Hapja

Hapja is a term that can refer to several things, primarily within the context of traditional Korean culture and cuisine. Most commonly, it denotes a type of Korean stew or soup, similar to jjigae. These hapja dishes are typically hearty, flavorful, and often served as a main course with rice. Ingredients can vary widely, including vegetables, meats such as beef or pork, seafood, tofu, and various seasonings like gochujang (Korean chili paste) and doenjang (fermented soybean paste). The preparation often involves simmering these ingredients together in a flavorful broth.

Beyond its culinary meaning, "hapja" can also be associated with specific Korean regional dialects or historical terms, though these are less frequently encountered in general discourse. The exact origin and evolution of the term are subjects of linguistic and cultural study. When encountered, understanding the context is key to deciphering whether it refers to a type of food or a different, more specialized meaning. In modern usage, the culinary interpretation is by far the most prevalent.