Are you tired of serving the same old dips at your gatherings? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore the world of spicy ssamjang, a Korean condiment that adds depth and heat to any dish. Ssamjang is a versatile sauce made with gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sugar, which can be used as a marinade, a dipping sauce, or even an ingredient in recipes.
From grilled pork belly to spiced roasted carrots, we’ve got 18 deliciously spicy ssamjang recipes that will elevate your cooking game. Whether you’re a foodie looking for new flavors to try or a busy parent seeking quick and easy meal ideas, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Spicy Ssamjang Grilled Pork Belly
This Korean-inspired recipe brings together the sweetness of pork belly and the spiciness of gochujang, all wrapped up in a flavorful grilled package. Perfect for a bold and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp crushed black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the sliced pork belly to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the pork for 5-7 minutes per side, or until caramelized and cooked through.
5. Brush with sesame oil during the last minute of grilling. Sprinkle with black pepper before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Ssamjang Avocado Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and addictive dip that combines the richness of avocados, the spiciness of Korean ssamjang, and a hint of garlic. Serve it with your favorite dippers or use it as a topping for tacos and grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 2 tablespoons ssamjang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or crumbled Korean chili flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor.
2. Add the ssamjang, lime juice, and garlic to the blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and garnish with your choice of toppings (if using).
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and serve!
Garlicky Ssamjang Chicken Lettuce Wraps
This recipe combines the flavors of Korean ssamjang sauce with juicy chicken and crisp lettuce, all wrapped up in a delicious and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup ssamjang sauce (Korean dipping sauce)
– 2 cups chopped lettuce
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together minced garlic and ssamjang sauce.
3. Add the chicken to the bowl and toss until well coated with the garlicky ssamjang mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, prepare the lettuce wraps by placing chopped lettuce leaves on a plate.
7. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add to the lettuce leaves.
8. Top with green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean BBQ Ssamjang Beef Tacos
Korean BBQ Ssamjang Beef Tacos: A Twist on a Classic
This unique fusion dish combines the bold flavors of Korean BBQ with the familiarity of tacos, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (such as flank steak or skirt steak), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Ssamjang sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Kimchi slaw (store-bought or homemade), for serving
– Crispy kimchi bits (optional), for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the marinated beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by placing the grilled beef onto a warmed tortilla, followed by a dollop of Ssamjang sauce, some kimchi slaw, and crispy kimchi bits (if using).
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Ssamjang Glazed Grilled Shrimp
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this sweet and savory Korean-inspired recipe that combines the flavors of Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic. This Ssamjang Glazed Grilled Shrimp dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a backyard BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic.
3. Brush both sides of the shrimp with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush Ssamjang glaze all over the shrimp.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Spicy Ssamjang Tofu Bibimbap
This Korean-inspired dish combines the creamy spiciness of ssamjang with crispy tofu and a medley of colorful vegetables, all topped with a fried egg. A perfect blend of flavors and textures!
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce)
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, shredded carrots, diced bell peppers)
– 1/4 cup cooked white rice
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick pan with 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
2. In a small bowl, mix together ssamjang, Gochujang, and garlic.
3. In a separate pan, scramble the egg and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, mixed vegetables, and cooked tofu.
5. Drizzle the ssamjang mixture over the top and stir to combine.
6. Place the fried egg on top and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ssamjang Marinated Grilled Eggplant
Experience the sweet and savory flavors of Korea with this simple and delicious eggplant dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup Ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Ssamjang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, Gochujang, garlic, sugar, and black pepper.
2. Add the eggplant slices to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Remove the eggplant from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill the eggplant for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred.
6. Serve warm with additional Ssamjang for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Ssamjang Deviled Eggs
These deviled eggs get a bold boost from the creamy, spicy flavors of Korean ssamjang sauce. Perfect for a party or potluck, these deviled eggs are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mix together the yolks, mayonnaise, gochujang, soy sauce, and garlic powder until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (hard-boiling eggs)
Ssamjang Butter Corn on the Cob
Enjoy a sweet and savory twist on traditional grilled corn with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
• 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter each ear of corn, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
4. In a small bowl, mix together ssamjang and honey until smooth.
5. Brush the ssamjang-honey mixture evenly onto each ear of grilled corn.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional butter if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Spicy Ssamjang Stir-Fried Noodles
A flavorful and spicy take on traditional Korean noodles, this recipe combines the rich flavors of ssamjang with a hint of heat. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of noodles (preferably Korean-style rice noodles)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 cup of ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce)
– 1 teaspoon of Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the ssamjang and Gochujang. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Add the cooked noodles and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ssamjang Dipping Sauce for Dumplings
This iconic dipping sauce is a staple condiment in Korean cuisine, perfectly complementing the rich flavors of dumplings. With its savory and slightly sweet profile, Ssamjang adds an extra layer of delight to every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup soybean paste ( Chungang)
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine soybean paste, gochujang, rice vinegar, Gochugaru, garlic, and sugar.
2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready to use straight away.
Grilled Ssamjang Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your grilling game with this Korean-inspired recipe, featuring tender portobello mushrooms smothered in a sweet and spicy ssamjang sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced 1/2 inch thick
– 1/4 cup ssamjang sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together ssamjang sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Brush both sides of the mushroom slices with the ssamjang mixture.
4. Grill mushrooms for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ssamjang Honey Glazed Chicken Wings
Get ready to impress your friends with this sweet and savory twist on traditional chicken wings! Ssamjang, a Korean chili paste, adds depth of flavor to these sticky honey glazed wings.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup ssamjang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together ssamjang, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add chicken wings to the bowl and toss until coated with glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange chicken wings on the baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Ssamjang Cucumber Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional Korean cucumber salad, this Spicy Ssamjang Cucumber Salad adds a bold and spicy kick from the ssamjang sauce. Perfect for hot summer days or as a side dish to your favorite Korean BBQ dishes.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/2 cup ssamjang sauce (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili flakes)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber slices, ssamjang sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, Gochujang, and sugar.
2. Toss until cucumbers are evenly coated with the spicy sauce.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ssamjang Smashed Potatoes with Scallions
Experience the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with this addictive side dish, featuring crispy smashed potatoes topped with spicy ssamjang sauce and crunchy scallions.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1/4 cup ssamjang sauce (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wash and dry the potatoes. Poke some holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape.
3. Rub the potatoes with sesame oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
6. Smash each potato into rough chunks using a spatula or your hands.
7. Drizzle the ssamjang sauce over the smashed potatoes and sprinkle with chopped scallions.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Korean Ssamjang Beef Bulgogi Bowls
A flavorful and aromatic Korean-inspired dish, these bulgogi bowls feature tender beef short ribs marinated in a sweet and savory mixture of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil. Serve over a bed of fluffy rice with a side of kimchi for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef short ribs
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tsp sesame oil
– 1 cup rice
– Kimchi, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, gochugaru, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil to make the marinade.
2. Add beef short ribs to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove beef from marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Cook rice according to package instructions.
5. Serve beef over rice with a side of kimchi.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Ssamjang Spiced Roasted Carrots
Ssmjang Spiced Roasted Carrots: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic Vegetable Dish
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the bold flavors of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) and soy sauce, creating a deliciously complex roasted carrot dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochugaru, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
4. Spread the carrot mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ssamjang Mayo Dip for French Fries
A sweet and spicy twist on classic dip, Ssamjang Mayo is a popular Korean condiment that pairs perfectly with crispy French fries.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar until smooth.
2. Add the grated ginger and whisk until well combined.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled with French fries.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (chill)
Summary
Discover 18 mouth-watering Ssamjang recipes that will elevate your dip game! From classic Korean flavors to international twists, these spicy and savory dips are sure to impress. Try making Spicy Ssamjang Grilled Pork Belly or Creamy Ssamjang Avocado Dip for a unique flavor experience. Or, get creative with Garlicky Ssamjang Chicken Lettuce Wraps or Ssamjang Glazed Grilled Shrimp. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or sweet, there’s a Ssamjang recipe here to satisfy your cravings.