Homemade Umami-Rich Ssamjang
The Ultimate Ssamjang Recipe to Elevate Your Grilled Meats
Discover how to make fresh, flavorful ssamjang at home instead of relying on store-bought options. Homemade ssamjang boasts superior umami and depth, making it the perfect accompaniment for any grilled meat dish. It’s a delightful condiment that will surely whet your appetite. Try this easy recipe today for a healthy and delicious ssamjang!
Core Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp Doenjang (fermented soybean paste)
- 1/2 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 Tbsp Minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp Oligodang (corn syrup) or honey
- 1 Tbsp Sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Cheongyang chili pepper, finely minced
- 1/3 Green onion, finely chopped
- 1 Tbsp Toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by adding a generous tablespoon of doenjang, the foundation of our ssamjang’s savory flavor, to a mixing bowl.
Step 2
Next, add half the amount of doenjang in gochujang (1/2 Tbsp) to introduce a pleasant spicy kick and umami. This ratio creates a beautiful balance.
Step 3
For an aromatic boost, stir in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Its pungent flavor helps cut through richness.
Step 4
Add 1 tablespoon of oligodang (or honey, if preferred) for a touch of sweetness. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Step 5
Pour in 1 tablespoon of sesame oil for a nutty aroma and rich flavor. The fragrant sesame oil will make your ssamjang exceptionally delicious.
Step 6
If you enjoy a bit more heat, add 1 tablespoon of gochugaru (chili flakes). Feel free to reduce or omit this if you prefer a milder taste, especially if serving to children.
Step 7
For a fresh, spicy note, finely mince one Cheongyang chili pepper (seeds removed) and add it to the mix. Its sharp heat complements fatty meats perfectly.
Step 8
Similarly, add 1/3 of a green onion, finely chopped, for a refreshing crunch and aromatic zest.
Step 9
Finally, sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds for texture and nutty flavor. Use a spoon or spatula to mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
Step 10
Voila! Your delicious homemade ssamjang is ready! The harmony of natural flavors and perfectly balanced seasonings is outstanding. Enjoy this with freshly cooked rice, crisp lettuce wraps, and your favorite grilled meats. It’s so easy to make, you’ll want to prepare it often!
