Sweet Gochujang
Condiments
Nutri-ScoreA

Sweet Gochujang

Capsicum annuum

Clinical Encyclopedia

Sweet gochujang is a fermented Korean chili paste that combines red chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt, resulting in a sweet, spicy, and savory flavor profile. It is commonly used in Korean cuisine to enhance dishes with its unique umami taste.

Also known as:
고추장 (Korea)Gochujang (Korea)
Scientific NameCapsicum annuum
Region of OriginSouth Korea

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories100 kcal
Water
60%
Fiber1g
Total24.0g
Protein
2.5g(10%)
Fats
1.5g(6%)
Carbohydrates
20g(83%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin A500 IU (10%)
Vitamin C5 mg (6%)
Vitamin E0.5 mg (3%)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.1 mg (6%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)1 mg (5%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.2 mg (4%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (6%)
Folate10 mcg (3%)
Vitamin K2 mcg (2%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin B12: 0 mcgCholine: 5 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium20 mg (2%)
Iron0.5 mg (3%)
Magnesium10 mg (2%)
Phosphorus20 mg (2%)
Potassium150 mg (4%)
Zinc0.2 mg (2%)
Copper0.1 mg (5%)
Manganese0.1 mg (5%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Selenium: 0.2 mcg

Health Benefits

Rich in antioxidants, sweet gochujang can help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
Contains probiotics from fermentation, which can promote gut health and improve digestion.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High sodium content may pose risks for individuals with hypertension or cardiovascular issues. Moderation is advised.

How to Prepare & Consume

Sweet gochujang can be used as a marinade, dipping sauce, or ingredient in soups and stews. It is best mixed with other ingredients to balance its strong flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose gochujang that has a rich red color and a balanced sweet and spicy aroma. Check for quality ingredients without preservatives.

How to Store

Keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place or refrigerate after opening to extend its shelf life.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
AntimicrobialDigestiveAnti-inflammatory
Main Applications
Enhancing flavor in dishes
Marinade for meats and vegetables
Bioactive Compounds
Capsaicin

Known for its pain-relieving properties and potential to boost metabolism.

How to Consume
Used in marinades, sauces, soups, and as a condiment.
Did you know?

"Gochujang has been a staple in Korean cuisine for centuries, dating back to the 16th century."

Myths vs Realities

MythGochujang is only for spicy food lovers.
RealityIts sweetness balances the heat, making it enjoyable for a wide range of palates.
MythAll gochujang is the same.
RealityThere are various types of gochujang with different flavor profiles and heat levels.
MythGochujang is unhealthy due to its sugar content.
RealityWhile it contains sugar, it is used in moderation and offers health benefits.

Healthy Recipes

Sweet Gochujang Quinoa Salad

A vibrant quinoa salad tossed with fresh vegetables and a sweet gochujang dressing, perfect for a nutritious lunch or side dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons sweet gochujang
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet gochujang, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss well, and serve chilled.

Sweet Gochujang Grilled Chicken Skewers

Juicy chicken skewers marinated in a sweet gochujang sauce, grilled to perfection for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons sweet gochujang
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • Skewers, soaked in water
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix sweet gochujang, honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to create the marinade.
  2. 2. Add chicken cubes to the marinade and let sit for at least 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Thread chicken onto skewers and grill over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.

Sweet Gochujang Roasted Vegetables

A colorful medley of seasonal vegetables roasted with a sweet gochujang glaze, making for a healthy and delicious side dish.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons sweet gochujang
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, toss the mixed vegetables with sweet gochujang, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and caramelized.

Sweet Gochujang Tofu Stir-Fry

A quick and easy stir-fry featuring crispy tofu and colorful vegetables, all coated in a sweet gochujang sauce.

Ingredients
  • 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 2 cups mixed stir-fry vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas)
  • 2 tablespoons sweet gochujang
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat, add cubed tofu, and cook until golden brown.
  2. 2. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until tender.
  3. 3. Stir in sweet gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, and green onions, cooking for an additional 2 minutes before serving.

Sweet Gochujang Salmon Bowls

Flavorful salmon fillets glazed with sweet gochujang, served over a bed of brown rice and fresh veggies for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 2 tablespoons sweet gochujang
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli
  • 1/2 avocado, sliced
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a small bowl, mix sweet gochujang, honey, and soy sauce, then brush over the salmon fillets.
  3. 3. Bake salmon for 15-20 minutes until cooked through, and serve over brown rice with steamed broccoli and avocado.

Sweet Gochujang Cauliflower Wings

Crispy baked cauliflower florets tossed in a sweet gochujang sauce, perfect for a healthy snack or appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons sweet gochujang
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix almond flour, water, garlic powder, and salt to create a batter.
  3. 3. Dip cauliflower florets in the batter, place on the baking sheet, and bake for 20 minutes. Toss with sweet gochujang and maple syrup, then bake for an additional 10 minutes.

Sweet Gochujang Chickpea Salad

A protein-packed chickpea salad with a sweet gochujang dressing, ideal for a quick and nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, chopped
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons sweet gochujang
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet gochujang, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss well, and serve immediately.

Sweet Gochujang Zucchini Noodles

Light and refreshing zucchini noodles tossed in a sweet gochujang sauce, making for a healthy low-carb meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 2 tablespoons sweet gochujang
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat and add spiralized zucchini.
  2. 2. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
  3. 3. Stir in sweet gochujang, rice vinegar, and shredded carrots, cooking for another 2 minutes. Serve garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Sweet Gochujang Avocado Toast

A delicious twist on classic avocado toast, topped with a sweet gochujang drizzle for a spicy kick.

Ingredients
  • 2 slices whole grain bread, toasted
  • 1 ripe avocado, mashed
  • 1 tablespoon sweet gochujang
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix mashed avocado with lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Spread the avocado mixture on toasted bread.
  3. 3. Drizzle sweet gochujang over the top and sprinkle with red pepper flakes before serving.

Sweet Gochujang Energy Bites

Nutritious energy bites made with oats, nut butter, and sweet gochujang, perfect for a healthy snack on the go.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup almond butter
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons sweet gochujang
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
  1. 1. In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, almond butter, honey, sweet gochujang, chia seeds, and chocolate chips.
  2. 2. Mix until well combined, then form into small balls.
  3. 3. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set before enjoying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is sweet gochujang made of?

Sweet gochujang is made from red chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt.

Is sweet gochujang spicy?

Yes, it has a mild to moderate spice level, balanced by its sweetness.

How should I store sweet gochujang?

Store it in a cool, dry place or refrigerate after opening to maintain freshness.

Can I use sweet gochujang in non-Korean dishes?

Absolutely! It can enhance the flavor of various dishes, including stir-fries and marinades.

Is sweet gochujang gluten-free?

It depends on the brand; check the label for gluten-free certification.

How long does sweet gochujang last?

When stored properly, it can last for several months to a year.

Can I make sweet gochujang at home?

Yes, you can make it using red chili powder, rice flour, and other ingredients.

What are the health benefits of sweet gochujang?

It contains antioxidants and probiotics that can support gut health and reduce inflammation.