Korean Army Stew—better known as Budae Jjigae—is one of the easiest and most comforting Korean dishes you can prepare, especially when you’re short on time. This one-pot meal is warm, hearty, spicy, and packed with flavour. Even though you’ll often find it in the menus of the Best Food Resturents in Singapore, you don’t need to dine out to enjoy it. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking method, you can make a delicious Korean Army Stew recipe at home in under 30 minutes.

This beginner-friendly guide shows you how to cook a fast, tasty, and satisfying version perfect for busy days.

Why Korean Army Stew Is Perfect for Busy Days

Korean Army Stew is an ideal go-to meal when you need something fast, filling, and flavorful. Here’s why:

1. Uses Convenient Ingredients

Spam, sausages, kimchi, instant noodles, and canned goods make prep incredibly easy.

2. Ready in Under 30 Minutes

Even on your busiest days, you can cook this stew without effort.

3. One-Pot Cooking

Minimal dishes, easy cleanup, maximum comfort.

4. Highly Customisable

You can adjust spice levels, add more noodles, or throw in whatever leftovers you have.

5. Comfort Food Anytime

Just like the versions served in the Best Food Resturents in Singapore, this stew gives you instant warmth and satisfaction.

Ingredients You Need for a Quick Korean Army Stew

To keep things simple and fast, this recipe uses easily available items:

Main Ingredients

• 1 can Spam, sliced

• 2–3 sausages, sliced

• 1 cup kimchi (preferably well-fermented)

• 1 pack Korean instant noodles (ramyeon)

Vegetables & Extras

• ½ onion, sliced

• 1 cup cabbage

• 1 cup mushrooms (enoki, shiitake, or button)

• ½ cup tofu

Broth Base

• 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean red chili paste)

• 1 tbsp gochugaru (chili flakes) — optional

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tsp minced garlic

• 3 cups water or instant stock

Toppings (optional but recommended)

• 1 slice cheese

• Spring onions

• Baked beans (¼ cup)

These ingredients are similar to what is served in the Best Food Resturents in Singapore, ensuring your homemade version tastes authentic and satisfying.

Quick and Tasty Korean Army Stew Recipe

Here’s a fast, simple method that gives you big flavour with little effort.

Step 1: Arrange the Ingredients in a Pot

Place spam, sausages, mushrooms, tofu, onion, and kimchi neatly in a shallow pot.
This step saves time later and helps flavour spread evenly.

Step 2: Add the Seasoning

Sprinkle or spoon the following directly into the center:

• Gochujang

• Gochugaru

• Soy sauce

• Garlic

This creates the flavour base that gives Army Stew its signature spicy broth.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Add 3 cups of water or instant stock.
Stock enhances the flavour—similar to versions found in the Best Food Resturents in Singapore—but water works fine too.

Step 4: Bring to a Boil

Turn on the heat and let the stew boil for about 5–7 minutes.
You’ll notice the broth turning bright red and fragrant.

Step 5: Add Noodles and Cheese

Once bubbling, add:

• Instant noodles

• A slice of cheese

The cheese melts and adds creaminess, making the stew richer and more comforting.

Step 6: Simmer and Serve

Let the stew simmer for a few more minutes until the noodles soften.
Top with spring onions and enjoy immediately.

This quick method keeps cooking time low while delivering full, satisfying flavour—just like the bowls served at some of the Best Food Resturents in Singapore.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

Fast Prep

Most ingredients require no chopping—just open, slice, and drop into the pot.

Flexible Ingredients

Swap or skip items depending on what you have at home.

One-Pot Meal

The whole dish cooks in a single pot, making cleanup effortless.

Comforting & Filling

Perfect for after a long day when you need something warm and satisfying.

Tips to Make Your Korean Army Stew Even Better

Use Instant Stock Cubes

If you don’t have broth, stock cubes boost the flavour quickly.

Add Cheese Last

Cheese melts better when added after the noodles.

Use Well-Fermented Kimchi

Older kimchi brings deeper, richer flavour.

Don’t Overcook the Noodles

They’re best when slightly firm for better texture.

Add More Noodles for Groups

More noodles + same broth = budget-friendly and filling.

These tips help your stew match the quality of dishes served in the Best Food Resturents in Singapore.

Quick Variations You Can Try

Cheesy Budae Jjigae

Add shredded mozzarella for a creamy, stretchy topping.

Extra Spicy Version

Add chili padi or extra gochugaru.

Vegetarian Quick Version

Skip spam and sausages, add tofu and mushrooms instead.

Instant Pot Version

Cook everything together for 8 minutes—extra fast and effortless.

Ramen-Lover’s Stew

Add two noodle packs and more broth.

Serving Ideas for a Fast Meal

Even on busy days, you can elevate your meal with:

Steamed Rice

Helps balance the rich broth.

Quick Side Dishes

Kimchi, pickled radish, or fried dumplings (store-bought heat-ups work fine).

Simple Drinks

Barley tea, soda, or iced lemon tea pair well with the spicy stew.

These simple additions make your home meal feel like something from the Best Food Resturents in Singapore.

Why Korean Army Stew Remains a Favourite in Singapore

Singaporeans love Budae Jjigae because:

• It’s rich and comforting

• It’s perfect for sharing

• It’s bold and spicy

• It’s easy to customise

• It’s budget-friendly

Whether you cook it at home or order from the Best Food Resturents in Singapore, Korean Army Stew continues to be a top comfort dish for busy lifestyles.

Conclusion

When you’re short on time but craving something warm, hearty, and flavorful, a Quick and Tasty Korean Army Stew is the perfect solution. With simple ingredients, a one-pot method, and a cooking time of under 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy days. It delivers the same delicious comfort you’d find in the Best Food Resturents in Singapore, all from the convenience of your kitchen.