Doenjang, or bean paste, literally means “thick sauce” in Korean. It is made from fermented soybeans and salt, and is one of Korea’s most popular pantry items. Doenjang is the key condiment in making doenjang jjigae, a traditional Korean stew.

You could also enjoy it as a condiment with vegetables, as flavored seasoning or even as a dipping condiment. To make ssambap, Korean rice wrap, simply mix doenjang with garlic and sesame oil to make ssamjang sauce. Use a green leaf such as red leaf lettuce and add some rice, meat and ssamjang sauce on top!