Korean Army Stew, or Budae Jjigae, is a comforting and flavorful Korean hot pot dish that perfectly blends traditional Korean spices with Western ingredients. Born out of post-war ingenuity, this stew combines a rich, spicy broth made with gochujang (Korean red chili paste) and doenjang (soybean paste) with a variety of ingredients like soft tofu, zucchini, Spam, and vibrant chili peppers. The dish is beloved for its hearty, savory taste and its ability to bring people together around the table, with the optional garnishes of green onion and Cheongyang peppers adding a fresh, spicy kick. Whether served as a communal feast or enjoyed solo, Korean Army Stew is a celebration of fusion cuisine and comfort food at its finest.
