Gochujang, a fundamental ingredient in Korean cuisine, brings a deep, complex flavour with its spicy, sweet, and umami-rich profile. Made from red chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt, gochujang is traditionally fermented over months or even years. This process not only intensifies its taste but also creates the layered, bold flavour that’s loved worldwide. Recognisable by its red tub packaging, gochujang is a great first ingredient for anyone starting out in Korean cooking.
Gochujang’s thick texture and balanced heat make it incredibly versatile, lending a rich kick to various dishes. Here’s a guide to using gochujang creatively, whether you’re aiming to recreate traditional Korean flavours or add a unique twist to everyday recipes.
10 Delicious Ways to Use Gochujang
1. Korean BBQ Marinade
Mix gochujang with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sugar for a spicy-sweet marinade. Ideal for meats like beef and pork or even veggies, this sauce is perfect for grilling or pan-searing.
2. Bibimbap Sauce
Bibimbap, a popular Korean rice bowl, isn’t complete without a spicy-savoury gochujang sauce. Combine gochujang with sesame oil, rice vinegar, and a hint of honey to drizzle over rice, veggies, and a fried egg.
3. Spicy Mayo for Dipping
Whisk gochujang with mayonnaise for a creamy, spicy dip that pairs well with fries, burgers, or grilled seafood. It’s also fantastic as a spread for sandwiches or wraps, adding a subtle heat with a creamy texture.
4. Gochujang Stir-Fry
Add gochujang to stir-fried vegetables, tofu, or noodles for an umami-rich twist. Mix a spoonful of gochujang with soy sauce and sesame oil to create a quick sauce that brings out the best in stir-fried dishes.
5. Korean Fried Chicken Sauce
For a sticky, spicy-sweet glaze on fried chicken, mix gochujang with soy sauce, honey, garlic, and a touch of rice vinegar. Toss fried chicken in this sauce for a bold, crowd-pleasing dish.
6. Gochujang-Infused Soups and Stews
A spoonful of gochujang adds depth and spice to soups like kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew) or doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew). Its richness enhances the flavour of broth-based dishes, making them heartier and more satisfying.
7. Roasted Vegetables with Gochujang
Toss vegetables in gochujang, olive oil, and a touch of maple syrup before roasting. This sweet-spicy mix caramelises as it cooks, bringing out the natural sweetness in veggies like carrots, cauliflower, or brussels sprouts.
8. Gochujang Noodles
For a quick noodle dish, mix gochujang with soy sauce, a bit of honey, and sesame oil, then toss with cooked noodles. Add green onions, sesame seeds, and sliced veggies for a spicy, satisfying meal.
9. Gochujang Burger Sauce
Add a Korean twist to your burger by mixing gochujang into ketchup or BBQ sauce. It brings a smoky heat that elevates burgers, grilled meats, and even roasted veggie sandwiches.
10. Gochujang Tofu or Eggplant
Marinate tofu or slices of eggplant in a gochujang-based sauce (mixed with soy, garlic, and a bit of mirin) before pan-frying or grilling. This dish is packed with flavour and makes an excellent plant-based main course.
Gochujang’s versatility and unique flavour profile make it a standout ingredient that easily enhances a range of dishes. From marinades to soups, its balanced heat and depth add authenticity to Korean dishes and fusion flair to everyday recipes. Once you start using gochujang, you’ll find it’s an essential staple that brings Korean-inspired richness to your cooking.
Some of our favourite recipes featuring Gochujang on Wokme.com
Korean-Inspired Miso Gochujang Beef Stir-Fry
Gochujang Minced Beef Bulgogi
Korean Fried Chicken
Korean Minced Beef Pie
Korean Gochujang Minced Beef
