Budae Jjigae (One-Pot Korean Army Stew)
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Experience the comforting and hearty flavor of Budae Jjigae, a traditional Korean army stew that combines a medley of ingredients, including tofu, noodles, kimchi, and savory meats. This one-pot wonder is perfect for sharing and offers a delightful mix of spices and textures that will warm you up and satisfy your cravings. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this stew will surely become a family favorite.
Budae Jjigae is a reflection of Korea's rich culinary history, born from necessity and creativity.
The History of Budae Jjigae
Budae Jjigae, also known as Army Stew, originated in Korea shortly after the Korean War. It emerged as a creative solution to the scarcity of ingredients at the time. Influenced by American military rations, this stew incorporates various items such as hot dogs, canned beans, and spam. The unique blend of flavors quickly gained popularity, transforming this humble meal into a comfort food staple that bridges tradition and innovation.
As time progressed, Budae Jjigae has evolved to include a wider array of ingredients, adapting to the preferences of modern diners while maintaining its rustic roots. Today, you can find countless variations of the dish, each boasting its own unique twist while celebrating the essence of togetherness and warmth it brings during shared meals.
Health Benefits of Budae Jjigae
One of the key elements of Budae Jjigae is its variety of ingredients, which contribute valuable nutrients to the dish. Tofu, for instance, is a fantastic source of protein and is rich in essential amino acids. Combined with the fermented goodness of kimchi, this stew offers not only comfort but also digestive benefits and a boost to your overall immune system.
Moreover, the use of lean meats like pork and beef adds iron and other essential nutrients, making Budae Jjigae a well-rounded meal. While it's easy to indulge in the flavors, the inclusion of vegetables further enhances its nutritional profile, allowing you to enjoy a hearty dish without compromising your health.
Serving Suggestions
While Budae Jjigae is a complete meal on its own, you can enhance the dining experience by offering a selection of side dishes. Classic Korean accompaniments like pickled radish or a refreshing cucumber salad can provide a crisp contrast to the stew's rich, comforting flavors. Additionally, a bowl of steamed white rice can help absorb the savory broth, making every bite delightful.
For a fun and interactive dining experience, consider serving the stew from the pot at the table, allowing guests to customize their bowls with additional toppings such as scallions or sesame seeds. This not only adds a personal touch but also makes the meal more engaging and enjoyable, perfect for gatherings with family and friends.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 200g tofu, diced
- 100g instant noodles
- 150g kimchi, chopped
- 200g pork, sliced
- 100g beef, sliced
- 500ml chicken broth
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean chili powder)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to adjust ingredients as necessary to fit your taste!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Broth
In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, kimchi, gochugaru, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer.
Add the Meats
Add the sliced pork and beef to the pot. Cook until the meats are fully cooked.
Incorporate Tofu and Noodles
Gently add the diced tofu and instant noodles into the pot. Let it cook for another 5-7 minutes.
Serve Hot
Once the noodles are cooked, taste the stew and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot!
Enjoy your delicious Budae Jjigae with friends and family!
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, fear not! Budae Jjigae can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, you may want to add a little extra broth to revive its delicious flavors. The stew may also taste even better the next day, as the ingredients continue to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. Divide it into portions and store in the freezer for up to a month. Just be sure to label your containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove until piping hot.
Customization Options
One of the joys of making Budae Jjigae is the freedom to customize it based on your taste preferences. Feel free to swap out meats with alternatives like chicken or even go vegetarian by adding more vegetables and plant-based proteins like tempeh or seitan. This adaptability allows everyone to enjoy a bowl that aligns with their dietary choices.
You can also adjust the spice level to suit your palate. If you're a fan of heat, consider adding more gochugaru or incorporating sliced jalapeños. Conversely, if you prefer a milder stew, reduce the amount of chili powder or remove spicy elements altogether. Cooking is all about experimentation, and Budae Jjigae is the perfect canvas for your culinary creativity.
Pairing Drinks
When it comes to pairing drinks with Budae Jjigae, there are several options that can complement the dish marvelously. For a traditional touch, consider serving a chilled glass of Korean rice wine, known as makgeolli. Its creamy texture and slight sweetness can balance the spiciness of the stew, enhancing your overall dining experience.
Alternatively, if you're more of a beer lover, a light lager or a crisp pilsner can be a refreshing match, cleansing the palate between each flavorful bite. If you'd rather indulge in a non-alcoholic option, a simple iced tea or a sweetened lemon drink can provide the perfect contrast to the robust flavors of Budae Jjigae.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute with chicken or seafood.
→ Is this dish spicy?
It can be, but you can adjust the gochugaru to your spice preference.
Budae Jjigae (One-Pot Korean Army Stew)
Experience the comforting and hearty flavor of Budae Jjigae, a traditional Korean army stew that combines a medley of ingredients, including tofu, noodles, kimchi, and savory meats. This one-pot wonder is perfect for sharing and offers a delightful mix of spices and textures that will warm you up and satisfy your cravings. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this stew will surely become a family favorite.
Created by: Chelsea Payne
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Base Ingredients
- 200g tofu, diced
- 100g instant noodles
- 150g kimchi, chopped
- 200g pork, sliced
- 100g beef, sliced
- 500ml chicken broth
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean chili powder)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, kimchi, gochugaru, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer.
Add the sliced pork and beef to the pot. Cook until the meats are fully cooked.
Gently add the diced tofu and instant noodles into the pot. Let it cook for another 5-7 minutes.
Once the noodles are cooked, taste the stew and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 65g
- Fat: 20g