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How Spam, Hot Dogs, and Instant Noodles Made One of Korea's Most Iconic Dishes — K-Town

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Recipe Information

Recipe Available
Video-Specific Recipe

Korean Army Stew

Cultural Context

Korean Army Stew, or Budae Jjigae, originated in the aftermath of the Korean War when food shortages led to the creative use of surplus ingredients, including processed meats from U.S. military bases. This hearty stew symbolizes resilience and resourcefulness, bringing together flavors of spicy gochujang and savory meats. Today, it's a beloved comfort food in Korea, often enjoyed in social gatherings and has inspired variations worldwide, making it a popular dish in Korean restaurants globally.

KoreanKRmain
45 min
medium
4 servings
Servings4
4 cups anchovy broth
4 cups vegetable broth
1 lb spam
1 lb hot dogs
1 lb ground beef
2 packs instant noodles
1 cup kimchi

Quantities are estimated based on standard recipes for your convenience. The actual ingredients used in this video are accurate.

spam

🥗Healthier: chicken breast

💰Cheaper: canned tuna

Chicken breast is leaner and lower in sodium.

instant noodles

🥗Healthier: whole grain noodles

💰Cheaper: regular pasta

Whole grain noodles are more nutritious.

gochujang

🥗Healthier: red pepper flakes + miso

💰Cheaper: chili paste

Red pepper flakes provide heat without added sugar.

kimchi

🥗Healthier: sauerkraut

💰Cheaper: pickled vegetables

Sauerkraut offers similar tanginess.

1

Start with anchovy and vegetable broth as the base.

2

Add spam, hot dogs, and ground beef to the broth.

3

Incorporate instant noodles and kimchi into the stew.

4

Bring the mixture to a boil and finish cooking at the table.

Cooking Techniques

boilingsimmering

Equipment Needed

large potknifecutting boardstirring spoon

Spice Level:

🌶️🌶️🌶️

Dietary

pescatarian

Allergens

soy

Also Known As

Budae Jjigae
Local Name: 부대찌개

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