All you need to know about gochujang
Gochujang is a sweet and spicy Korean paste made from fermented soybeans, soy sauce and chilli.
You might wonder where to buy gochujang – find our spicy and fragrant gochujang paste in store or online.
What does gochujang taste like?
Gochujang is used to add big umami flavours and depth to dishes with its spicy, smoky and slightly funky taste coming from the fermentation process.
How spicy is gochujang?
One of the main ingredients in gochujang is chilli peppers, so the sauce does have a spicy kick. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, then you can reduce the quantity to your preferred heat level.
Is gochujang vegan?
Yes – most gochujang sauces are vegan-friendly, but always look at the label to double check.
Is gochujang gluten-free?
Sometimes – gochujang can be gluten-free depending on the type of soy sauce or vinegar used. Always check the label before cooking with it.
How to store gochujang?
Gochujang should be stored in a cool and dry place, like a kitchen cupboard or drawer. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and use before the expiry date.
Does gochujang go bad?
Yes – gochujang shouldn’t be consumed after its best before date.
How to use gochujang?
Typically, gochujang is used in Korean and East Asian cooking for marinating meat, as a base for soups and broths and for dipping sauces. However, gochujang is incredibly versatile and can be added to many dishes to ramp up the umami.
How to use gochujang in everyday cooking?
Give your favourite meals an extra kick with a spoonful of gochujang. Our ultimate beans on toast recipe is a Korean-style take on the British classic. Spice up family-favourite carbonara by stirring in a little gochujang paste.
How to use gochujang on the barbecue?
Gochujang and Korean barbecue go hand in hand. For an epic centrepiece, try these pork shoulder steaks, which are marinated in gochujang, garlic and ginger. Or add big flavours to your veggies with this barbecue mushroom recipe.
See more Korean barbecue recipes
More amazing gochujang recipes
Ready to add gochujang to your cooking repertoire? Our air-fryer toastie wrap is finished with a dollop of speedy gochujang mayonnaise – it's a real game-changer!
In this cheesy sausage roll recipe, the pastry is glazed with gochujang paste to make it extra golden, crispy and savoury. Top with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chilli flakes for a Korean twist.
