What is Gochujang?
Gochujang is a savory, spicy, and slightly sweet fermented chili paste that is a staple in Korean cuisine.
It is made from red chili peppers, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt.
Gochujang has been a part of Korean cuisine for over 1,000 years and is a beloved ingredient in many traditional Korean dishes.
The Health Benefits of Gochujang
Not only is gochujang delicious, but it also has numerous health benefits. Gochujang is high in capsaicin, a compound that is known to boost metabolism and aid in weight loss. It also contains antioxidants, which can help protect the body against free radicals and reduce inflammation.
Incorporating Gochujang into Your Diet
Gochujang can be used in a variety of ways to add flavor and spice to your meals. It can be used as a marinade for meats, a dipping sauce for vegetables, or even mixed into your morning eggs. One of the most popular ways to use gochujang is in Korean dishes like bibimbap, tteokbokki, and bulgogi.
Creamy Gochujang Pasta without Cream
As a substitute for cream, we are using the pasta water to make the pasta creamy. The starch in the pasta water will naturally make the sauce creamy without the use of cream. Sometimes we just prefer dishes without cream.
Ingredients
- 250g pasta
- 1 tbsp cooking oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 60g onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp gochujang paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- green onions, optional garnish
- sesame seeds, optional garnish
Let's Get Cooking!
Time to get the ball rolling! Follow these simple steps:
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Cook the pasta Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions. Keep an eye on the clock to ensure perfect al dente noodles.
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Sauté the veggies While the pasta is bubbling away, heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and onions until they release their mouthwatering aroma.
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Add the magic Now it's time for the star ingredient: gochujang paste! Stir in the gochujang paste, soy sauce, and honey (or agave syrup). Mix well until everything is combined.
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Bring it together Once your pasta is cooked, drain it, and add it to the pan with your sauce. Toss everything together to ensure each noodle is coated in that creamy, spicy goodness.
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Make it creamy Add a touch of pasta water (about 4 tablespoons) to achieve the desired level of creaminess. The starchy water will help bind the sauce to the pasta.
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Season and garnish Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as needed. For an extra pop of flavor, garnish your masterpiece with green onions and sesame seeds.
Tips and Tricks
To elevate your Vegan Creamy Korean Gochujang Pasta even further, consider these suggestions:
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative.
- Add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for an extra nutrient boost.
- Top the dish with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy touch.
Nutrition Information
This recipe serves 4 people, with approximately 200g per serving. Nutrition information will vary depending on the specific ingredients and pasta type used.
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 58g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 10g
Please note that these values are approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients and pasta type used. To get the most accurate nutrition information, you can use an online nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients.
FAQs
What is gochujang paste?
Gochujang paste is a Korean fermented chili paste made from red chili, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. It adds a spicy and umami flavor to dishes.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, such as tamari.
Is this recipe vegan?
By substituting honey with agave syrup, this recipe becomes entirely vegan.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent the sauce from drying out.
Can I freeze this dish?
We don't recommend freezing this dish, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed, and the pasta may become mushy. It's best enjoyed fresh!
Is gochujang spicy?
Yes, gochujang is spicy, but it also has a slightly sweet and savory flavor.
Can I use gochujang in other pasta dishes?
Absolutely! Gochujang can be used in any pasta dish that could use a little spice