A tube of Korean chili paste is on the wooden table.

Gochujang (고추장) is one of the core flavors of Korean cooking. It is a thick, slow-fermented chili paste made from fine red chili powder, glutinous rice, barley malt, fermented soybeans, and salt. The rice and malt give it a natural sweetness. The fermented soybeans add depth and umami. Good gochujang tastes spicy, savory, and slightly sweet all at once.

Traditional gochujang ferments outdoors for months in onggi jars. Modern versions are factory-fermented, but the flavor still changes by brand. Some are mild and rounded. Others lean hotter or sweeter. Check the spice-level indicator on the package to match your preference.

I use gochujang for many everyday dishes in my kitchen. It builds the base for sauces, stews, and marinades. It brings heat and body to staples like pork bulgogi, spicy braised chicken, and grilled fish sauces. A spoonful also lifts simple foods like stir-fried vegetables or rice bowls when you want a quick punch of flavor.

Most store-bought gochujang contains wheat. If you need a gluten-free option, look for brands that use rice or millet instead.

Storage

Unopened gochujang keeps well in a cool pantry. After opening, always refrigerate it. A sealed container helps prevent drying. It darkens over time from bright red to deep brown and the flavor grows richer. Most commercial gochujang lasts up to two years in the fridge.

Substitutes

There is no perfect substitute for gochujang. If you need something in a pinch, mix a little Korean chili powder with a touch of soy sauce, sugar, and a spoon of miso to mimic the sweet heat and fermented depth. It won’t match the flavor exactly, but it works for marinades and sauces. If your dish is stew-based, reduce the amount and taste as you go.

Where to Find Gochujang

Korean grocery stores always carry gochujang, usually in the condiment aisle beside doenjang and ssamjang. Asian supermarkets abroad stock it too. Look for the red tubs from brands like CJ Haechandle, Ofood or Chung Jung One. Many large U.S. supermarkets now keep it in the international aisle, and you can also order it easily online.