Korean Army Base Stew Recipe
Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 41 reviews

If you’ve never experienced the comforting explosion of flavors in a Korean Army Base Stew Recipe, you’re in for a real treat. This hearty, spicy stew is a delightful harmony of savory meats, spicy kimchi, chewy rice cakes, and melty cheese, all simmered together to create an irresistible one-pot meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or sharing with friends, the Korean Army Base Stew Recipe brings warmth, depth, and a playful mixture of textures to your table that will have you coming back for seconds and thirds.

kimchi chopped in a small glass bowl showing vibrant red and orange hues with visible chili flakes, a small dish of bright red gochujang paste next to a bowl of deep red gochugaru chili flakes, minced garlic cloves scattered artistically on a white ceramic spoon, a small dish of dark brown soy sauce with a glossy surface, a teaspoon filled with granulated white sugar, a clear measuring cup with light golden chicken broth, firm white tofu block sliced into neat rectangles, slices of golden-brown sausages arranged in a semicircle, cubes of pink and beige spam or cooked ham, white Korean rice cakes (tteok) oval-shaped and smooth, a bundle of pale cream enoki mushrooms with long slender stems, a single slice of bright orange cheddar cheese, finely chopped green onions with contrasting dark green and pale green rings sprinkled around, a small bowl of glossy baked beans showing reddish-brown sauce, all ingredients neatly spaced and spread out on a clean, light wood surface that enhances their vibrant colors and varied textures, soft natural lighting highlighting moisture and freshness, subtle shadows for depth, minimalistic style with no clutter, emphasizing the ingredients’ freshness and authenticity, overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1 this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together simply yet are essential to building the bold, layered flavors and textures that make this stew so beloved. Each adds a unique element, from the spicy kick of gochujang to the tender bite of tofu, ensuring every spoonful is packed with unforgettable taste.

  • 1 cup kimchi: Provides tangy, fermented heat that forms the stew’s spicy backbone.
  • 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste): Adds rich, deep chili flavor and a subtle sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes): Enhances spiciness with a smoky, vibrant punch.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the stew with aromatic depth and warmth.
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings umami complexity and balances the heat.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar: Softens the spice and harmonizes flavors.
  • 4 cups chicken broth or water: The stew’s flavorful base that melds everything together.
  • 1 block firm tofu, sliced: Offers a soft, creamy texture to contrast the meats.
  • 2–3 sausages, sliced: Adds savory richness and a satisfying bite.
  • 1 cup spam or cooked ham, cubed: Classic ingredient that brings salty goodness and nostalgia.
  • 1 cup Korean rice cakes (tteok): Provides a chewy, comforting chew that soaks up the flavors.
  • 1 pack ramen noodles: Soft, tender noodles that make the stew more filling.
  • 1 bunch enoki mushrooms, trimmed: Delicate fungi that add earthiness and lightness.
  • 1 slice cheddar or American cheese: Melts beautifully to introduce creamy richness.
  • 2 stalks green onions, chopped: Fresh garnish that brightens the stew with color and flavor.
  • ½ cup baked beans (optional): Adds a touch of sweetness and unique texture for a playful twist.

How to Make Korean Army Base Stew Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Start by placing your pot over medium heat and getting the broth ready. This warm liquid will serve as the foundation, carrying every rich and spicy flavor that defines the Korean Army Base Stew Recipe.

Step 2: Make the Spice Paste

In a small bowl, mix together gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, minced garlic, sugar, and a little broth. This spice paste is the heart of the stew, bursting with heat, sweetness, and umami that will infuse the entire pot.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

Arrange kimchi, sausages, cubed spam, sliced tofu, enoki mushrooms, and rice cakes thoughtfully in the pot. This layering allows each ingredient to soak up flavors while keeping their textures distinct and enjoyable.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Pour the prepared broth and spice paste over the layered ingredients, then bring everything to a boil. Once bubbling, lower the heat and simmer the stew gently for 10 to 15 minutes so the flavors marry beautifully and the ingredients soften just right.

Step 5: Add Ramen Noodles

Drop in the ramen noodles and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they become tender. The noodles absorb the smoky, spicy broth, making every slurp utterly satisfying.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Green Onions

Top the stew with a slice of cheddar or American cheese and sprinkle in the chopped green onions. Let the cheese melt partially into the hot stew, adding creamy richness that balances out the bold flavors.

Step 7: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Serve this vibrant Korean Army Base Stew Recipe straight from the pot, accompanied by steamy rice or extra kimchi to scoop alongside. It’s a perfect communal dish that invites sharing and savoring every spicy, savory bite.

How to Serve Korean Army Base Stew Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh green onions add a lovely pop of color and a mild onion-like crunch that brightens the overall dish. For an extra layer, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or fresh chili slices amps up both texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pairing Korean Army Base Stew Recipe with fluffy steamed rice is a classic option that balances the fiery stew. Kimchi or pickled vegetables can refresh your palate between spicy bites, while a simple leafy salad keeps the meal light and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the stew in individual stone bowls to keep it piping hot throughout the meal. You might also set out small bowls of additional toppings like chopped boiled eggs, shredded cheese, or fried shallots so everyone can customize their bowls to their liking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the stew to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container before refrigerating. Leftover Korean Army Base Stew Recipe will keep well for 3 to 4 days and may taste even better as the flavors continue to deepen overnight.

Freezing

This stew freezes nicely, making it a handy meal prep option. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that rice cakes and noodles might soften a bit after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat gently over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. If the broth thickens or reduces too much, add a splash of water or broth to bring back its perfect stew-like consistency.

FAQs

Can I make Korean Army Base Stew Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the sausages, spam, and broth with vegetable broth and add extra mushrooms or firm tofu for protein. The key flavors from kimchi and the spice paste will still deliver that satisfying punch.

What can I substitute for gochujang?

If you can’t find gochujang, a mix of miso paste with a bit of chili garlic sauce or sriracha can work as a reasonable substitute, though the unique sweetness and depth of Korean chili paste may be missing.

Is spam essential in the Korean Army Base Stew Recipe?

Spam is a traditional ingredient lending its salty, umami richness, but feel free to swap it out for ham, bacon, or even extra sausage depending on your taste and what you have on hand.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Definitely! Control the heat by adjusting the amount of gochujang and gochugaru you add. For a milder stew, reduce these or omit the chili flakes, and for more heat, feel free to add fresh chopped chilies or extra chili powder.

What is the best way to enjoy leftovers?

Leftovers taste fantastic reheated as a stew or even as a hearty soup for a quick lunch. You can also toss the cold stew over steamed rice and reheat in a microwave for a delicious convenience meal.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or craving a cozy solo meal, the Korean Army Base Stew Recipe is one of those dishes that embraces you with warmth and bold flavors every single time. It’s straightforward, fun to assemble, and endlessly customizable, making it a go-to for anyone who loves comfort food with a twist. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try — your taste buds are about to thank you!

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Korean Army Base Stew Recipe

Korean Army Base Stew Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 41 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 4 servings
  • Category: Soup/Stew
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Korean
Print Recipe

Description

Korean Army Base Stew, or Budae Jjigae, is a hearty and flavorful Korean hot pot dish that combines spicy kimchi broth with an assortment of proteins like sausages, spam, tofu, and ramen noodles. This comforting stew is enhanced with gochujang and gochugaru for a spicy kick, and topped with melty cheese and fresh green onions, making it perfect for sharing on a chilly day.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup kimchi, chopped
  • 4 cups chicken broth or water
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)

Proteins and Add-ins

  • 2–3 sausages, sliced
  • 1 cup spam or cooked ham, cubed
  • 1 block firm tofu, sliced
  • ½ cup baked beans (optional)

Carbohydrates and Vegetables

  • 1 cup Korean rice cakes (tteok)
  • 1 pack ramen noodles
  • 1 bunch enoki mushrooms, trimmed

Toppings

  • 1 slice cheddar or American cheese
  • 2 stalks green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the broth: Set your pot over medium heat and pour in the chicken broth or water to warm it up while you prepare other ingredients.
  2. Make the spice paste: In a small bowl, combine gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, minced garlic, sugar, and a small amount of the warmed broth. Mix well to form a smooth and flavorful spice paste.
  3. Layer the ingredients: Arrange the chopped kimchi, sliced sausages, cubed spam, sliced tofu, trimmed enoki mushrooms, and Korean rice cakes neatly into the pot.
  4. Add broth and spice paste, then simmer: Pour the warmed broth and prepared spice paste over the layered ingredients. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and ingredients to cook through.
  5. Cook ramen noodles: Add the ramen noodles to the simmering stew and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the noodles are tender and fully cooked.
  6. Top with cheese and green onions: Place a slice of cheddar or American cheese on top of the hot stew along with chopped green onions. Allow the cheese to melt slightly into the stew for a creamy, rich finish.
  7. Serve hot: Serve the stew directly from the pot with side dishes like steamed rice or extra kimchi if desired. Enjoy the warm, spicy flavors straight away.

Notes

  • Feel free to customize the protein selection by adding different types of sausages or ham according to your taste.
  • If you cannot find Korean rice cakes, you may substitute with mochi or omit them entirely.
  • Adding baked beans is optional but adds a slight sweetness and texture contrast.
  • For a spicier stew, increase the amount of gochujang or gochugaru according to your heat preference.
  • Use chicken broth for richer flavor, or water for a lighter version.
  • If cheese is not preferred, you can omit it or substitute with mozzarella for a different melt.
  • Serve with a side of steamed white rice to balance the heat and spice.

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