Korean Style Gochujang (Hot Pepper Paste) Recipe
A Flavorful and Authentic Korean Condiment
Gochujang, a staple in Korean cuisine, is a spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet hot pepper paste that adds depth of flavor to various dishes. This recipe provides you with a simple method to prepare Gochujang at home. The ingredients are primarily natural and easily available, ensuring a fresh and authentic taste. This paste is not only versatile in Korean dishes but also perfect for fusion recipes, enhancing the flavor of everything from soups to marinades, and even grilled meats.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Barley (seeds) | 1/2 cup (soaked with 2 teaspoons sugar for 2 hours and ground into a smooth paste) |
| Rice flour | 1/2 cup |
| Red chili powder | 1/4 cup |
| Jaggery (powdered) | 5 tablespoons |
| Soy sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 45 kcal |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 11 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Fat | 0.5 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Preparation Time
- Soaking Time for Barley: 2 hours
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 150 minutes (includes refrigeration)
Servings
- This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
Instructions
-
Prepare the Barley Paste
Begin by soaking the barley seeds with 2 teaspoons of sugar in water for about 2 hours. After soaking, grind the barley into a smooth paste. You can use a blender or a food processor for this process to ensure a fine, creamy texture. -
Cook the Mixture
Heat a flat skillet over medium heat. Add the smooth barley paste to the pan, followed by the rice flour, red chili powder, powdered jaggery, soy sauce, and salt. Stir the ingredients thoroughly to combine them well. -
Simmer and Thicken
Continue to cook the mixture for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The paste should gradually thicken as the water evaporates. You’ll know it’s ready when it no longer sticks to the sides of the skillet and achieves a smooth, paste-like consistency. -
Cool and Store
Turn off the heat and allow the Gochujang to cool for a few minutes. Once it has cooled down slightly, transfer the paste into an airtight container. Refrigerate the paste for at least 4 hours before using to allow the flavors to develop. As it ferments in the fridge, the color of the paste will deepen, and the flavors will intensify. -
Serve and Enjoy
Once fermented, the Gochujang is ready to use! It can be incorporated into various dishes like Korean-style Kimchi Udon Pasta with Scallions, stews, grilled meats, or any other recipe that could benefit from a spicy and savory kick.
Tips for Making Gochujang
- Sweetness Adjustment: Depending on your taste, you can adjust the amount of jaggery to make the paste sweeter or less so. You can substitute jaggery with brown sugar if needed.
- Fermentation: The fermentation process in the fridge is essential to developing the unique flavors of Gochujang. Don’t skip this step for the best results.
- Storage: Gochujang can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. It will continue to ferment slightly, which deepens its flavors.
Ways to Use Gochujang
- Korean BBQ Marinades: Add to beef, chicken, or pork marinades for an authentic Korean BBQ flavor.
- Kimchi: Gochujang is a key ingredient in Korean kimchi. Use it to make your own spicy fermented vegetables.
- Stews and Soups: Stir a spoonful into soups like Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi stew) or any Korean stew for added depth.
- Dips and Sauces: Mix with mayonnaise, sour cream, or yogurt to create a creamy, spicy dip for fries, veggies, or even chips.
Serving Suggestion
The homemade Korean Style Gochujang is perfect for use in Korean-style Kimchi Udon Pasta with Scallions, offering a flavorful one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with authentic Korean flavors. Simply toss your cooked udon noodles with the Gochujang paste, sautéed kimchi, and fresh scallions for a delightful and satisfying dish.
By making your own Gochujang at home, you not only ensure its freshness but also have control over its flavor intensity, making it tailored to your personal taste preferences. Enjoy the savory kick and spicy richness that this beloved Korean condiment brings to your cooking!
