What's in it
Soybean paste, chili paste, garlic, sesame.
More about Ssamjang
Most restaurants make their own. Besides lettuce wraps, it is eaten with raw garlic, green chili and cucumber sticks.
Special diets and allergies
- Vegetarian: usually yes.
- Vegan: possibly — check for egg, dairy and honey.
- Allergens: Wheat / gluten, Soy, Sesame.
Recipes vary between restaurants. If an ingredient matters to you, ask before you order — or show a diet card.
Quick answers
What is Ssamjang?
Thick dip of soybean paste and chili paste with garlic and sesame — dab it on your lettuce wraps.
Is Ssamjang spicy?
Only mildly — it has a little heat.
Is Ssamjang vegetarian?
Usually yes.
Is Ssamjang gluten-free?
No — it usually contains wheat (gluten). Recipes vary, so ask if you need to avoid it.
What is Ssamjang called in Korean?
쌈장, pronounced “ssamjang”.