At Saagar Phuket, we love introducing our guests to exciting flavors from around Asia. One ingredient that has captured global attention is gochujang sauce, a Korean chili-based seasoning that adds depth and heat to almost any dish. In this article, we’ll explore its history, flavor, and health aspects, and share a recipe for preparing vegetables with this vibrant condiment.
What Is Gochujang?
For anyone unfamiliar, what is gochujang? It’s a fermented chili paste from Korea, traditionally made with red chili peppers, fermented soybeans, and glutinous rice. The result is a thick, savory paste that balances sweetness, heat, and umami. When diluted with soy sauce, vinegar, or sesame oil, it transforms into gochujang sauce—a smooth, pourable seasoning used for stir-fries, marinades, and dips.
Many diners also wonder what is gochujang sauce compared to the paste. The difference lies in texture: the paste is concentrated and bold, while the sauce is blended to be more versatile.
The Story Behind the Flavor
Korean households have used gochujang paste for centuries, traditionally fermenting it in clay pots. It became a staple not just for everyday meals but also for celebratory dishes. In modern times, it has spread far beyond Korea, inspiring chefs across Asia and the world.
At Saagar, our chefs first experimented with this chili paste while creating Asian fusion dishes. Combining it with Phuket’s fresh vegetables led to a colorful stir-fry that balances spice with freshness—perfect for both locals and visitors. Phuket is full of culinary treasures, from Saagar’s Asian fusion dishes to authentic flavors at Shalimar Phuket.”
What Does It Taste Like?
A common question is what gochujang tastes like. The answer: rich, savory, slightly sweet, and moderately spicy. If you’re asking is gochujang spicy, the heat is noticeable but not overpowering. It’s less about burning heat and more about deep, satisfying warmth. This makes it ideal for vegetable stir-fries, noodle bowls, or even classic what is gochujang dishes. Book a table at our contact page and experience these flavors in Phuket
Vegetable Stir-Fry with this Sauce
Here’s how we prepare vegetables with gochujang sauce at Saagar Phuket:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups assorted vegetables (broccoli, carrots, zucchini, mushrooms, bell peppers)
- 2 tablespoons gochujang paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- Sesame seeds and scallions for garnish
Method:
- In a small bowl, whisk together gochu-jang paste, soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, honey, and garlic to form a smooth sauce.
- Heat oil in a wok or skillet. Add broccoli and carrots first, stir-frying until slightly tender.
- Add the remaining vegetables and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
- Pour in the sauce, tossing everything until well-coated.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallions before serving.
Serve this vibrant dish with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Tips for Cooking with this Sauce
- Start small: Because the paste is concentrated, add gradually and taste as you go.
- Balance is key: Pair the chili paste with vinegar, soy sauce, or honey for a smoother flavor.
- Protein boost: Add tofu, shrimp, or even chicken for extra variety. A gochujang chicken thighs recipe works beautifully with this same sauce.
- Grill-friendly: Use it as a glaze or as a gochu-jang chicken marinade for BBQ.
Variations You Can Try
- Tofu and Vegetables
Add cubes of tofu for a plant-based protein option.
- Seafood Twist
Swap zucchini for squid or prawns for a Thai-Korean fusion.
- Noodle Stir-Fry
Mix the vegetables and sauce with soba or udon noodles.
Gochu-jang Beyond Vegetables
Although this article focuses on vegetables, the chili paste is perhaps most famous for its use in gochujang chicken. From fried wings to grilled thighs, it’s a global favorite. A sticky gochujang chicken marinade adds depth and caramelization when grilled, while a quick stir-fry of chicken and gochujang creates a comforting weeknight dish.
At Saagar Phuket, we occasionally feature special dishes highlighting this ingredient, showcasing how seamlessly it pairs with both Thai flavors and Korean tradition. For another Southeast Asian favorite, check out our Thai Stinky Beans Recipe
Final Thoughts
From its roots in Korean villages to its place on international restaurant menus, gochujang has become a symbol of flavor and creativity. At Saagar Phuket, we love introducing our guests to dishes that celebrate cultural fusion—like fresh vegetables prepared with gochu-jang sauce.
Whether you’re learning is gochujang spicy, curious about what does gochujang taste like, or tempted by a classic gochu-jang chicken recipe, this ingredient deserves a spot in your kitchen. And if you’re in Phuket, come visit us to taste how we bring it to life in our signature style.