What Is Ssamjang? A Guide to This Korean Dipping Sauce
By Lisa Bot | Published 11 October 2024
What Is Ssamjang?
Ssamjang is a popular Korean dipping sauce made from a blend of fermented soybean paste (doenjang) and chilli paste (gochujang). It’s a thick, savoury, and slightly spicy condiment that’s commonly served with Korean BBQ.
Ssamjang literally means "wrap sauce," as it's typically used in ssam, which are Korean lettuce wraps filled with grilled meat, rice, and vegetables.
Ingredients in Ssamjang
The main ingredients in ssamjang are doenjang, gochujang, garlic, green onions, sesame oil, and sesame seeds.
Doenjang gives it a deep, umami flavour, while gochujang adds a touch of sweetness and heat. The garlic and green onions add sharpness, and the sesame oil and seeds provide a nutty, aromatic finish.
Some variations of ssamjang might include additional ingredients like chopped nuts, tofu, or even seafood. These variations offer different textures and flavours, but the base ingredients remain the same.
Homemade Ssamjang Recipe
Making ssamjang at home is quite simple. You only need a few ingredients and about five minutes to prepare it. Here’s a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup doenjang (Korean fermented soybean paste)
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chilli paste)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional for a sweeter taste)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the doenjang and gochujang.
- Add the minced garlic, chopped green onions, and sesame oil.
- Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined.
- If you prefer a sweeter ssamjang, add honey or sugar.
- Sprinkle the sesame seeds on top before serving.
Ssamjang can be used immediately or stored in the fridge for up to two weeks. The flavour will intensify the longer it sits, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Different Types of Ssamjang
While the basic recipe for ssamjang is quite common, there are several variations you might encounter:
- Nut Ssamjang: This version includes ground nuts like walnuts or sunflower seeds, adding a crunchy texture.
- Spicy Ssamjang: For those who like more heat, extra gochujang or fresh chilli peppers can be added.
- Tofu Ssamjang: Soft tofu is sometimes mixed in to create a lighter, creamier texture.
Each variation brings something unique to the table, and you can experiment with different ingredients to find the one you like best.
How to Use Ssamjang
Ssamjang is most commonly used as a dipping sauce for Korean BBQ, particularly for grilled meats like pork belly (samgyeopsal) or beef short ribs (galbi). Here’s how you can use ssamjang in your meals:
- With Lettuce Wraps (Ssam): Place a piece of grilled meat on a lettuce leaf, add a bit of rice, a dollop of ssamjang, and wrap it all up. It’s a perfect bite-sized package full of flavour.
- As a Vegetable Dip: Ssamjang pairs well with raw vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers. The rich, savoury taste complements the freshness of the veggies.
- With Grilled Vegetables: If you’re having a vegetarian meal, try dipping grilled vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus in ssamjang.
- In Soups and Stews: Ssamjang can also be stirred into Korean soups and stews for an extra burst of flavour. It works well in doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew) or gochujang jjigae (chilli paste stew).
Where to Buy Ssamjang
You can find ssamjang in most Korean or Asian grocery stores. It’s usually sold in small tubs in the condiment section, often near the doenjang and gochujang. Popular brands include Sempio and Haechandle, which both offer high-quality ssamjang with slightly different flavour profiles.
If you prefer to shop online, ssamjang is available on major online retailers like Amazon. Just be sure to check the ingredients list if you have dietary preferences, as some store-bought versions might contain additives like MSG or corn syrup.
Nutritional Information
Ssamjang is made from fermented ingredients, so it has some health benefits. Fermented foods like doenjang and gochujang are good for digestion and contain beneficial probiotics. They’re also rich in vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and iron.
However, ssamjang is also high in sodium, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation. A little goes a long way, and even a small amount can add a lot of flavour to your meal.
Storing Ssamjang
If you’ve made ssamjang at home or bought a pre-made version, it’s important to store it properly to keep it fresh. Homemade ssamjang should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about two weeks, but the flavour is best in the first few days after making it.
For store-bought ssamjang, follow the storage instructions on the packaging. Unopened tubs can usually be kept at room temperature, but once opened, they should be refrigerated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ssamjang Spicy?
Ssamjang has a mild to medium level of spiciness.
The heat mainly comes from the gochujang, but it’s balanced by the other ingredients. If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the amount of gochujang or leave out any additional chilli.
Can I Substitute Ssamjang With Other Sauces?
While there’s no exact substitute for ssamjang, you can create a similar flavour by mixing miso paste with a bit of chilli paste and sesame oil. This won’t be the same, but it can work in a pinch if you can’t find ssamjang.
How Long Does Ssamjang Last?
Homemade ssamjang lasts about two weeks in the fridge, while store-bought versions can last longer depending on the preservatives used. Always check the expiration date on store-bought products.
Final Thoughts
Ssamjang is a versatile and flavourful condiment that adds a special touch to many Korean dishes. Whether you’re dipping grilled meats, fresh vegetables, or adding it to soups, ssamjang brings a rich, umami-packed flavour that’s hard to beat.
If you haven’t tried it yet, give it a go next time you’re having Korean BBQ or looking to spice up your meals at home.
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