Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sweet and Spicy Korean Gochujang Noodles deliver a perfect balance of bold flavors—savory, sweet, tangy, and spicy. Featuring chewy noodles coated in a rich gochujang sauce, this dish is quick, satisfying, and loaded with umami. It’s an easy way to enjoy Korean-inspired flavors at home, perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a flavorful comfort meal.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
noodles (udon, ramen, or rice noodles)gochujang (Korean red chili paste)soy saucerice vinegarhoney or brown sugargarlicgingersesame oilscallionssesame seedscarrotscucumber (optional for topping)
directions
Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.
Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sauce mixture and simmer for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly thickened.
Toss the cooked noodles into the sauce, stirring well to coat evenly.
Serve hot, garnished with sliced scallions, sesame seeds, and optional julienned carrots or cucumber for crunch.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 2 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes
Variations
Add stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture.
Top with a fried or soft-boiled egg for added richness.
Use tofu, chicken, or shrimp for a protein boost.
Replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly version.
Add a splash of lime juice for a tangy kick.
storage/reheating
Store leftover noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or sesame oil to loosen the sauce.Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
What is gochujang?
Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste made from red chili, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt.
Is this dish very spicy?
It’s moderately spicy. Adjust the amount of gochujang to suit your heat preference.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Can I serve it cold?
Absolutely, these noodles can also be enjoyed cold as a spicy noodle salad.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce and noodles separately and mix when ready to serve for the best texture.
Are these noodles kid-friendly?
If kids are sensitive to spice, reduce the gochujang or use a milder chili paste.
Conclusion
Sweet and Spicy Korean Gochujang Noodles are a bold and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Korean cuisine right to your table. With a quick prep and endless customization options, it’s a satisfying and vibrant meal you’ll want to make again and again.
PrintSweet And Spicy Korean Gochujang Noodles
Noodles tossed in a bold and flavorful sweet‑and‑spicy Korean gochujang sauce, balanced with savory aromatics and fresh garnishes—perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling, Stir‑Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) dried wheat or ramen noodles
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons honey or sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced, plus more for garnish
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
- Optional: thinly sliced cucumber or carrot for freshness
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking; set aside.
- In a bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey (or sugar), garlic, and ginger until smooth.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add green onion and cook 1 minute until aromatic.
- Add the gochujang sauce mixture and stir to warm through, about 30 seconds.
- Add the cooked noodles to the pan. Toss thoroughly to coat the noodles in the sauce and heat through, about 2–3 minutes.
- If desired, stir in thinly sliced cucumber or carrot just before removing from heat for a fresh crunch.
- Divide into bowls. Garnish with extra green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Adjust heat by adding more honey/sugar for sweetness or extra gochujang for spice.
- For protein, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or a soft‑boiled egg.
- Make‐ahead tip: prepare sauce ahead and toss with noodles just before serving.
- Freeze‑dried or fresh garnishes like sliced radish or bean sprouts add crunch and color.
- Use gluten‑free noodles or tamari to make this gluten‑free.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup noodles
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg