Spam jjigae, a beloved Korean comfort food, is surprisingly simple to make and bursting with flavor. This hearty stew, traditionally featuring Spam, kimchi, and gochujang (Korean chili paste), offers a delightful balance of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet notes. It's a perfect weeknight meal, ready in under 30 minutes, and adaptable to your spice preference and available ingredients. The unique combination of ingredients creates a depth of flavor that belies its straightforward preparation, making it a satisfying and versatile dish for both experienced cooks and beginners.
Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times! This easy Spam jjigae recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring you create a delicious and authentic Korean stew without fuss. Whether you're craving a quick lunch, a comforting dinner, or simply want to explore Korean cuisine, this recipe is your perfect starting point. Get ready to dive into the delicious world of Spam jjigae!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Spatula
Ingredients
- Spam
- Kimchi
- Onion
- Garlic
- Green Onion
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- Soy sauce
- Sugar
- Water or Dashi
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prep the Ingredients
- Prepare all the ingredients. Chop the onion, garlic, and green onion.

Step 2. Sauté the Spam and Aromatics
- Start by adding Spam into the pot. Add other ingredients such as Kimchi, Onion, Garlic, etc.

Step 3. Season the Stew
- Add Gochujang, Gochugaru, Soy sauce, and Sugar. Adjust the amount of seasoning to your preference.

Step 4. Simmer to Perfection
- Add water or dashi to the pot. Bring to a boil and then simmer until the ingredients are well cooked and flavors have melded.

Read more: Instant Pot Chinese Beef Brisket Stew (蘿蔔燜牛腩) - Easy Recipe
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute Spam with other ingredients?
Yes! You can use other canned meats like luncheon meat or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
2. What if I don't have gochujang?
Gochujang provides the signature flavor, but you can substitute with a blend of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) and a little soy sauce or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
3. How can I make it spicier/less spicy?
For spicier jjigae, add more gochujang or gochugaru. For milder jjigae, reduce the amount of gochujang or add a touch of sugar to balance the heat.
Enjoy your delicious and easy Spam Jjigae! This versatile recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying weekend treat. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with this simple yet flavorful Korean classic!