Wondering what to make with gochujang? Look no further for the ultimate list of spicy, savory gochujang recipes! Whether you just opened a new tub or need to scrape the bottom of one that’s nearly empty, these recipes will satisfy your craving for Korean flavor.
As a Korean American dietitian, I couldn’t be more excited to see gochujang in the spotlight. It’s one of the signature flavors of Korean cooking, a deliciously savory, spicy, slightly sweet paste that colors everything it touches a beautiful shade of red!
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What is Gochujang?
Gochujang is technically a sauce, made from the flakes of Korean red chili peppers, glutinous rice, soy beans, and salt. It’s easy to find in Korean markets or Asian grocery stores. You can get a spice level ranging from mild to hot. If you can’t find it at any local grocery stores, you can also shop online.
What does gochujang taste like? It’s spicy, yes. But not like a hot pepper sauce like sriracha or other types of hot sauce. That’s because the traditional way of making gochujang doesn’t use the pepper seeds, where a lot of the heat comes from.
Plus, the fermentation process gives it more depth, with a blended flavor that’s savory, a little bit smoky, and even some subtle sweetness all at the same time. I can never get enough umami flavor, so it’s no wonder I love gochujang so much!
Gochujang usually comes in a tub with a lid. This makes it easy to use a spoon to scoop or measure the amount you need. However, some brands also come in a squeezable tube or bottle.
It’s shelf-stable before using, but once you open the package you should store gochujang in the refrigerator. It will last up to six months, although you may notice it drying out or turning a darker color before then.
We never have that issue in my kitchen, as we use it all the time for a wide range of dishes. Follow my lead and start with some of these gochujang recipes, contributed by fellow food bloggers and spicy food lovers!
And don’t forget to stock up on some other essential ingredients. I share my top 10 list of Korean favorites in this blog post, so check it out before you head to the kitchen! You’ll want to make sure you have things like soy sauce, green onions, white rice, and sesame seeds on hand to complete your meal!
Gochujang Appetizers and Snacks
First up, try these snacks and apps to prime your palate with the rich, mouth-coating flavor of gochujang!
Korean Fried Chicken and Wings
If this is your first time trying Korean fried chicken, you’re in for a treat! The simple batter and double frying method makes the breading light, crispy, and unbelievably crunchy. It’s become a very popular type of Korean food, featured on restaurant menus from food trucks to fine dining.
Now you can enjoy a homemade version, along with chicken wings baked in the air fryer or oven.
Main Dishes Made with Gochujang
The gochujang recipes in this section are organized by protein type. But once you find a favorite, be sure to save it or pin it so you can enjoy it over and over again!
Beef Gochujang Recipes
Some of my favorite simple recipes feature ground beef in rice bowls…it’s a reliable option for meal prep and I never get tired of it! But there’s many other ways to pair gochujang with your favorite cut of beef.
Try some of these options, which use some familiar cooking methods like meatballs, grilling, or slow cooking and braising.
Pork Gochujang Recipes
Pork belly shows up in so many Korean dishes, but it’s not the only way to enjoy this protein! Try some of these gochujang recipes featuring pork tenderloin and ground pork.
Chicken Gochujang Recipes
Chicken is one of the most popular proteins in America, and these recipes showcase how versatile it can be! From chicken thighs to ground chicken, make the most of this affordable option and pair it with the bold flavor of gochujang.
Fish and Seafood Gochujang Recipes
The entire Korean Peninsula draws inspiration from the ocean, with unique regional dishes featuring all kinds of fish and seafood. Here in the U.S., seafood isn’t consumed as much but there are still some delicious ways to pair gochujang with familiar favorites like salmon and shrimp.
Plant-Based, Vegetarian, and Vegan Gochujang Recipes
These plant-based options are just as flavorful as their counterparts with animal proteins. The richness of fiery gochujang sauce adds plenty of interest and flavor to keep your taste buds satisfied.
Tofu is a familiar ingredient in Korean cuisine, and it’s incredibly versatile as you’ll see from the recipes below. If you want to learn more about the health benefits of tofu and other soy foods, check out this post next!
Savory Side Dishes and Pasta
Already have your main dish? No problem! These gochujang recipes feature gochujang as the base ingredient for a spicy sauce, paired with vegetables or pasta.
Sides Dishes and Condiments with Gochujang
Who doesn’t love a good dipping sauce? Gochujang is perfectly suited to mix into various sauces, condiments, or even a compound butter. A little bit goes a long way in these recipes, so start with small amounts then adjust according to your taste preferences and how you plan to use them.
Sweet and Spicy Desserts
Although perhaps not an obvious choice, gochujang paste works well for baking and pairing with sugary, sweet flavors! It adds a delightfully subtle heat and rich color to cookie batter.
Here are a couple of examples you can try:
Now you know the full range of what to make with gochuajng! It truly is a versatile ingredient that adds rich flavor to just about any dish. I hope you grow to love this Korean red pepper paste as much as I do – gochujang is one of those ingredients I make sure we never run out of!
There’s plenty of inspiration to be found within this list of gochujang recipes. But let your taste buds be your guide as you experiment in the kitchen and start to learn your favorite ways to enjoy it. And of course, save this post so the next time a craving hits, you have your perfect dish at your fingertips!
As always, thanks for stopping by the Street Smart Nutrition blog. Cheers to more fearlessly nourishing meals!
