix gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and sesame oil.

2. Assemble the stew

• In a shallow pot, arrange kimchi, spam, sausage, tofu, onion, and cabbage neatly.
• Place the seasoning sauce in the center.

3. Add broth and cook

• Pour broth into the pot until ingredients are mostly covered.
• Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

4. Add noodles & finish

• Once the stew is bubbling, add instant ramen noodles.
• Cook for 3–4 minutes until noodles are done.

5. Serve hot

• Garnish with green onions and serve with steamed rice.

Serving Tips

• Budae Jjigae is best served family-style, directly from the pot at the center of the table.
• Add cheese on top for a creamy, fusion-style flavor.
• For extra richness, add baked beans (a common addition in traditional versions).

Variations

• Seafood Army Stew: Add clams, shrimp, or squid.
• Extra Spicy Version: Increase gochugaru or add sliced fresh chili peppers.
• Budget Version: Replace stock with water + ½ tsp soup powder.

✨ Pro Tip: The key to delicious Budae Jjigae is balancing the spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. Let it simmer long enough for the broth to absorb the richness of spam, sausage, and kimchi.

Why You’ll Love This Budae Jjigae Recipe

• ✅ Hearty and filling—packed with meat, noodles, and vegetables
• ✅ Perfect for gatherings—fun to share at the table
• ✅ Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
• ✅ Authentic yet customizable—traditional Korean stew with modern twists

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate Korean army stew recipe, this budae jjigae will warm you up and bring a taste of Korean food culture to your home.