What's in it
Ham, sausage, Spam, baked beans, kimchi, ramyeon noodles, cheese.
More about Budae Jjigae
Uijeongbu, north of Seoul and close to US army bases, is the town most linked with budae jjigae and has a whole street of budae jjigae restaurants. The pot arrives with the ingredients arranged raw and boils at your table. Add the instant noodles near the end so they do not go soft, and let the slice of cheese melt into the broth.
Good to know
Ramyeon noodles (사리) are usually added at the table.
More ramyeon
Budae jjigae is one of the classic ramyeon combinations — see more in the ramyeon guide.
Special diets and allergies
- Vegetarian: no — pork and beef are part of the dish.
- Vegan: no — contains dairy.
- Pork: contains pork.
- Allergens: Wheat / gluten, Soy, Milk.
Recipes vary between restaurants. If an ingredient matters to you, ask before you order — or show a diet card.
Quick answers
What is Budae Jjigae?
Spicy stew of ham, sausage, Spam, baked beans, kimchi and instant noodles, born from US army surplus food after the Korean War. "Budae" means army base.
Is Budae Jjigae spicy?
Yes — it is spicy. You can ask for less spice: 덜 맵게 해 주세요 (deol maepge hae juseyo).
Is Budae Jjigae vegetarian?
No — pork and beef are part of the dish.
Does Budae Jjigae contain pork?
Yes — it contains pork.
Is Budae Jjigae gluten-free?
No — it usually contains wheat (gluten). Recipes vary, so ask if you need to avoid it.
What is Budae Jjigae called in Korean?
부대찌개, pronounced “budaejjigae”.