Looking for an alternative to the spicy Korean red pepper paste called Gochujang? You’re in the right place! Keep reading for my favourite simple Gochujang substitutes.
What is Gochujang?
Gochujang is hot and slightly sweet red pepper paste popular in Korea.
Traditionally it was made with red pepper powder and fermented glutinious rice. Modern versions use corn syrup.
The ingredients on my pack include: Corn Syrup, Water, Wheat Powder, Rice Powder, Salt, Hot Pepper Powder (6%), Alcohol, Garlic, Flavour Enhancer (621), Acidity Regulator (327), Onion, Sweetener (960), Koji.
If you’re looking to eat low carb / keto, gouchujang does contain 50% carbohydrate – but as you’re generally only using a teaspoon or less it isn’t a huge problem.
Best Gochujang Substitutes
1. Sriracha
My first choice would be Sriracha because it has a similar level of sweetness and heat and because I generally have it in the house.
2. Tabasco / Other Hot Sauce
Mostly when using Gochujang you are just wanting the heat and not necessarily any sweetness. So Tabasco (or any other hot sauce you have in the house) will work.
3. Ketchup + Hot Chilli Powder
Tomato ketchup has the similar sweetness but it doesn’t have any of the chilli heat in Gochujang.
Combining hot chilli powder with ketchup adds both the heat and the sweetness that comes from Gochujang.
4. Chilli Bean Paste
This Chinese hot sauce will add a similar kick and hint of sweetness to your dish. Although chilli bean paste tends to be more salty so it isn’t an exact match.
Is Gochujang vegetarian?
Yes.
How to Store Gochujang
I just keep it in the fridge in the container I purchased it in. Will last months if not years. It can be frozen as well if you like.
More Ingredient Substitutes
- The Ultimate Guide to Vegetable Substitutes
- Broccoli
- Chilli Bean Sauce
- Kale
- Collard Greens
- Miso Paste
- Oyster Sauce
- Pesto
- Tahini
Also see see the Simple Ingredients Substitutes Index.
Have fun in the kitchen!
With love,
Jules x