Take a closer look at my blog, and you’ll see just how often I incorporate gochujang, a spicy and flavorful ingredient that’s a staple in my cooking. Known in English as Korean chili paste or Korean red pepper paste, this versatile condiment adds depth and heat to countless dishes.
What is Gochujang (Korean chili paste)?
Gochujang (고추장) is a savory, sweet, and spicy fermented condiment that is a staple in Korean cuisine. At its core, it’s made from Korean chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. The fermentation process gives it a complex flavor profile, with a balance of heat, sweetness, and umami.
Gochujang is commonly used in Korean dishes like bibimbap, tteokbokki, and it serves as a condiment for a variety of other Korean recipes. Its thick, paste-like consistency makes it a versatile ingredient for adding depth and spice to different dishes. So, if you love cooking Korean food, gochujang is a must-have condiment in your pantry!
Understanding Gochujang Spice Level
Before 2010, gochujang was only available in one level of spiciness. Nowadays, you can find a range of options from mild hot (순한 고추장) to slight hot (덜 매운 고추장), medium hot (보통 매운 고추장), very hot (매운 고추장), and even extreme hot (매우 매운 고추장).
I would classify the “regular gochujang” as medium hot, with a balanced spice level, which is what I use for all my recipes. However, many Korean grocers tend to carry only one or two spice levels, so you might not have all those choices available.
Choosing Gochujang: Personal Insights on Brands
Here’s a snapshot of the gochujang I’m currently using.
I usually purchase the large 3kg (6.6 pounds) size, which lasts me about 3-4 months, especially when I frequently cook spicy dishes.
Among the wide array of gochujang brands, I often gravitate towards two favorites that are popular in Korea.: Chungjungwon Sunchang (청정원 순창) by Daesang and Haechandle (해찬들) by CJ CheilJedang.
Some time ago, buying large sizes of gochujang often came with delightful freebies like mini packs or Lock & Lock containers, which really swayed my brand choices. Nowadays, though, those sweet deals are hard to come by, so I usually pick the brand that’s on sale or offers the best value.
If you’re curious to dive deeper into the world of Korean flavors, don’t miss my guide to essential Korean ingredients. Happy cooking!
