If you search the Internet for recommendations of Korean foods, 부대찌개 (buddae jiggae) or army stew will most likely be a part of the top ten list. It is one of the most popular dish in the country that is loved by many – both locals and foreigners alike.

You might be thinking, why is it called an army stew? Is it because it is the soldiers’ favourite food? Or is it invented by people in the army? The answer is no.

When the Korean War ended, US army bases still remained in cities like Uijeongbu, Dongducheon, Yangju and Pyeongtaek just in case an attack breaks out again.

During this period, food remained scarce in the country. American soldiers ate sausages and canned luncheon meat to gain protein. Koreans then got the leftovers and expired products, known as “army based meat”, in order to prevent it from going to waste.

Over time, Koreans also started adding chilli sauce, spices, kimchi and broth to add flavour, making it a stew or jiggae. Because the main ingredients came from the army and it is now in a form of soup, it got the name “army stew”.

Preparing this dish is easy since the basic components are already in the kitchen most of the time. All you need is kimchi, hotdogs or sausages, bacon, spam, tofu, onion, scallions, mushrooms, ramyeon, broth (can be anchovy, beef or chicken depending on your preference) as well as cheese (optional).

Another variation of this dish is called the “Johnson soup” or Johnsontang (존슨탕). It was named after US President Lyndon Johnson who had it during his visit in South Korea in the year 1966.

This version still uses ham, hotdogs and chili sauce just like the original one. However, to cater to a more American taste, it does not include kimchi and instant noodles. For broth, they use beef bones.

Over the years, the army stew has continued to evolve. Now, more ingredients can be added including seafood like shrimp and clams!

And if you’re wondering how you can try this famed army stew then look no further! Just a few steps away from Kovan MRT is Two Cranes, a café situated at Hougang Street 21 serving a bunch of delicious Korean dishes!

For only $14.90, you’ll get to taste their buddae jiggae cooked using their rich spicy homemade broth mixed with a handful of ingredients like spicy marinated chicken, veggies and sausages!

Of course, Two Cranes also offer teas, lattes, coffee and bingsu to satisfy your sweet tooth after this hearty meal. Check out their whole menu here.

Too lazy to go out and want to learn how to make 부대찌개 at home instead? Watch this tutorial video below: