Army Stew Budae Jjigae (부대찌개)
Why this food?
The legendary Korean-American fusion stew with SPAM, hot dogs, and ramen. Born from scarcity — now beloved nationwide and in every K-drama.
🇰🇷 K-Culture Tip
부대찌개 was born near US military bases after the Korean War, when Koreans creatively combined surplus American rations (SPAM, hot dogs, baked beans) with Korean flavors. Today it carries zero stigma — it's a beloved comfort food, a symbol of Korean resilience, and proof that you can make something extraordinary from whatever you have.
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Substitute Ingredients
All available at Walmart
| Original | Substitute |
|---|---|
SPAM 스팸 | SPAM Classic SPAM Already American — no substitute needed! Shop at Walmart |
Vienna sausages 소시지 | Hot dogs (sliced) Ball Park Shop at Walmart |
Instant ramen noodles 라면 | Top Ramen (noodles only) Top Ramen Skip the seasoning packet — use only the noodle blocks Shop at Walmart |
Baked beans 베이크드빈 | Canned baked beans Bush's Adds sweetness — do not skip Shop at Walmart |
🛒 Can't find it at Walmart? Try a Korean grocery store
Your Shopping List
Walmart edition
- 1 can (7 oz), sliced SPAM Classic
- 4 links Hot dogs (sliced)
- 2 packs (noodles only) Top Ramen (noodles only)
- 1/2 can Canned baked beans
Instructions
- 1
Arrange SPAM slices, sliced hot dogs, baked beans, and kimchi in sections in a wide shallow pot
- 2
Add 3 cups water or broth, bring to boil over high heat
- 3
Mix in 2 tbsp miso paste + 1 tbsp sriracha + 1 tsp soy sauce
- 4
Add 2 instant ramen noodle blocks (skip the seasoning packet), cook 3 minutes
- 5
Lay American cheese slice on top — it melts into the broth for creaminess
