If you love Korean BBQ, spicy noodles, or anything bold and flavorful — you’ve likely tasted gochujang.
But what exactly is this deep red, savory-sweet paste that adds so much depth to Korean cuisine?
Let’s dive into the spicy world of Korean chili paste, why it’s trending globally (especially in the UAE), and how you can use it at home or try it at Mukbang Shows Restaurant.
🌶 1. What Is Gochujang, Exactly?
Gochujang (고추장) is a traditional Korean fermented chili paste made with:
- Red chili powder (gochugaru)
- Glutinous rice
- Fermented soybeans
- Salt
It’s aged for months in earthenware jars — creating a rich, spicy, sweet, and deeply umami flavor profile.
It’s thicker than sriracha, more complex than hot sauce, and a core ingredient in Korean kitchens.
🍲 2. What Does Gochujang Taste Like?
- Spicy: From the Korean red chili powder
- Sweet: Thanks to the glutinous rice fermentation
- Savory/Umami: Fermented soybeans add deep flavor
- Slightly Funky: Like miso or aged cheese — in a good way
It’s a flavor bomb that enhances meat, veggies, noodles, and soups.
🇰🇷 3. How Is Gochujang Used in Korean Cuisine?
At Mukbang Shows Restaurant, you’ll taste this chili paste in:
- Bibimbap: Mixed rice with gochujang + veggies
- Tteokbokki: Chewy rice cakes in spicy red sauce
- Korean BBQ Marinades: Especially beef bulgogi & spicy pork
- Dipping Sauce: Mixed with sesame oil, vinegar, and garlic
- Kimchi stew (Kimchi Jjigae): A go-to comfort dish
It’s not just a condiment — it’s a base, a marinade, a dressing, and a flavor enhancer.
🕌 4. Is Gochujang Halal?
Most traditional gochujang is halal-friendly, but:
- ✅ Always check the label — some mass-market versions may use alcohol in fermentation
- ✅ At Mukbang Shows Restaurant, all dishes are made with halal-certified ingredients and no pork or alcohol
✅ You can enjoy this chili paste worry-free in all our UAE locations.
🛒 5. Where to Buy Gochujang in the UAE
You can find this chili paste at:
- Korean grocery stores (e.g., 1004 Gourmet, Seoul Mart)
- Online via Amazon.ae, Noon, or local Korean food stores
- Carrefour & Lulu (import sections)
Look for brands like:
- CJ Haechandle
- Sempio
- O’Food
- Or house-made varieties (ask at Korean restaurants)
💡 Tip: Keep it in the fridge once opened — it lasts 6+ months.
🌍 7. Why Is This Chili Paste So Popular Now?
Absolutely. It’s easier than you think to cook with this ingredient.
Here are 3 easy ideas:
- Spicy Mayo: Mix with mayo + lime for burgers or fries
- Gochujang Chicken: Marinade chicken in gochujang, honey, garlic, sesame oil
- Gochujang Stir-Fry Sauce: Add to any veggie or noodle stir-fry for flavor explosion
You can even add it to your ramen or use it like BBQ sauce.
🌍 7. Why Is Gochujang So Popular Now?
- 📺 K-dramas & Korean food shows boosted awareness
- 🥢 Korean BBQ & mukbang content made it viral
- 💡 Health-conscious diners love fermented foods
- 🌶 It’s a healthier, deeper alternative to sugar-laden sauces
- 📍 It’s trending in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and beyond
At Mukbang Shows, guests often ask for extra gochujang on the side — and for good reason. It’s addictive.
🧠 FAQs: What Is Gochujang?
❓ Is gochujang very spicy?
Not extremely. It’s more balanced than fiery — spicy, sweet, and savory.
❓ Is it gluten-free?
Not always — many brands use wheat in soybeans. Look for “gluten-free” on the label if needed.
❓ How do I store it?
Refrigerate after opening. It lasts 6–12 months in a sealed container.
❓ What’s a good gochujang substitute?
Mix sriracha + miso paste + honey — but it won’t be quite the same.
❓ Do you use gochujang at Mukbang Shows Restaurant?
Yes! It’s in our bibimbap, spicy noodles, marinades, and side sauces — 100% halal, made fresh daily.
📍 Taste This Chili Paste at Mukbang Shows Restaurant
📍 Dubai – Deira
📍 Abu Dhabi – Electra & Muroor
📍 🆕 Coming Soon – JBR & WTC
✅ 100% halal
✅ Authentic Korean BBQ & seafood
✅ Gochujang in all its delicious forms
🛵 Order via Talabat, Careem, or Noon
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Experience authentic Korean flavors with gochujang in every dish.
