Innovate
7 Unique and Innovative Ways to Use Gochujang in Your Cooking
9 min read
Posted on 26/05/2024
Quick Summary
Gochujang, a thick, sticky condiment that’s spicy, very concentrated and pungent in flavour, is what we will be exploring today. Ever wondered in what innovative ways gochujang can be used to bring the legacy of Korean cuisine into your kitchen? From marinades to pizza toppings, gochujang has been contributing immensely to the Korean craze in Asian countries, one of which is India. Let’s discover the seven new and exciting flavour combinations with this versatile ingredient.
Deep Dive
In recent years, gochujang has become a popular ingredient in many kitchens worldwide. This spicy and savoury paste is a staple in Korean cuisine and has become an essential ingredient in modern fusion dishes. Gochujang is made from a blend of red chilli peppers, fermented soybeans, glutinous rice, and salt. The fermentation brings out an ingredient which is rich in consistency and bursting with umami flavour. The taste is so immaculate that your taste buds will transport you to the land of South Korea.
Calling Korean food lovers! We are giving this ingredient a look-see with different food options.
Gochujang Marinades
One of the most common ways to use gochujang is as a marinade for meats and vegetables. Gochujang's rich and savoury flavour makes it an excellent choice for marinating chicken, lamb, and even tofu. The spicy kick adds an exciting new dimension to classic marinades, creating depth and layers of flavour. Gochujang marinades can be used for grilling, baking, or even stir-frying, making it a versatile ingredient in any kitchen.
Gochujang Spiced Noodles
Another creative way to use gochujang is by incorporating it into noodles. Gochujang spiced noodles can be made by combining cooked noodles with a blend of gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. The outcome is a spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet dish exploding with endless flavours. Garnish it with sesame seeds, scallions, and cilantro for added texture and flavour.
Gochujang Stir Fry
Gochujang can also be used as a base for stir-fry dishes. The spicy paste can be mixed with other savoury ingredients, like garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, to create a delicious sauce for meats, vegetables, and noodles. The permutations and combinations are uncountable with gochujang stir fry dishes, as you can create your unique blend of flavours.
Gochujang Dipping Sauces
Dipping sauces are a great way to add zing to your meal. Interestingly, this versatile ingredient can be used in a myriad of such sauces. A blend of gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil makes for a versatile and flavourful dipping sauce. It is just the perfect accompaniment for a variety of dishes. It can be served as a dip for vegetables, sushi or grilled meats, adding a spicy and tangy kick to the dish.
Gochujang Fried Rice
Fried rice is a classic dish that can be elevated with the addition of gochujang. This Korean chilli paste infuses the rice with a spicy, flavourful kick, complemented by subtle hints of smokiness and sweetness. With endless possibilities for ingredients, you can experiment to create a perfect blend of flavours and textures.
Gochujang BBQ Sauce
Gochujang is an excellent ingredient for creating smokey and spicy BBQ sauces. Its thick and savoury consistency makes it a great base for a glaze or sauce for grilled meats, adding a rich and complex flavour to the dish. A blend of gochujang, honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates an appetising and aromatic BBQ sauce that is sure to be a hit.
Gochujang Pizza
Another creative way to use gochujang is by incorporating it into pizzas. A layer of gochujang paste mixed with a traditional white sauce can be used in place of tomato sauce. It is sure to create a spicy and unique pizza that you and your family can enjoy in the comfort of your home. To add some extra oomph, the pizza can be topped with a combination of meats, vegetables and cheeses. This is the perfect spicy treat.
Wrapping Up
Gochujang is a versatile ingredient that can add depth, complexity and heat to various dishes. It is umami-packed and its unique blend of flavours makes it a staple ingredient in Korean cuisine. This is the significant reason for its worldwide popularity too. These innovative ways to use gochujang are just the tip of the iceberg, as there are endless possibilities for incorporating gochujang into your culinary creations. So, go ahead and experiment with this delicious ingredient and discover new and exciting flavour combinations that are sure to please your taste buds.
blurb

