Gochujang: The Korean flavor enhancer you need to try

New to the Heatsupply range is Gochujang. The Korean flavor enhancer we’ve already seen in some of our hot sauces, like the La Pimenterie Gochuracha. But now also in its purest form, Korean chili paste in a jar.

But what exactly is Gochujang? And how do you use it? We’re happy to tell you and you’ll probably add a jar to your next order too.

What is gochujang?

Gochujang (pronounced “goo-choo-jang”) is a real flavor enhancer. This thick, red paste combines four fundamental flavors that together create this magical paste. The base consists of red chili peppers for the kick, glutinous rice flour that provides natural sweetness, fermented soybeans for depth and salt for the perfect balance.

The real secret lies in the fermentation process. In Korea, gochujang is traditionally fermented for months in large earthenware pots under the open sky. This slow fermentation develops that unique “sweet spiciness”, which is really a top addition to many dishes.

The flavor explosion you don’t expect

Where sriracha sets your mouth on fire and Chinese chili oil makes you cry, gochujang offers something totally different: the perfect combination of spicy, sweet and umami.

This flavor makes gochujang incredibly versatile. A little bit transforms your simple scrambled eggs into a Korean delicacy, or your piece of meat into a masterpiece.

How to use gochujang

Time to start incorporating gochujang into your kitchen. But how?

• As a marinade: Gochujang is really perfect as a marinade. Coat your meat with the paste, let it soak in for a while and then cook it on the grill or on the BBQ.
• As a sauce: Mix the gochujang with some other ingredients that make the paste a bit creamier or smoother (like mayo) and use it as a table sauce.
• As a spread: Use this Korean paste perfectly as a spread with bread. Combine it with some olive oil and you have an amazing dip.
• As a veggie option for Nduja or other spicy meat: because even though Gochujang has nothing to do with meat, it immediately reminded us of Nduja, the spreadable spicy meat.

The beautiful thing about gochujang? You only need very little. A teaspoon can transform an entire meal. Perfect for the conscious cook.

Where do you find this Korean gem?

Good news for all hot sauce fanatics: gochujang is no longer a specialty you only find in specialty stores. You can buy the tastiest gochujang, the one from Oh Na Mi, now also from us.

And here comes the best part: due to the fermentation process, Gochujang keeps well for a long time. Even after the expiration date they say at Oh Na Mi, but we’ll leave that up to you. Just store it in the fridge and enjoy this flavor enhancer for weeks.

Are you ready to take your cooking skills to the next level? Which dish are you going to spice up first with this Korean superfood?