This recipe is a simple Korean-style spicy potato stew made with Spam, potatoes, kimchi, and gochujang. There are many versions of jjageuli in Korea, but the most popular home-style version focuses on a thick, rich broth with soft potatoes and savory Spam.
One of the biggest secrets of this recipe is crushing the Spam instead of slicing it. As it cooks, the flavor spreads into the broth, creating a deeper and richer taste that pairs perfectly with rice.
โฑ๏ธ Recipe Overview
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Korean
Dish Type: Stew
Keyword: Spam Potato Jjageuli, Korean Potato Stew, Gochujang Stew
๐ฅ Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 can Spam (200 g)
- 3 potatoes (about 130 g)
- 80 g kimchi
- 110 g tofu
- 55 g onion
- 25 g green onion
- 1 shiitake mushroom
Seasoning
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 0.8 tbsp Korean chili flakes
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 2.5 tbsp soup soy sauce
Broth
- 600 ml water
๐ช Kitchen Tools
- Pot
- Knife and cutting board
- Kitchen scissors
- Cooking spoon
๐ฉโ๐ณ Step-by-Step Instructions (7 Steps)
1๏ธโฃ Prepare the Vegetables
Peel the potatoes and slice them into medium-thick pieces. Slice onion thinly and cut shiitake mushrooms into strips.
2๏ธโฃ Cut the Remaining Ingredients
Cut kimchi into bite-sized pieces. Cube the tofu and finely slice the green onion.
3๏ธโฃ Layer the Ingredients
Place potatoes, onion, mushrooms, and kimchi into a pot.
4๏ธโฃ Crush and Add the Spam
Using gloved hands or a spoon, crush the Spam directly into the pot instead of slicing it. This helps the savory flavor spread throughout the stew.
5๏ธโฃ Add the Seasoning
Add gochujang, chili flakes, soy sauce, and minced garlic evenly over the ingredients.
6๏ธโฃ Add Water and Simmer
Pour in water and bring to a boil over high heat. Stir well to dissolve the gochujang. Remove foam from the surface and simmer over medium heat for about 5โ6 minutes.
7๏ธโฃ Finish with Tofu and Green Onion
Add tofu and green onion, then simmer briefly until everything is fully cooked and the broth thickens slightly.
๐ก Tips for the Best Spam Potato Jjageuli
- Crushing Spam creates a richer broth than slicing it.
- Potatoes naturally thicken the stew as they cook.
- A small amount of kimchi adds acidity and balance.
- Simmer slowly after boiling for deeper flavor.
๐ง Storage
Store refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
โ FAQ
Why crush the Spam instead of slicing it?
Crushed Spam melts slightly into the broth, giving the stew a richer and deeper flavor.
Can I add meat?
Yes. Pork or beef can be added for a heartier version.
Is kimchi necessary?
No, but a small amount adds balance and reduces heaviness.
How spicy is this stew?
It has a mild-to-medium Korean spicy flavor. Adjust chili flakes to taste.
๐ Conclusion
Spam potato jjageuli is one of the easiest Korean comfort stews you can make at home.
Simple ingredients, rich broth, soft potatoes, and savory Spam come together in one pot, making it perfect for busy days and comforting meals with rice.
[K-Food]๐ฒ Pork Kimchi Stew (Kimchi Jjigae Recipe 7-Step Method)
[K-Food] ๐ฅ Easy Korean Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim Recipe) โ 6Steps