hot pot the Korean army

Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae): A Hearty Culinary Guide

Korean Army Stew, or *Budae Jjigae*, is a beloved spicy stew born from the fusion of U.S. military surplus ingredients and Korean flavors. Here’s a simple guide to making this comforting dish.

Ingredients:

- Base: Gochujang (Korean chili paste), gochugaru (red pepper flakes), soy sauce, doenjang (soybean paste), and anchovy stock.

- Proteins: Spam, sausage, bacon, sliced pork belly, or canned ham.

- Veggies: Cabbage, kimchi, onions, mushrooms, and tofu.

- Extras: Baked beans, instant noodles (like Shin Ramyun), and cheese (optional, for melting).

Steps:

1. Prep: Slice Spam, sausage, and vegetables. Drain kimchi to reduce excess liquid.

2. Sauté: Brown Spam and sausage in a pot. Add onions and kimchi, stir-frying until fragrant.

3. Simmer: Mix gochujang, gochugaru, and doenjang with anchovy stock. Pour into the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat.

4. Add Ingredients: Layer cabbage, mushrooms, and tofu. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until veggies soften.

5. Finish: Add baked beans and instant noodles. Cook 2–3 more minutes. Top with melted cheese or a fried egg before serving.

Tip: Adjust spiciness with more gochujang or broth. Serve hot with rice for a satisfying meal. This hearty stew is perfect for sharing and warming up on cold days!