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An Essential Korean Condiment 

쌈장

This traditional Korean dipping sauce is a must-have for any barbecue spread, adding a punch of umami goodness to every bite. Get ready to learn how to make your own batch of this delicious ssamjang right at home!

Ssamjang

Ssamjang is a savory and complex Korean sauce that's all about balance. It's a blend of fermented soybean paste, spicy gochujang, nutty sesame oil, garlic, and a touch of sweetness from sugar or honey. The result? A flavor explosion that hits all the right notes on your taste buds.

It is commonly used to accompany ssam style meals, but it can also be paired with grilled, boiled, or stir-fried meats of nearly any cuisine (ssamjang makes an excellent steak sauce). Ssamjang can be sweet and mild or salty and hot, thin almost liquid or thick almost solid.

The beauty of ssamjang lies in its ability to elevate simple ingredients into something extraordinary. With just a dollop of this umami-packed sauce, you can transform an ordinary meal into a culinary masterpiece that will have your taste buds singing with delight.

Here is a basic version to get you started. Adjust the quantities and ingredients until you reach the taste and texture you prefer.

Ingredients
2 tablespoons doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
1/2 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste) **
1 each fresh red chili pepper
1 each fresh green chili pepper
4 cloves garlic
2 each green/spring onion
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
2 teaspoons maesil extract
water as needed

Optional
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon rice wine

Substitutes/Additions
Asian chives for green onions
Shallots for green onions
Green or young garlic (similar in appearance to green onions)
coarse ground black pepper

Meal Suggestion
Any Korean grilled or stir fried meat dish like Bulgogi
4 bunches red leaf lettuce (or other large leaf vegetable)
"sticky" rice
6 cloves garlic
5 fresh jalapeño peppers

Directions
Finely chop (mince) the garlic, chili peppers, and green onion.
In a small mixing bowl, add all Ssam jang ingredients and mix well.
Add a small amount of water if needed to maintain a mixable paste.
Cover and let stand at room temperature for 1 hour.
Refrigerate until use.

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With just a few simple steps and basic ingredients, you can whip up a delicious batch of ssamjang at home. Whether you're hosting a BBQ party or simply craving some authentic Korean flavors, this versatile condiment is sure to elevate your dining experience.

Ssamjang can be used in many different settings, not just Korean.  Here are a few ideas:

Steak Sauce
Salad Dressing
Dipping Sauce for Vegetables or Bread
Marinade for Grilled Meats or Tofu
Spread for Sandwiches or Wraps

Enjoy your homemade ssamjang with your favorite dishes and adjust the spiciness to your liking by adding more or less chili peppers. This flavorful sauce will add a unique and delicious touch to any meal. 

Give this recipe a try and impress your guests with your homemade ssamjang!