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8 Korean Dishes For A Week Under $25

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Chung's K Food
Chung's K Food
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15 recipes

Budae Jjigae, or 'Army Stew', originated in Korea after the Korean War, utilizing surplus ingredients like Spam and processed foods. It symbolizes resourcefulness and comfort, often enjoyed in communal settings. Today, variations abound, with many adding different proteins and vegetables, reflecting personal tastes and regional flavors.

Ingredients

  • potatoes
  • spam
  • onions
  • garlic
  • green onions
  • gochujang
  • soy sauce
  • water
  • sesame oil
  • black pepper
  • carrots
  • tofu
  • mushrooms
  • kimchi
  • sugar

Instructions

  1. 1Peel and cut potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
  2. 2Slice spam into cubes.
  3. 3Chop onions and garlic finely.
  4. 4Heat sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
  5. 5Add onions and garlic; sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. 6Stir in spam cubes and cook until slightly browned, about 5 minutes.
  7. 7Add potatoes, carrots, and mushrooms to the pot; mix well.
  8. 8In a bowl, combine gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, and water; stir until smooth.
  9. 9Pour the sauce over the potato mixture and bring to a boil.
  10. 10Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
  11. 11Add tofu and kimchi; stir gently to combine.
  12. 12Cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
  13. 13Garnish with chopped green onions and black pepper before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

spam

Healthier: turkey spam

Cheaper: canned chicken

Turkey spam reduces fat content while canned chicken is often more affordable.

gochujang

Healthier: red pepper flakes

Cheaper: sriracha

Red pepper flakes offer similar heat, while sriracha is a budget-friendly option.

sesame oil

Healthier: olive oil

Cheaper: canola oil

Olive oil provides a healthier fat option, while canola oil is a cost-effective substitute.

tofu

Healthier: tempeh

Cheaper: extra firm tofu

Tempeh is a protein-rich alternative, while extra firm tofu is often less expensive.

Techniques

sautéingbraising

Equipment

large potcutting boardknifemixing bowlspatula
🌶️🌶️🌶️Mediumsoy

Also Known As

Budae Jjigae
vegetariangluten-free

Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables, primarily napa cabbage and Korean radish. It is a staple in Korean cuisine, often served with meals and known for its bold flavors and health benefits. The fermentation process not only enhances the taste but also preserves the vegetables, making kimchi a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Its origins date back centuries, with various regional variations reflecting local ingredients and preferences.

Ingredients

  • napa cabbage
  • Korean radish
  • salt
  • garlic
  • ginger
  • Korean red pepper flakes
  • fish sauce
  • scallions

Instructions

  1. 1Cut the napa cabbage into quarters and remove the core.
  2. 2Sprinkle salt between the leaves and let it sit for a few hours to wilt.
  3. 3Rinse the cabbage thoroughly to remove excess salt.
  4. 4In a bowl, mix garlic, ginger, Korean red pepper flakes, and fish sauce to create the paste.
  5. 5Add the chopped scallions and Korean radish to the paste and mix well.
  6. 6Combine the paste with the cabbage and ensure it's evenly coated.
  7. 7Pack the mixture tightly into a jar, leaving some space at the top.
  8. 8Seal the jar and let it ferment at room temperature for a few days before refrigerating.

Ingredient Alternatives

napa cabbage

Healthier: savoy cabbage

Cheaper: green cabbage

Savoy cabbage is more nutritious, while green cabbage is often less expensive.

fish sauce

Cheaper: soy sauce

Soy sauce is a budget-friendly alternative for a vegetarian option.

Equipment

cutting boardknifemixing bowljar
🌶️🌶️🌶️Hotfish

Also Known As

KimcheeKim Chee

Ingredients

  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1 can of Spam, sliced
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
  2. 2Add the sliced Spam and cook until lightly browned on both sides, about 5 minutes.
  3. 3Remove the Spam from the pot and set aside.
  4. 4In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. 5Add the potato chunks to the pot and stir to coat with the oil and garlic.
  6. 6Pour in the soy sauce, sugar, water, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  7. 7Return the Spam to the pot, nestling it among the potatoes.
  8. 8Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
  9. 9Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce has thickened.
  10. 10Once done, sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Equipment

large potcutting boardknifemeasuring cupsmeasuring spoons

Bibimbap is a traditional Korean dish that combines rice with a variety of vegetables, meat, and a spicy sauce. It is often served in a hot stone bowl, which creates a crispy rice layer at the bottom. The dish is known for its vibrant colors and nutritional balance, making it a popular choice for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Ingredients

  • cooked rice
  • mixed vegetables
  • gochujang
  • sesame oil
  • egg
  • meat (beef or chicken)
  • seaweed
  • soy sauce

Instructions

  1. 1Prepare the rice according to package instructions.
  2. 2Sauté the mixed vegetables in sesame oil until tender.
  3. 3Cook the meat in a separate pan until fully cooked.
  4. 4In a bowl, place a serving of rice as the base.
  5. 5Top the rice with sautéed vegetables, cooked meat, and a fried egg.
  6. 6Drizzle gochujang and soy sauce over the top before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

meat (beef or chicken)

Healthier: tofu

Cheaper: ground pork

Tofu is a plant-based protein, while ground pork is often less expensive than beef.

Techniques

cookingsautéing

Equipment

panbowlstove
🌶️🌶️🌶️Mediumeggsoy

Also Known As

mixed rice비빔밥
vegetarianplant-baseddairy-freeegg-freegluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch radishes, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, julienned
  • 1/4 cup carrots, julienned
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1/4 cup gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. 1In a large bowl, combine the sliced radishes, cucumber, carrots, and green onions.
  2. 2In a separate small bowl, mix together the gochugaru, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and salt to create the dressing.
  3. 3Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss well to combine.
  4. 4Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. 5Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.
  6. 6Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Equipment

mixing bowlcutting boardknife
🌶️🌶️🌶️Medium

Korean Fried Chicken has become a global sensation, known for its crispy texture and flavorful sauces. Traditionally enjoyed as a snack or paired with beer, it reflects the Korean culinary emphasis on bold flavors and textures. The dish has evolved with various regional adaptations, making it a staple in both casual and festive dining.

Ingredients

  • chicken
  • flour
  • cornstarch
  • egg
  • garlic
  • ginger
  • soy sauce
  • gochujang
  • sugar
  • green onions
  • sesame seeds
  • vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. 1Prepare chicken by cutting it into pieces.
  2. 2Marinate chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sugar.
  3. 3In a bowl, combine flour and cornstarch.
  4. 4Dredge marinated chicken in the flour mixture.
  5. 5Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan.
  6. 6Fry chicken pieces until golden brown and crispy.
  7. 7Remove chicken and drain on paper towels.
  8. 8For extra flavor, toss fried chicken in a sauce made from gochujang and sugar.
  9. 9Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

flour

Healthier: whole wheat flour

More nutritious alternative.

chicken

Healthier: chicken thighs

Cheaper: chicken wings

Thighs are juicier, wings are often cheaper.

Techniques

fryingmarinating

Equipment

deep panmixing bowltongspaper towels
🌶️🌶️🌶️Mediumglutensoy

Also Known As

KFCYangnyeom Chicken

Ingredients

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1Place the eggs in a pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
  2. 2Once boiling, cover the pot and remove it from heat. Let the eggs sit for 10-12 minutes.
  3. 3After the time is up, transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool for about 5 minutes.
  4. 4While the eggs are cooling, prepare the marinade by combining soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
  5. 5Peel the cooled eggs carefully and place them in a container that can be sealed.
  6. 6Pour the marinade over the eggs, ensuring they are fully submerged. If necessary, add more water or soy sauce to cover the eggs completely.
  7. 7Seal the container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for best flavor.
  8. 8Once marinated, remove the eggs from the marinade and slice them in half to serve.

Equipment

potbowlcontainer with lidice bath
vegetarianplant-baseddairy-freeegg-freegluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Ingredients

  • 1 lb bok choy
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp sesame seeds
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1Wash the bok choy thoroughly under cold water and drain.
  2. 2Cut the bok choy into bite-sized pieces, separating the leaves from the stems.
  3. 3In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt.
  4. 4Blanch the bok choy in the boiling water for about 1-2 minutes until bright green and tender.
  5. 5Remove the bok choy from the pot and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
  6. 6In a mixing bowl, combine sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
  7. 7Add the blanched bok choy to the mixing bowl and toss well to coat with the dressing.
  8. 8Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top and mix gently.
  9. 9Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.

Equipment

large potmixing bowlice water bowl

Japchae is a beloved dish in Korean cuisine, traditionally served during celebrations and special occasions. Originating in the 17th century, it showcases the harmony of flavors and textures, using stir-fried glass noodles made from sweet potatoes. Today, Japchae is enjoyed globally, often adapted with various proteins and vegetables, making it a versatile favorite.

Ingredients

  • sweet potato noodles
  • beef
  • spinach
  • carrots
  • onion
  • garlic
  • soy sauce
  • sesame oil
  • sugar
  • black pepper
  • sesame seeds
  • mushrooms
  • green onion

Instructions

  1. 1Soak sweet potato noodles in warm water for 30 minutes until softened.
  2. 2Drain and cut noodles into manageable lengths.
  3. 3Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add sesame oil until shimmering.
  4. 4Add sliced beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. 5Add minced garlic and sliced onion, cooking until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
  6. 6Stir in julienned carrots and mushrooms, cooking until tender, about 3 minutes.
  7. 7Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
  8. 8Add the soaked noodles to the skillet and toss to combine with the vegetables and beef.
  9. 9Pour in soy sauce and sugar, mixing well to coat the noodles evenly.
  10. 10Season with black pepper to taste and toss in sesame seeds and chopped green onion.
  11. 11Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until heated through.
  12. 12Serve warm, garnished with extra sesame seeds if desired.

Ingredient Alternatives

beef

Healthier: tofu

Cheaper: chicken

Tofu is plant-based and lower in fat, while chicken is often less expensive.

sweet potato noodles

Healthier: zucchini noodles

Cheaper: rice noodles

Zucchini noodles are lower in carbs, while rice noodles are more affordable.

soy sauce

Healthier: low-sodium soy sauce

Cheaper: tamari

Low-sodium soy sauce reduces salt intake, and tamari is often cheaper.

sesame oil

Healthier: olive oil

Cheaper: canola oil

Olive oil is healthier, while canola oil is generally less expensive.

Techniques

soakingstir-frying

Equipment

large skilletcutting boardknifemixing bowl
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowsoy

Also Known As

ChapchaeStir-fried Glass Noodles

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchinis, grated
  • 2 medium potatoes, grated
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • oil for frying

Instructions

  1. 1Grate the zucchinis and potatoes using a box grater or food processor.
  2. 2Place the grated zucchini and potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
  3. 3In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, potatoes, flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and green onions. Mix until well combined.
  4. 4Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a thin layer of oil.
  5. 5Scoop about 1/4 cup of the mixture and flatten it into a pancake shape in the skillet.
  6. 6Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
  7. 7Remove the pancakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
  8. 8Repeat with the remaining mixture, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.
  9. 9Serve warm with sour cream or yogurt, if desired.

Equipment

box graterlarge bowlskilletpaper towels

Ingredients

  • 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ginger, minced
  • 1 green onion, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1Press the tofu for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  2. 2Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes.
  3. 3In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
  4. 4Add the tofu cubes and fry until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. 5In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, water, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  6. 6Pour the sauce over the fried tofu in the skillet.
  7. 7Bring the mixture to a simmer and cover the skillet.
  8. 8Reduce the heat to low and let it braise for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  9. 9Remove the lid and let the sauce reduce for another 5 minutes if desired.
  10. 10Garnish with chopped green onion before serving.

Equipment

skilletcutting boardknifemeasuring cupsmeasuring spoons

Korean BBQ, or Gogi-gui, is a popular dining style in Korea where diners grill their own meat at the table. This interactive meal is often accompanied by a variety of side dishes known as banchan, making it a communal and festive experience. The practice of grilling meat dates back centuries, with influences from various regions and cultures, contributing to its rich culinary heritage.

Ingredients

  • beef
  • pork
  • chicken
  • marinade
  • vegetables
  • rice
  • lettuce
  • dipping sauce

Instructions

  1. 1Prepare the marinade by mixing soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
  2. 2Cut the meat into thin slices and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. 3Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
  4. 4Grill the marinated meat until cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per side.
  5. 5Serve the grilled meat with lettuce leaves and dipping sauce.
  6. 6Enjoy with rice and assorted vegetables.

Ingredient Alternatives

beef

Healthier: lean cuts of beef

Cheaper: pork

Pork is often less expensive and can be just as flavorful.

marinade

Healthier: low-sodium soy sauce

Cheaper: homemade marinade

Homemade marinades can be more cost-effective and healthier.

Techniques

grilling

Equipment

grillgrill panmixing bowltongs
🌶️🌶️🌶️Mediumsoysesame

Also Known As

Gogi-guiKorean grilled meat
vegetariandairy-freeegg-freegluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Sundubu Jjigae, a beloved Korean dish, originates from the coastal regions where soft tofu is a staple. Traditionally enjoyed as a comforting meal, it features a rich broth infused with kimchi and spices. This dish is often shared among family and friends, symbolizing warmth and togetherness. Today, Sundubu Jjigae has gained popularity worldwide, with variations incorporating seafood, meat, or different vegetables to cater to diverse palates.

Ingredients

  • soft tofu
  • kimchi
  • vegetable broth
  • gochugaru
  • garlic
  • onion
  • zucchini
  • mushrooms
  • green onions
  • sesame oil
  • egg
  • soy sauce
  • salt

Instructions

  1. 1Heat sesame oil in a pot over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. 2Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. 3Stir in gochugaru and cook for 1 minute to release flavors.
  4. 4Add kimchi and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
  5. 5Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
  6. 6Add sliced zucchini and mushrooms; cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
  7. 7Gently add soft tofu, breaking it into pieces as desired.
  8. 8Season with soy sauce and salt to taste; simmer for 3-5 minutes.
  9. 9Crack an egg into the stew and cover; cook until the egg is set, about 2-3 minutes.
  10. 10Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

soft tofu

Healthier: silken tofu

Cheaper: firm tofu

Silken tofu maintains creaminess while being lower in calories.

kimchi

Healthier: fermented vegetables

Cheaper: pickled cabbage

Fermented vegetables provide similar probiotic benefits.

gochugaru

Healthier: paprika

Cheaper: red pepper flakes

Paprika offers color and mild heat as a substitute.

vegetable broth

Healthier: homemade broth

Cheaper: water with seasoning

Homemade broth is lower in sodium and customizable.

Techniques

sautéingsimmering

Equipment

potspatulaknifecutting board
🌶️🌶️🌶️Hotsoy

Also Known As

Soft Tofu StewSundubu Stew
vegetarianplant-baseddairy-freeegg-freegluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Ingredients

  • 2 cups mung bean sprouts
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 green onion, chopped

Instructions

  1. 1Rinse the mung bean sprouts under cold water and drain well.
  2. 2In a pot, bring water to a boil and add the mung bean sprouts. Blanch for about 2 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
  3. 3Drain the mung bean sprouts and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
  4. 4In a mixing bowl, combine the sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
  5. 5Add the blanched mung bean sprouts to the bowl and toss gently to coat them with the seasoning mixture.
  6. 6Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onion over the top and mix lightly.
  7. 7Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more soy sauce or salt as desired.
  8. 8Serve immediately as a side dish or let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.

Equipment

potmixing bowlstrainer
pescatarian

Ingredients

  • 300g fish cake (eomuk)
  • 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1/4 cup carrots, julienned
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. 1Cut the fish cake into bite-sized pieces.
  2. 2In a large bowl, combine the fish cake, green onions, and carrots.
  3. 3In a separate small bowl, mix together the sesame oil, soy sauce, gochugaru, sugar, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
  4. 4Pour the dressing over the fish cake mixture and toss well to combine.
  5. 5Let the mixture marinate for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. 6Transfer the mixture to a serving dish.
  7. 7Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish.
  8. 8Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for a refreshing cold dish.

Equipment

mixing bowlserving dish
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low

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