20 Spicy Ssamjang Recipes for Flavorful Dips

Carmen Eldridge

April 14, 2025

Are you ready to level up your snack game with a flavorful and spicy twist? Look no further than these 20 Spicy Ssamjang Recipes for Flavorful Dips! Ssamjang, a Korean condiment made from gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil, adds an explosive kick to any dish. From wraps and bowls to skewers and tacos, we’ve got you covered with these mouth-numbingly delicious recipes.

Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like Spicy Pork Belly Ssamjang Wraps or adventurous like Garlic Butter Shrimp Ssamjang Tacos, there’s a recipe on this list that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. And don’t worry if you’re not familiar with ssamjang – we’ll walk you through each recipe step-by-step, so even the most novice cooks can join in on the fun.

Get ready to ignite your taste buds and dive into these 20 Spicy Ssamjang Recipes for Flavorful Dips!

Spicy Pork Belly Ssamjang Wraps

Spicy Pork Belly Ssamjang Wraps
A Korean-inspired twist on traditional wraps, these Spicy Pork Belly Ssamjang Wraps combine tender pork belly with a spicy and sweet ssamjang sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup ssamjang sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 8-10 large lettuce leaves
– 1 cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup crispy kimchi slaw (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and garlic.
3. Add the pork belly strips to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Bake the pork belly in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Assemble the wraps by spreading a spoonful of ssamjang sauce on each lettuce leaf, followed by a few slices of pork belly, cucumber, and kimchi slaw (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Grilled Beef Ssamjang Lettuce Wraps

Grilled Beef Ssamjang Lettuce Wraps
A twist on traditional Korean-style lettuce wraps, this recipe combines the savory flavors of grilled beef and ssamjang (a spicy soy-ginger dipping sauce) with crisp, fresh lettuce. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 4 cups mixed lettuce leaves
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill beef strips for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, and grated ginger.
3. Assemble wraps by placing grilled beef onto lettuce leaves, then drizzling with ssamjang sauce.
4. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including grill time)

Crispy Tofu Ssamjang Bowls

Crispy Tofu Ssamjang Bowls
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with crispy tofu, savory ssamjang sauce, and fresh vegetables.

Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Ssamjang sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Chopped vegetables (green onions, bean sprouts, carrots, etc.)
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Toss tofu cubes in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tofu cubes in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
4. Remove fried tofu from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Assemble bowls by placing cooked rice or noodles at the bottom, followed by fried tofu, chopped vegetables, and a drizzle of ssamjang sauce.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Spicy Ssamjang Chicken Skewers

Spicy Ssamjang Chicken Skewers
Elevate your BBQ game with this bold and flavorful Korean-inspired dish. Spicy Ssamjang Chicken Skewers are a perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that will leave you craving for more.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce), store-bought or homemade
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together ssamjang, soy sauce, honey, Gochujang, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread 3-4 marinated chicken pieces onto each skewer.
5. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Korean BBQ Ssamjang Burgers

Korean BBQ Ssamjang Burgers
Elevate your burger game with the bold flavors of Korean BBQ and ssamjang, a sweet and savory dipping sauce. These juicy patties are slathered in a layer of spicy gochujang and topped with crispy kimchi slaw for a flavor combination that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients:

– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 oz ground beef
– 2 tbsp Gochujang
– 1/4 cup ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce)
– 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese, and pickled ginger for toppings

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Mix ground beef with Gochujang, salt, and pepper. Form into patties.
3. Grill patties for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Meanwhile, mix ssamjang with mayonnaise, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
5. Assemble burgers with kimchi slaw, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and pickled ginger on top.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Garlic Butter Shrimp Ssamjang Tacos

Garlic Butter Shrimp Ssamjang Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this Korean-Mexican fusion recipe, featuring succulent garlic butter shrimp smothered in a savory ssamjang sauce and wrapped in crispy tacos shells.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Gochujang, and lime juice.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing shrimp on a tortilla, drizzling with ssamjang sauce, and garnishing with green onions.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Grilled Eggplant with Ssamjang Glaze

Grilled Eggplant with Ssamjang Glaze
Elevate your eggplant game with this sweet and spicy Korean-inspired glaze, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressive gathering.

Ingredients:

– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush eggplant slices with sesame oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill eggplant for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together ssamjang, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic.
5. Brush the glaze evenly onto the grilled eggplant slices.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Spicy Ssamjang Deviled Eggs

Spicy Ssamjang Deviled Eggs
This recipe combines the creamy richness of deviled eggs with the bold, spicy flavors of Korean ssamjang. The result is a unique and addictive snack that’s perfect for parties or game days.

Ingredients:

– 6 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the egg whites in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
3. In a bowl, mash the yolks with a fork until they’re well broken up.
4. Add mayonnaise, mustard, gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the bowl. Mix until smooth.
5. Season the yolk mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Ssamjang Glazed Salmon

Ssamjang Glazed Salmon
This Korean-inspired dish brings together the sweet and savory flavors of ssamjang sauce with the richness of grilled salmon. The result is a succulent and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup ssamjang sauce (see below for recipe)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish

Ssamjang Sauce Recipe:

– 1/2 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ginger, grated

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together ssamjang sauce ingredients until smooth.
3. Brush salmon fillets with the ssamjang glaze on both sides.
4. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Korean Fried Cauliflower with Ssamjang Dip

Korean Fried Cauliflower with Ssamjang Dip
Get ready for a crispy, sweet, and savory twist on traditional fried cauliflower! This Korean-inspired recipe combines the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a must-try snack or side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Ssamjang dip (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dip cauliflower florets into the mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry cauliflower in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
5. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with sugar and soy sauce.
6. Serve hot with Ssamjang dip for dipping.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Enjoy your crispy Korean Fried Cauliflower with a sweet and savory Ssamjang dip!

Ssamjang Marinated Grilled Corn

Ssamjang Marinated Grilled Corn
Elevate your summer BBQ with this sweet and savory Korean-inspired Ssamjang Marinated Grilled Corn. The smoky sweetness of the corn pairs perfectly with the spicy, nutty flavors of the ssamjang marinade.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup ssamjang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together ssamjang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Add the corn to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred and tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Spicy Ssamjang Noodle Salad

Spicy Ssamjang Noodle Salad
This Korean-inspired salad combines chewy noodles with a spicy and savory ssamjang sauce, crunchy vegetables, and crispy fried shallots. Perfect as a quick lunch or dinner, it’s also a great side dish for your favorite Asian-style meals.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1/2 cup ssamjang sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 cups mixed greens (bean sprouts, carrots, cucumber, etc.)
– 1/4 cup crispy fried shallots
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for extra heat

Instructions:

1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together ssamjang sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Add the mixed greens, crispy fried shallots, and chopped green onions to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Add cooked noodles to the bowl and toss again to distribute the flavors evenly.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Korean Ssamjang Meatballs

Korean Ssamjang Meatballs
Experience the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with these juicy meatballs smothered in a savory ssamjang sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup ssamjang sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Cooking oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Heat cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the meatballs until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Serve hot with ssamjang sauce spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Ssamjang

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Ssamjang
Savor the earthy flavor of portobello mushrooms paired with the savory and slightly sweet Korean-inspired ssamjang sauce. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced into thick strips
– 1/2 cup ssamjang sauce (see note)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together ssamjang sauce and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the mushroom strips.
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 fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
7. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Ssamjang Stir-Fried Rice Cakes

Ssamjang Stir-Fried Rice Cakes
This Korean-inspired recipe combines chewy rice cakes with a savory and spicy ssamjang sauce, creating a flavorful and addictive snack or side dish. Perfect for a quick meal or party appetizer!

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rice cakes
– 2 tablespoons ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook rice cakes according to package instructions.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add sliced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
4. Add cooked rice cakes and ssamjang sauce; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until sauce is evenly coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds (if using).
7. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Spicy Ssamjang Tteokbokki

Spicy Ssamjang Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki is a beloved Korean street food, and this Spicy Ssamjang version adds an extra layer of flavor with the addition of ssamjang, a sweet and spicy sauce. This recipe serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

– 200g rice cakes (tteok)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons ssamjang (sweet and spicy sauce)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cook until softened.
2. Add rice cakes, water, gochujang, ssamjang, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds.

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Ssamjang Glazed Chicken Wings

Ssamjang Glazed Chicken Wings
This Korean-inspired recipe combines the bold flavors of ssamjang, a fermented soybean paste, with sweet and sticky glaze, creating an addictive snack perfect for game days or gatherings.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs chicken wings
– 1/4 cup ssamjang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together ssamjang, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the chicken wings and toss to coat evenly.
4. Dip the wings in cornstarch to coat, shaking off excess.
5. Fry the wings in hot oil (350°F/175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
6. Glaze the fried wings with the remaining sauce mixture and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until caramelized.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Korean Ssamjang Potato Salad

Korean Ssamjang Potato Salad
This potato salad gets a bold boost from the spicy and savory flavors of Korean ssamjang, adding an exciting dimension to this classic summer side dish.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together ssamjang, mayonnaise, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Add the cooled potatoes, green onions, and ginger to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including boiling time)

Spicy Ssamjang Dumpling Sauce

Spicy Ssamjang Dumpling Sauce
A flavorful and spicy condiment originating from Korean cuisine, this Ssamjang dumpling sauce is perfect for dipping your favorite potstickers or noodles. With a balance of sweet, sour, and fiery flavors, it’s sure to elevate your dining experience.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and Gochugaru until smooth.
2. Add garlic, brown sugar, and water to the bowl. Whisk until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Cooking Time: None required! This sauce is ready to use straight away.

Ssamjang Marinated Grilled Squid

Ssamjang Marinated Grilled Squid
This Korean-inspired recipe combines the tender sweetness of squid with the bold, savory flavor of ssamjang, a classic Korean dipping sauce. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cleaned squid tubes
– 1/4 cup ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together ssamjang, soy sauce, Gochujang, garlic, sesame oil, and sugar.
2. Add the squid tubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove the squid from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Grill the squid for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and cooked through.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Summary

Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 20 mouth-watering Ssamjang recipes! Ssamjang is a popular Korean dipping sauce made with gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, and sugar. These creative recipes take this savory condiment to new heights by pairing it with everything from grilled meats and vegetables to noodles and seafood. From spicy pork belly wraps to crispy tofu bowls, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re a Korean food newbie or an experienced eater, these Ssamjang recipes will elevate your mealtime game.

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