If you’re searching for ramen in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, there’s one comforting, crowd-pleasing bowl you have to try: budae jjigae—Korea’s legendary “army stew.” At Mukbang Shows Restaurant, we serve a halal, deeply flavorful version of this classic both dine-in and for delivery on Talabat, and it’s quickly become a guest favorite for its rich broth, springy noodles, and dramatic cheese pull.
In this guide, you’ll learn what budae jjigae is, how it became a staple of Korean comfort food, how our halal take is crafted for the UAE, and the best places to enjoy it—near Dubai World Trade Centre, in Deira, and across Abu Dhabi. By the end, you’ll know exactly why this dish deserves a prime spot on your ramen bucket list.
🇰🇷 What Is Budae Jjigae? (And Why Ramen Lovers Adore It) 🍲
Budae jjigae (부대찌개), literally “army base stew,” is a hearty Korean hotpot that combines a spicy, savory broth with ramyeon (Korean instant noodles) and a variety of toppings. Expect a joyful mix of kimchi, tofu, scallions, beans, sliced meats, and melted cheese—all simmered together so every ingredient picks up that unmistakable gochujang-forward depth.
For ramen fans, budae jjigae hits all the right notes:
- Bold broth with layers of chili, garlic, and fermented tang from kimchi.
- Bouncy noodles (ramyeon) that soak up flavor without getting soggy.
- Toppings galore—from tofu to cheese to vegetables—that keep each bite different.
- Sharing style: it’s a convivial, table-center dish, great for groups or a cozy solo treat.
🕰️ A Brief History: From Post-War Ingenuity to Global Icon
Budae jjigae was born out of resourcefulness after the Korean War (1950s). Food scarcity pushed home cooks and street vendors to get creative with ingredients accessible near U.S. military bases—think canned beans, sausages, and processed cheese—then fuse them with foundational Korean flavors like gochujang (chili paste), gochugaru (chili flakes), garlic, and kimchi.
A few historical touchpoints that shaped the dish:
- Uijeongbu Roots: Many food historians point to Uijeongbu, north of Seoul, as a cradle of budae jjigae culture, where cooks simmered surplus Western items with kimchi and peppers.
- Kimchi + Cheese Diplomacy: The genius was not just “mixing East and West,” but harmonizing them—cheese for creaminess, kimchi for brightness, and chilis for heat.
- From Necessity to Nostalgia: What began as necessity became nostalgia food—beloved by students, night-owls, and families. Today, it’s an iconic comfort classic, found in humble eateries and trend-forward restaurants alike.
🕌 Our UAE Halal Take: Rich, Respectful, and Utterly Comforting
At Mukbang Shows Restaurant, we prepare a halal version of budae jjigae that preserves the spirit of the dish while aligning with UAE dining preferences:
- Halal proteins such as beef slices and halal sausages replace any pork-based items found in some traditional recipes.
- Kimchi, gochujang, and aromatic stock build a balanced, crave-worthy heat (we can make it mild to hot—just ask).
- Tofu, scallions, and beans add texture and sweetness.
- Melted cheese brings the iconic creaminess that budae jjigae lovers expect.
- Ramyeon noodles (Korean ramen) go in at the end for perfect spring and bite.
It’s hearty, shareable, and absolutely Instagram-worthy—especially when you lift the noodles and the cheese stretches across the bowl.
📍 Where to Eat Ramen (Budae Jjigae) with Us in the UAE
We serve budae jjigae dine-in at our locations and also for delivery on Talabat. Visit us where it’s most convenient:
- Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC):
Love Mukbang Korean BBQ and Seafood Restaurant – Dubai World Trade Centre
Opposite DWTC Metro Station on Sheikh Zayed Rd.
Tel: +971 50 158 9433 - Deira, Dubai:
Mukbang Shows Restaurant – Deira Dubai (near Bus Station, Al Ittihad Rd – Port Saeed)
Tel: +971 4 886 4494 - Electra, Abu Dhabi:
Mukbang Shows Restaurant – Electra Branch (behind City Seasons Hotel)
Tel: +971 2 564 0446 - Muroor, Abu Dhabi:
Mukbang Shows Restaurant – Muroor Branch (opposite Emirates Grand Market)
Tel: +971 50 158 9433
Prefer staying in? Order on Talabat—just search for “Mukbang Shows Restaurant” in Dubai or Abu Dhabi and look for Budae Jjigae (Army Stew) on the menu.
🧪 Flavor Breakdown: Why This Bowl Feels So Satisfying
Budae jjigae works because it layers contrasts:
- Spicy + Tangy: Gochujang and kimchi create a base that is both warming and bright.
- Silky + Springy: Melted cheese and tofu lend silkiness, while ramyeon brings springy chew.
- Savory + Sweet: Beans and aromatics balance the chili heat with gentle sweetness.
- Hearty + Fresh: Robust toppings sit alongside fresh scallions and crunch from kimchi on the side.
Ask our team to tune the spice level—from mild for comfort to fiery for spice lovers.
🔥 How We Serve It: Dine-In Theater vs. Talabat Convenience
Dine-In Experience
- Served piping hot in a pot so it continues simmering at the table.
- The noodle-lift moment is perfect for photos—hello, cheese pull.
- Enjoy it with our banchan (Korean side dishes) and pair with steamed rice to balance the heat.
Talabat Delivery
- We carefully package broth and noodles to preserve texture.
- Reheat the broth gently, add noodles right before eating, and stir for a perfect bite.
- Love extra cheese? Add your own slice on top and let the steam do the melting.
🍜 Ramen vs. Ramyeon vs. Budae Jjigae: Know the Differences
- Japanese ramen often features long-simmered broths (tonkotsu, shoyu, miso) and fresh wheat noodles.
- Korean ramyeon typically means instant-style noodles with a spicy soup base—quick, bold, and comforting.
- Budae jjigae is a stew that often includes ramyeon—so think of it as ramen living inside a rich hotpot, with cheese and hearty mix-ins.
For anyone Googling “ramen near me” in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, budae jjigae is a must-try variant that delivers ramen satisfaction with a uniquely Korean hotpot personality.
🧀 Toppings Guide: Customize Your Bowl Like a Pro
Mix and match—here’s how our guests love to tailor their stew:
- More Cheese: For the creamiest, mellow heat.
- Extra Kimchi: To crank up tang and crunch.
- Tofu Lover’s Add-On: Silken tofu soaks up broth beautifully.
- Noodle-Forward: Ask for extra ramyeon if you like more slurp.
- Spice Boost: Request a gochugaru sprinkle or chili oil to finish.
Tip: Let the pot bubble for a minute so the flavors mingle, then stir gently and go for the noodle lift. It’s a small ritual that makes a big difference.
🥢 How to Enjoy Budae Jjigae (Step-by-Step)
- Start with the broth. Take a small sip to feel the base heat and savoriness.
- Go for the noodles. Lift gently and let excess broth drip—watch that cheese stretch.
- Add a piece of tofu + kimchi. You’ll get creamy, spicy, tangy in one bite.
- Balance with rice. A spoonful of steamed rice resets your palate so you can keep going.
- Share and repeat. Budae jjigae is social food—pass spoons, trade toppings, and keep the pot bubbling.
🧭 Best Places to Eat Ramen in Dubai & Abu Dhabi (Local Tips)
- Near DWTC / DIFC / Sheikh Zayed Road: Our Love Mukbang (DWTC) branch is right by the Metro, perfect for a quick ramen fix before events or after work.
- Deira / Port Saeed / City Centre Deira area: Pop into our Deira location—easy access if you’re shopping or flying through DXB.
- Electra & Muroor (Abu Dhabi): If you’re near Al Danah or downtown Abu Dhabi, our Electra and Muroor branches make it simple to grab a comforting stew.
- At home or the office: Talabat delivery brings the stew to you—ideal for family nights or team lunches.
Searching “ramen in Dubai,” “ramen Abu Dhabi,” or “budae jjigae UAE”? You’re exactly the guest this dish was made for.
🥬 Pairings We Recommend
- Kimchi & Banchan: Bright crunch to contrast the stew.
- Tteokbokki (Rice Cakes): For spice lovers who want a chewy snack on the side.
- Korean Fried Chicken: Crispy heat pairs beautifully with creamy, cheesy stew.
- Barley Tea or Soft Drinks: Cool, clean sips between spicy bites.
🙋♀️ FAQ: Ramen & Budae Jjigae in the UAE
Is budae jjigae halal at Mukbang Shows?
Yes—our version is 100% halal, made with halal meats and ingredients aligned to UAE preferences.
How spicy is it?
We can make it mild, medium, or hot. Just tell our team or add a note in your Talabat order.
Can I order it on Talabat?
Absolutely. Open Talabat, search “Mukbang Shows Restaurant” in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, and select Budae Jjigae (Army Stew).
Is budae jjigae considered ramen?
It’s a stew that often includes ramyeon noodles. So, it scratches the ramen itch with a hotpot twist.
What’s that stretchy cheese I see in videos?
That’s part of the classic budae jjigae experience—melting cheese adds creaminess and tames the chili heat for a perfectly balanced bite.
📸 Pro Tip for Foodies (and Google!)
When you take that noodle-lift photo or video, tag it with #ramenDubai #ramenAbuDhabi #budaejjigae #KoreanFoodUAE and mention Mukbang Shows Restaurant. If you post on Google Maps, even better—your photos help other ramen lovers find us.
✅ Ready to Try It?
Whether you’re a lifelong ramen fan or discovering Korean hotpots for the first time, budae jjigae is a bowl you’ll come back to—rich, cozy, and endlessly satisfying.
- Dine in:
- Dubai – DWTC (Love Mukbang) | Opposite DWTC Metro | Tel: +971 50 158 9433
- Dubai – Deira | Al Ittihad Rd – Port Saeed | Tel: +971 4 886 4494
- Abu Dhabi – Electra | Behind City Seasons Hotel | Tel: +971 2 564 0446
- Abu Dhabi – Muroor | Opp. Emirates Grand Market | Tel: +971 50 158 9433
- Order on Talabat: Search “Mukbang Shows Restaurant” (Dubai or Abu Dhabi) and tap Budae Jjigae (Army Stew).
Bring your appetite. We’ll bring the bubbling pot, springy noodles, and that legendary cheese pull. See you at Mukbang Shows!
