Korean BBQ Sauce Gochujang
Korean BBQ sauce, particularly Gochujang, is a spicy, savory, and slightly sweet condiment made from red chili paste, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. It is a staple in Korean cuisine, known for its rich, complex flavor and versatility in various dishes.
Equipment
- Medium mixing bowl
- Small whisk
- Medium saucepan
- Stirring spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup gochujang Korean red chili paste
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Mirin sweet rice wine
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger minced
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 green onions finely chopped
Instructions
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, Mirin, and sesame oil. Stirring these ingredients together ensures a smooth and well-blended base for sauce.
- Next, add honey, minced garlic, and minced ginger to the bowl. These ingredients not only add sweetness but also introduce a depth of flavor that complements the spiciness of the gochujang.
- Then mix in the toasted sesame seeds. Their nutty flavor and slight crunch add an extra layer of texture and taste to the sauce.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together water and cornstarch until the cornstarch is completely dissolved. Gradually, pour this mixture into the sauce while stirring continuously to avoid any lumps. This step helps achieve the perfect thickness.
- Transfer the mixture to a medium saucepan and cook it over medium heat, stirring frequently. Within 5-7 minutes, the sauce begins to thicken and bubble. Then remove it from the heat once it reaches the desired consistency.
- Finally, I stir in the finely chopped green onions. This last step adds a fresh, vibrant flavor to the sauce, making it ready to serve.
Notes
For the best results, use high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to gochujang and soy sauce. The quality of these key ingredients significantly impacts the final flavor of the sauce.