How to Make the Perfect Gochujang Noodles
Korean · Easy · 13 min · 4 servings
These Gochujang Noodles are a fiery and deeply savory noodle dish that comes together in just 15 minutes with pantry staples. The bold Korean-inspired sauce made from gochujang paste coats every noodle strand in layers of sweet heat and umami flavor.
Why this recipe works
This Gochujang Noodles recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 13 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 450 calories with 12g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 12 oz spaghetti or ramen noodles
- 3 tbsp gochujang paste
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 4 stalks scallions thinly sliced
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Cook pasta or ramen noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente according to package directions. Reserve three quarters of a cup of pasta water before draining the noodles thoroughly.
Step 2: Make the Gochujang Sauce
In the same pot or a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add gochujang paste and stir constantly for 1 minute until the paste darkens slightly and becomes fragrant. This step deepens the flavor dramatically.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Stir soy sauce and sesame oil into the gochujang butter. Add a quarter cup of reserved pasta water and whisk until a smooth glossy sauce forms. Add more pasta water as needed to reach a silky pourable consistency.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Add drained noodles to the sauce and toss vigorously over medium heat for 1 minute until every noodle is evenly coated and glossy. Divide into bowls and top with sliced scallions, sesame seeds, and a soft boiled egg if desired.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- gochujang paste → sriracha with a teaspoon of miso paste mimics the sweet spicy fermented flavor
- unsalted butter → vegan butter or extra sesame oil makes this dish completely plant-based
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not blooming the gochujang in butter first which results in a flat less complex sauce flavor
- Using too little pasta water making the sauce too thick and unable to coat the noodles properly
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 450 calories, 12g protein, 66g carbs, 16g fat, 3g fiber.
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