Gochujang is a Korean paste that is used in the preparation of most dishes. It has a good quality taste with a red color. Gochujang is highly nutritious as it contains fermented soybeans.
This ingredient is so important and widely used in Asia restaurants or eateries to prepare their stews, vegetable sauce and can also be used to eat meat. This spicy condiment, however, may not be present or available at the time you need it more, and it is essential to know its right substitutes in which I would give you the very best of them below.
1. Sriracha
Sriracha is a hot chili sauce as it is known worldwide as one of the hottest sauces. It is a very good substitute for gochujang because of the pepper nature it has. Sriracha is a sweet recipe you can use to prepare any food of your choice.
Although sriracha is not as thick as gochujang, but still one of the best substitutes for the former. It is red and used in many restaurants and eateries today.
Summary
Sriracha is a red hot sauce and a good substitute for gochujang. It offers the same properties in sweetness to blend in all kinds of foods.
2. Harissa
Harrisa is another good substitute for gochujang as it still has a hot chili taste but not the same sweetness. This paste is made in North Africa is well renowned because it gives a nice and splendid aroma to meals it is prepared with.
It can be seen easily, unlike gochujang, which is difficult to see in most stores. Harissa contains a medium quantity of salt, chilled pepper, cumin seed, and olive oil.
Summary
Harissa is a nice paste and a reliable substitute for gochujang. Apart from the difference in taste, it has the same red hot pepper taste and is delicious for your meals.
3. Red pepper flake paste
Red pepper flake paste is a homemade recipe and can be used as a substitute for gochujang. Its taste differs from gochujang’s but still offers the same sweetened taste to whatever it is used to cook.
Red pepper flake paste can be made with red pepper flake with sugar, soybean, and thick paste flavor. It is nice and hot when fully made and would certainly give you what you want.
Summary
Red pepper flake paste is an interesting substitute for gochujang, giving your meals the same hot pepper taste.
4. Thai chili paste
Thai chili paste is a good and highly recommended substitute for gochujang. This paste is sweet but has much garlic as its content so not as sweet as gochujang. Thai chili paste can be used to prepare your dishes and make them sumptuous as it is still thick and red.
You can certainly use it for your stews, sauces and to prepare your steam your meat and fish.
Summary
Thai chi paste is super thick as gochujang and a good substitute for your cooking process. It is also red hot but contains more garlic.
5. Miso and chili recipe
Miso is a recipe that is almost similar in taste and thickness to gochujang, making it a good substitute. It can be mixed with chili pepper to make it hot and give it a nice and sumptuous taste.
When fully prepared, it can b used to cook any kind of dish and make your meal super-hot and sweet.
Summary
Miso and chili recipe is one of the best substitutes for gochujang. It is homemade, which makes it more interesting to get and use.
Nutritional Facts Summary
| Substitute | Flavor Profile | Texture | Best Used In | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sriracha | Hot, tangy, slightly sweet | Smooth | Asian dishes, sauces, marinades | Chili peppers, vinegar, garlic |
| Harissa | Spicy, smoky, earthy | Paste-like | North African cuisine, stews, couscous | Chili peppers, spices, garlic |
| Red Pepper Flake Paste | Spicy, slightly smoky | Paste with flakes | Pasta, pizza, soups | Red pepper flakes, oil |
| Thai Chili Paste | Spicy, vibrant, aromatic | Paste-like | Thai curries, stir-fries | Thai bird’s eye chili, herbs |
| Miso and Chili Recipe | Umami-rich, complex, spicy | Varies (depends on recipe) | Asian-inspired dishes, glazes | Miso paste, chili flakes, other ingredients |
FAQs
Is gochujang similar to Sriracha?
Gochujang and Sriracha are not very similar. Gochujang is thicker, sweeter, and has a deeper flavor with some spiciness. Sriracha is thinner, tangier, and hotter.
Is gochujang the same as chili paste?
Yes, gochujang is a type of chili paste, but it’s not the same. Gochujang has more ingredients like fermented soybeans and rice, which give it a complex taste.
Can I substitute red curry paste for gochujang?
They are quite different, so substituting red curry paste for gochujang may change the dish’s flavor. Gochujang has a sweeter, spicier taste with some umami, while red curry paste has a different blend of spices used in Thai cuisine.
How does gochujang taste?
Gochujang tastes a bit sweet, a bit spicy, and a little tangy. It also has a rich and savory flavor. It’s unique and gives dishes a bold taste.
Conclusion
Many different substitutes for gochujang can be used in Korean dishes. The best substitute for gochujang will depend on the specific dish you are making and your personal preferences. When choosing a substitute for gochujang, it is important to consider its heat level, flavor profile, and consistency. With some experimentation, you will surely find the perfect substitute for gochujang for your next Korean dish!
