The other night, I was in the mood for something warm and soul-soothing—perfect for a chilly evening when the kids were tucked into their favorite books. I decided to whip up a Gochujang soup, a Korean-inspired dish I’d been experimenting with for weeks.
The result? A hearty, flavorful bowl of comfort that had everyone at the table asking for seconds.
The layers of spice and umami were so satisfying, and the best part? It was surprisingly simple to pull together. If you’re looking for a dish that warms both the heart and the tummy, this Gochujang soup is for you!
What Makes My Gochujang Soup Recipe Unique?
Gochujang soup is a staple in Korean soup recipes, celebrated for its deep, rich flavors that come from its star ingredient: gochujang, a fermented red chili paste.
While many recipes stick to tradition, I like to add my own twist to make it a bit more family-friendly without losing its authenticity.
For my version, I include a mix of fresh vegetables, tender proteins, and a hint of ssamjang (another Korean paste) to enhance the flavor profile.
I also add a touch of honey for balance and include rice noodles to make it feel more like a hearty Korean noodle soup. This fusion approach makes it approachable for everyone while still delivering that irresistible Korean flair.
Ingredients List For Gochujang Soup Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting dish:
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tbsp Gochujang paste (halal-certified)
- 1 tbsp Ssamjang paste
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (use halal-certified chicken broth if choosing chicken)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (halal-certified)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp honey (optional, for balance)
Proteins and Vegetables:
- 200g boneless chicken thighs or tofu (cubed, use halal chicken if choosing meat)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 cup spinach or bok choy
Noodles and Garnishes:
- 150g rice noodles or glass noodles
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Red chili flakes, to taste
Substitutions and Variations
- Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and chicken with tofu or tempeh.
- Low-Carb Variation: Skip the rice noodles and add more veggies like spiralized zucchini or daikon radish.
- Extra Heat: Add a teaspoon of Korean chili flakes or a dash of halal gochugaru for a spicier kick.
- Protein Choices: Swap chicken for shrimp, halal beef, or even boiled eggs for a Gochujang ramen vibe.
This recipe is flexible enough to cater to different tastes, so feel free to mix and match ingredients!
Gochujang Soup Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base
- Heat sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and onions, sautéing until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
- Stir in the gochujang and ssamjang pastes, cooking for 1-2 minutes to release their aroma.
Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the soy sauce and honey, ensuring everything is well combined.
Step 3: Cook Proteins and Vegetables
- Add your protein of choice (chicken, tofu, or shrimp) and let it cook through.
- Once the protein is nearly done, toss in the mushrooms, carrots, and zucchini. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Noodles and Greens
- Add the rice noodles to the pot and let them cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
- Stir in the spinach or bok choy, allowing it to wilt into the soup.
Step 5: Final Touches
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed (add more soy sauce or a pinch of salt).
- Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each serving with green onions, sesame seeds, and a sprinkle of red chili flakes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing Gochujang Soup
- Skipping the Paste Sauté Step: Always cook the gochujang and ssamjang briefly in oil to unlock their full flavor.
- Overcooking the Noodles: Rice noodles cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid a mushy texture.
- Adding Spinach Too Early: Add greens at the very end to keep them vibrant and fresh.
- Underseasoning the Broth: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust as you go; the balance of flavors is key.
Gochujang Soup Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation matters, especially when you’re serving something this gorgeous! Use wide, shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the soup. Add a swirl of sesame oil on top for shine, and sprinkle sesame seeds generously for a nutty aroma.
If you’re feeling fancy, serve the soup with a side of steamed rice or a small plate of kimchi for an authentic Korean touch.
How to Serve Gochujang Soup
This soup pairs beautifully with other Korean dishes. Serve it alongside a light cucumber salad or a plate of Korean-style scallion pancakes for a complete meal.
For an extra treat, you can also serve it with a small dish of ssamjang sauce on the side. It’s perfect for dipping crusty bread or spooning over the soup for extra depth.
Extra Recipe Tips For Gochujang Soup
- Make Ahead: The soup base can be prepared a day in advance. Just add the noodles and greens before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the flavors.
- Customizations: Don’t hesitate to add other vegetables like bell peppers, cabbage, or corn kernels for variety.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this soup less spicy?
A: Absolutely! Use a smaller amount of gochujang and balance it with more broth or a touch of coconut milk.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have ssamjang?
A: You can skip it or replace it with a bit more gochujang mixed with miso paste for a similar flavor.
Q: Can I use udon or ramen noodles instead of rice noodles?
A: Yes! Udon or ramen noodles work well and make it feel like a Gochujang ramen dish.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a way to elevate your soup game, this Gochujang soup recipe is a must-try. Packed with layers of flavor and just the right amount of spice, it’s a dish that brings warmth and excitement to your dinner table.
Whether you’re a fan of Korean soups and stews or just looking for a fresh way to enjoy a comforting meal, this recipe has you covered. Give it a try, and I promise, it’ll become a family favorite in no time.
Now, grab that spoon and dig in—your perfect bowl of Gochujang soup awaits!
