The Ultimate Guide to Jjajangmyeon, Chapagetti, and Jjapaguri (Ram-don)
Korean cuisine is filled with comfort foods, but few dishes have gained as much global attention as Jjajangmyeon. Known for its rich black bean sauce and chewy noodles, this dish has a fascinating history that traces back to Chinese immigrants in Korea. Over time, it has evolved into a staple comfort food, inspiring instant noodle variations like Chapagetti and even the viral dish Jjapaguri (also called Ram-don), popularized worldwide by the Oscar-winning film Parasite.
The History of Jjajangmyeon
Jjajangmyeon originated from Chinese-style black bean noodles, brought to Korea by Chinese immigrants in the early 20th century. The dish combines thick wheat noodles with a savory sauce made from fermented black soybean paste, diced pork, and vegetables. Over time, Koreans adapted the recipe, creating a sweeter, thicker sauce that became beloved in Korean households.
Today, Jjajangmyeon is not only a popular restaurant dish but also a comfort food associated with birthdays, casual gatherings, and delivery culture.
Chapagetti: Instant Jjajangmyeon
Chapagetti is an instant noodle version of traditional Jjajangmyeon, introduced by Nongshim in 1984. Unlike regular instant noodles, Chapagetti comes with dehydrated black bean sauce and vegetable flakes, making it easy to cook in under 5 minutes. Its popularity skyrocketed because it allows anyone to enjoy homemade-style Jjajangmyeon instantly.
Tips for the best Chapagetti:
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Cook noodles separately for better texture
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Add fresh vegetables or meat to enhance flavor
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Simmer sauce gently to avoid burning the black bean paste
Jjapaguri (Ram-don): From Parasite to Global Fame
The 2019 film Parasite introduced the world to Jjapaguri, a creative combination of two instant noodles: Chapagetti and Neoguri. In the movie, the dish is elevated with premium beef, turning a humble instant noodle snack into a luxurious meal.
How to Make Jjapaguri (Ram-don)
Ingredients:
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1 pack Chapagetti
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1 pack Neoguri
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100–150g beef (ribeye or sirloin recommended)
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Optional: green onions, sesame oil
Instructions:
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Boil noodles in separate water until al dente, then drain.
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Cook beef in a pan until lightly seared.
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Mix Chapagetti and Neoguri sauces together in a pan with the cooked noodles.
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Add beef and gently toss.
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Serve immediately, optionally garnished with green onions or sesame oil.
This dish combines the savory sweetness of black bean sauce with the spicy seafood flavor of Neoguri, creating a rich, memorable taste that’s both comforting and cinematic.
Conclusion
From traditional Jjajangmyeon to instant Chapagetti and the globally famous Jjapaguri, Korean noodles offer a world of flavors. Whether you want a quick, convenient meal or a gourmet twist inspired by cinema, these noodles let you enjoy the taste of Korea at home.
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