Korean gochujang is a spicy paste made from hot peppers that gives a tremendous kick of flavor!
Do you love spicy food? If you do, then Korean food is for you! Korean gochujang is a spicy paste made from hot peppers that gives a tremendous kick of flavor! Like Japan’s wasabi, it is a flavor-enhancer if you are brave enough to let it open your nasal passages. It can clear up congestion, but what else can it do? Let’s learn more about it right now.
What Is Gochujang?
Gochujang is the backbone of Korean cuisine. It has a counterpart in Japanese cooking – miso, which you might recognize from the soup served in many Asian-styled restaurants. The paste itself is comprised of red chiles, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. Plus, some sweetness is added to counteract the heat. Different brands will be hotter than others, just like any other commercially available hot sauce – whether they come from the USA, Mexico, India, or Vietnam!
Tips for Using It
Now that you know more about gochujang let’s dive into how you are supposed to use it! You only need a little bit at a time, just like miso paste. You can also use it as a marinade for various types of meats, like bulgogi. It can also be used for dipping sauces, stews, and soups – perfect for the colder weather that we are sliding into right now! If you want to enjoy it on its own, you will need to thin it out first. And since there is sugar, it might char or burn quickly, so watch out!
Tips for Storing It
Until you open it, you don’t need to keep the gochujang in the fridge. Once you open it, that all changes. Just make sure it doesn’t dry up or start changing colors. At some point, you’re bound to have more leftovers than you know what to do with it.
How to Use Leftover Paste
Now let’s have a closer look at how to use the leftovers. One idea is to make deviled eggs with kimchi for your next get-together. You can also try making a bimbimbosa featuring roasted butternut squash, shiitake mushrooms, kale, and kimchi. For something that is more fusion-inspired, experiment with spicy Korean pork burritos. Korean fried chicken is always delicious, especially if you’re ready for something different from typical American-style fried chicken. Finally, upgrade pasta night with gochujang spaghetti powered up with spiciness and cheese!
Get All Your Asian Groceries at Lotte Plaza Market
Lotte Plaza Market is your one-stop-shop for all of your Korean and Asian grocery needs. With more than 10 locations in Maryland and Virginia, this growing market is always expanding and opening new markets to serve our customers better. Since we opened in 1976, our goal has always been to provide the best customer service and groceries to our customers. For answers to all of your questions, please email us at LottePlaza.com.