Craving a vibrant and flavorful culinary adventure? Look no further than this easy Tuna Ssamjang recipe! Ssamjang, a staple Korean condiment, traditionally combines fermented soybean paste (doenjang), gochujang (Korean chili paste), and other savory ingredients. This recipe offers a delightful twist, incorporating the richness of tuna for a quick and satisfying meal. It’s perfect as a dip with vegetables, a spread for sandwiches, or even a flavorful sauce for grilled meats. The incredible depth of flavor belies its remarkably simple preparation.
Prepare to be amazed by how quickly and easily you can elevate your everyday meals with this versatile sauce. This recipe will guide you step-by-step through the process of creating a delicious and authentic-tasting Tuna Ssamjang. Get ready to experience a burst of savory umami, a subtle sweetness, and a delightful hint of spice that will leave you wanting more.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Green onions: 30g
- Onion: 100g
- Cheongyang peppers: 3
- Red Cheongyang pepper (optional)
- Pine mushrooms or shiitake mushrooms (optional)
- Garlic: 25g (8 cloves)
- Ari tuna (canned): 150g
- Soybean paste (Doenjang): 3.5 spoons
- Red pepper paste (Gochujang): 3 spoons
- Mirin: 2 spoons
- Red pepper powder (Gochugaru): 1 spoon
- Minced garlic: 1 spoon
- Plum extract: 1 spoon
- Tuna fish sauce: 0.5 spoon
- Corn syrup: 2 tablespoons
- Sesame oil: 2 tablespoons
- Sesame salt: 2 tablespoons
- Water (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients and Aromatics
- Chop 30g of green onions, 100g of onion, and three Cheongyang peppers. Optionally add other peppers or mushrooms.
- separate the tuna from the oil.
- Stir-fry the green onions and onions over medium-high heat until transparent.



Step 2. Build the Ssamjang Base
- Lower the heat, add soybean paste and red pepper paste, stir-fry to remove the raw smell.
- Add mirin, red pepper powder, minced garlic, plum extract, and tuna fish sauce. Mix well.


Step 3. Incorporate Tuna and Adjust Consistency
- Add the drained tuna and mix. Add water if the mixture is too thick.

Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Turn off the heat. Finish with corn syrup, sesame oil, and sesame salt.

Read more: Instant Pot Chinese Beef Brisket Stew (蘿蔔燜牛腩) - Easy Recipe
Tips
- Use the drained tuna oil instead of cooking oil.
- This ssamjang goes well with various ssam vegetables like lettuce, sesame leaves, and cabbage.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use canned tuna in this recipe?
Yes! Canned tuna in water or oil works perfectly. Just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the sauce.
2. How long can I store leftover Tuna Ssamjang?
Store leftover Tuna Ssamjang in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
This easy Tuna Ssamjang recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create complex and satisfying flavors. Enjoy this versatile sauce as a dip, spread, or marinade – the possibilities are endless! We hope you savor every delicious bite of this Korean culinary gem.