What is Gochujang?
Gochujang is a Korean chili paste made from gochugaru, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. It is a staple ingredient in Korean cuisine and is used to add flavor and heat to dishes. When romanized there are multiple common spellings. You may see it spelled one of the following ways, I assure you they’re all the same item: Gochujang, Gochuchang, and Gochugang.
The paste has a unique combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, and is often used as a condiment and cooking ingredient. It can be used to add depth of flavor to stews, and marinades and as a dipping sauce for meats and vegetables, I also really love gochujang in soup.
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Top 5 Popular Brands of Gochujang
- Sunchang Gochujang: Known for its authenticity and traditional recipe.
You can have it delivered by Amazon here. - Haechandle Gochujang: Known for its quality and consistent taste.
You can have it delivered by Amazon here. - Chung Jung One Gochujang: Known for its convenience and versatility.
You can have it delivered by Amazon here. - Sempio Gochujang: Known for its rich and complex flavor.
You can have it delivered by Amazon here. - Bibigo Gochujang: Known for its mild and well-balanced flavor.
You can have it delivered by Amazon here.
Top 5 Most Popular Gochujang Meals
- Bibimbap – A classic Korean dish consisting of rice topped with various vegetables, meat, and an egg. Gochujang is often used as a seasoning for the meat and as a condiment for the dish as a whole.
- Kimchi Jjigae – A Korean stew made with ingredients such as seafood, meat, or tofu. Gochujang is often used to add heat and depth of flavor to the broth.
- Tteokbokki – A popular Korean street food consisting of chewy rice cakes in a spicy sauce made with Gochujang.
- Bossam – A traditional Korean dish made with steamed pork wrapped in lettuce with a spicy dipping sauce made with Gochujang.
- Japchae – A Korean dish made with sweet potato noodles stir-fried with vegetables and meat. Gochujang is often used as a seasoning for the meat and as a sauce for the dish as a whole.
When Does Gochujang Expire
The shelf life of gochujang depends on a few factors, including how it was made, the ingredients used, and how it is stored. Generally, gochujang can last anywhere from several months to a year or more, because of this a gochujang expiration date is very difficult to determine on homemade gochujang.
Unopened gochujang that is stored in a cool, dry place can last for up to a year. However, once it is opened, the shelf life can decrease to several months. This is because exposure to air and moisture can cause the paste to spoil more quickly.
How to Know If Gochujang Is Bad
The first thing to do when trying to determine whether Gochujang is bad is to check the expiration date on the packaging. Gochujang usually has a shelf life of one to two years if stored in a cool, dry place.
Check For Mold
Mold is a common sign that Gochujang has gone bad. Check the surface of the paste for any signs of mold growth. If you see mold, do not consume the Gochujang, as it could make you sick. Mold can develop when Gochujang is exposed to air or moisture, so it’s important to keep the packaging tightly sealed when not in use.
Smell
Another way to tell if Gochujang is bad is by smelling it. Fresh Gochujang has a sweet and slightly pungent aroma, while old or spoiled Gochujang will have a sour or rancid smell. If the Gochujang smells off, it’s best to discard it.
Texture
The texture of Gochujang can also give you clues as to whether it’s gone bad. Fresh Gochujang should be smooth and have a thick consistency. If you notice any separation or chunks in the paste, or if it appears dry or crumbly, it may have gone bad.
How To Store Gochujang
Refridgerate
Once you open a container of gochujang, it is essential to refrigerate it immediately. Gochujang can last up to a year in the refrigerator if stored properly. The ideal temperature for storing gochujang is between 35°F and 40°F.
Air Tight Container
When storing gochujang, it is crucial to use an airtight container. Exposure to air can cause the paste to dry out, leading to a loss of flavor and texture. Additionally, an airtight container prevents moisture from entering and causing spoilage.
When storing gochujang, it is crucial to keep it in a cool, dark place. Exposure to light and heat can cause the paste to spoil quickly. Therefore, avoid storing gochujang near a window or a heat source.