A Small Guide to Using Gochugaru in Non-Korean Dishes

Korean chili powder, known as gochugaru (고춧가루), is a staple in Korean cuisine, bringing a unique balance of smokiness, natural sweetness, and moderate heat to dishes. While it's famous for its role in kimchi, tteokbokki, and bibimbap, its versatility extends far beyond Korean cooking. In this guide, we explore how you can incorporate gochugaru into Western and international dishes, offering a bold and flavorful twist to your meals.

Why Use Gochugaru in Non-Korean Dishes?

Unlike other chili powders, gochugaru has a subtle heat and slightly fruity undertone, making it an excellent spice for enhancing flavors without overpowering them. Its fine or coarse flakes dissolve easily into sauces, marinades, and dry rubs, making it a fantastic alternative to paprika, cayenne, or generic chili powder blends.

Let’s explore some creative ways to incorporate gochugaru into Western dishes, along with some simple yet delicious recipes.

1. Gochugaru-Spiced BBQ Rub

Perfect for grilled meats, ribs, and roasted vegetables, this spice rub infuses a gentle heat and mild smokiness into your dishes.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp gochugaru

• 1 tbsp smoked paprika

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.

2. Rub generously onto meat or vegetables before grilling.

3. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes before cooking for deeper flavor.

2. Spicy Gochugaru Tacos

Give your tacos a Korean twist by adding gochugaru to your taco seasoning. The mild smokiness pairs exceptionally well with beef, chicken, pork, or even fish tacos.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp gochugaru

• 1 tsp cumin

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

Instructions:

1. Mix the spices together.

2. Season your choice of meat or vegetables before cooking.

3. Serve in warm tortillas with toppings like avocado, lime, and fresh cilantro.

3. Gochugaru-Infused Pasta Sauce

Spice up your favorite marinara or creamy pasta sauces by adding a hint of gochugaru. It complements tomato-based dishes beautifully.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1 tsp gochugaru

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

2. Sauté onions and garlic until softened.

3. Add crushed tomatoes, gochugaru, salt, and oregano.

4. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Serve over pasta and garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.

4. Spicy Roasted Vegetables with Gochugaru

A simple yet flavorful way to elevate roasted vegetables like brussels sprouts, cauliflower, or sweet potatoes.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups vegetables of choice, chopped

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp gochugaru

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Toss vegetables with olive oil and spices.

3. Spread evenly on a baking sheet.

4. Roast for 20–25 minutes, tossing halfway through.

5. Serve hot and enjoy!

5. Gochugaru-Infused Butter for Bread & Seafood

Create a spicy butter spread to use on toasted bread, grilled seafood, or corn on the cob.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 tsp gochugaru

• 1 tsp honey

• ½ tsp lemon zest

• ¼ tsp garlic powder

• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.

2. Spread onto bread or melt over seafood dishes for a kick of flavor.

6. Gochugaru-Spiced Popcorn

A savory and slightly spicy snack, perfect for movie nights!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups popped popcorn

• 1 tbsp melted butter or olive oil

• 1 tsp gochugaru

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp nutritional yeast (optional for cheesy flavor)

Instructions:

1. Toss popcorn with melted butter or olive oil.

2. Sprinkle with gochugaru and salt.

3. Shake well and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Gochugaru isn’t just for Korean food—it’s a fantastic way to add depth, heat, and complexity to a wide variety of Western dishes. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or cooking sauces, this versatile chili powder can elevate your meals in exciting ways.

So next time you’re in the kitchen, don’t hesitate to experiment with gochugaru in your favorite recipes—you might just discover a new favorite flavor!

Have you tried using gochugaru in non-Korean dishes? Share your favorite recipes and experiences in the comments below!