I still remember buying my first tub of gochujang because one recipe called for it. I was convinced it would end up forgotten in the back of my fridge... but I couldn't have been more wrong.
Now it's one of those ingredients I always keep on hand.
Whenever dinner feels a little boring, I stir a spoonful into a sauce and suddenly everything tastes so much more exciting. Chicken, tofu, beef, vegetables-even leftover rice gets a serious upgrade.
Table of Contents
If you're wondering what to make with that tub of gochujang, I've rounded up my favorite easy recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. Most come together in 30 minutes or less, and many are great for meal prep too.
What Exactly Is Gochujang?
If you've never cooked with it before, don't worry-it's much less intimidating than it looks!
Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste made with red chili peppers, glutinous rice, soybeans, and salt. It's thick, slightly sweet, savory, and has a gentle kick of heat that makes sauces taste rich and balanced instead of just spicy.
I love that a little goes a long way. One tub lasts me for months, even though I use it all the time.
My Favorite Tips for Cooking With Gochujang
If you're new to gochujang, here are a few things I've learned after making lots (and lots!) of recipes with it.
- Start with 1 tablespoon if you're unsure about the spice level. You can always stir in more.
- I almost always mix it with soy sauce, garlic, and a little honey or brown sugar. That sweet-salty-spicy combination never disappoints.
- Fresh garlic is absolutely worth it. It gives the sauce so much more flavor than garlic powder.
- Gochujang isn't just for chicken. It's delicious with tofu, mushrooms, salmon, shrimp, beef, roasted vegetables, rice, and noodles.
- Don't worry if you don't use it often. Once opened, it keeps really well in the refrigerator, so one container lasts quite a while.
- If you accidentally add a little too much, don't panic! A drizzle of honey, a splash of coconut milk, or even a little extra rice can help mellow the heat.
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Tips for Buying Gochujang
You'll usually find gochujang in the international aisle of most grocery stores or at your local Asian market. I almost always buy the larger tub because it's a better value, and honestly, once you start cooking with it, you'll probably find yourself reaching for it all the time.
Don't worry if it looks like a lot. It keeps for months in the refrigerator, so there's no rush to use it up.
15 Easy Gochujang Recipes
Gochujang Ground Chicken Bowls
Spicy Gochujang Mushroom Grain Bowls
Asian Beef Sloppy Joes
Crispy Miso Cauliflower (Air Fryer or Oven)
Korean BBQ Fried Chicken Bites (Air Fryer)
How To Make Skillet Potatoes (Korean Style)
15 Minute Korean Cucumber Salad (Spicy Cucumber Salad)
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Asian Beef Lettuce Wraps
Korean Spicy Mayo
Exclusive Homemade Gochujang Paste
Vegan Chili Cauliflower and Tofu Stir Fry
Spicy Korean Gochujang Noodles
Gochujang Fried Rice
Gochujang Salmon - Broiled, Baked, or Air Fryer
Air Fryer Korean Wings
Gochujang Tofu with Roasted Vegetables
Sheet-Pan Gochujang Chicken and Roasted Vegetables
Gochujang Ground Beef Bowls
Korean-Style Chicken & Chilli Meatballs with Gochujang Maple Glaze
20-Minute Gochujang Shrimp (An Easy Korean Shrimp Recipe)
Creamy Gochujang Broth Bowls with Crispy Beef and Rice
GOCHUJANG FAQ
Not as spicy as many people expect! It has a gentle heat with a little sweetness, which makes it incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the amount depending on how spicy you like your food.
Nothing tastes exactly the same, but if you're in a pinch, try mixing miso paste, sriracha, and a little honey. It'll give you a similar sweet, savory, and spicy flavor.
Absolutely! Simply use a little less gochujang or add an extra drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar to balance the heat.
Before You Go
If you found this post helpful, I'd love to hear from you! Leave a comment below and let me know your thoughts, questions, or experiences. Your feedback helps me create content that truly serves this wonderful community. ❤️
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