Budae jjigae

Budae jjigae (also known as Army Base Stew or Army Stew) is a type of jjigae, a Korean dish similar to a Western stew. It was created shortly after the armistice that ended the Korean War, using the scrounged or smuggled surplus foods from the U.S. military bases.

History

Budae jjigae is believed to have been invented in Uijeongbu, an area that is close to a U.S. military base, following the end of the Korean War. During and after the war, food was scarce in South Korea. As a result, surplus foods from U.S. military bases, such as hot dogs and Spam, were combined with traditional Korean ingredients, like kimchi and gochujang, to create this unique dish.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of budae jjigae are Spam, sausage, baked beans, and kimchi. Other ingredients often include ramyeon (Korean instant noodles), American cheese, green onions, and chili peppers. The dish is typically served with rice and can be accompanied by soju.

Preparation

To prepare budae jjigae, the ingredients are combined in a large pot and boiled. The dish is usually served in a communal pot and eaten with friends or family. The ingredients can be adjusted according to personal preference, and additional ingredients can be added as desired.

Cultural significance

Budae jjigae is a symbol of the post-war era in South Korea, representing the hardship and the resilience of the Korean people during that time. Today, it is a popular dish in South Korea, particularly in the colder months, and is enjoyed for its hearty and comforting qualities.

See also

• Korean cuisine
• Korean War
• Jjigae