Introduction to Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup
Let me tell you about a dish that’s become my secret weapon in the kitchen: Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup. This recipe is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings or when life gets a bit hectic. If you’re like me, juggling a million things, you’ll appreciate how quickly this comforting dish comes together. Imagine sitting with your loved ones, savoring each spoonful, and sharing stories over a steaming bowl of goodness. This soup is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful escape that you can whip up in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup
This Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup is a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s not just quick to make, taking only about 25 minutes from start to finish, but it also delivers a flavor punch that leaves everyone asking for seconds. The versatile ingredients make it easy to adapt to your family’s tastes, ensuring happy faces at the dinner table. Talk about a win-win!
Ingredients for Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup
Gather these simple but flavorful ingredients to create your Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup. Each component plays a crucial role, enhancing the overall taste of this dish:
- Garlic: One clove, minced adds aromatic depth.
- Green Onion: Diced stalks bring fresh flavor; use the white and green parts separately for layered taste.
- Sugar: Just a teaspoon to balance the spiciness of the gochujang beautifully.
- Gochujang: A tablespoon of this Korean chili paste provides that essential spicy kick and umami richness.
- Oyster Sauce: Adds a savory sweetness; substitute with mushroom soy sauce for a vegetarian version.
- Soy Sauce: Light soy sauce contributes saltiness, enhancing the flavor profile.
- Rice Vinegar: A splash brightens the soup with its tangy note.
- Broth: Use chicken, beef, or vegetable broth (about 360 milliliters) as the soup base for a rich flavor.
- Wheat Noodles: One portion will serve as the hearty backbone of the soup; cook them as per package directions.
- Egg: A jammy or hard-boiled egg, halved, makes for a wonderful topping, adding creaminess.
- Sesame Seeds: For garnish, they add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Chili Oil: Drizzle this spicy oil to elevate the soup’s heat, adjusting to taste.
If you’re curious about exact quantities, you can find this at the bottom of the article, along with a convenient print option for your next cooking adventure!
How to Make Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup
Ready to dive into the delicious world of Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup? With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll be enjoying a bowl bursting with flavor. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
First, boil the noodles according to package instructions until tender. It’s important not to overcook them, or they’ll turn mushy in the soup.
Once they’re just right, drain them well and set them aside. Keeping them separate makes sure they don’t stick together as they wait for their moment to shine.
Step 2: Mix Garlic and Green Onions
Next up, grab a heatproof bowl and place the minced garlic into it. Add the diced green onion, separating the white part from the green part, and then sprinkle in the sugar.
This sugar will help balance the heat of the gochujang later. You’ll want the mixture to be fragrant and enticing!
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Now, heat one tablespoon of neutral oil in a saucepan over high heat. Watch it closely; you want it to get smoking hot, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes.
Once it’s ready, carefully pour the hot oil over your garlic and green onion mixture. Listen for that satisfying sizzle—it means you’re on the right track!
Step 4: Combine Sauces
Add the gochujang, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, and rice vinegar to the bowl. Use a spoon to stir thoroughly until everything is fully combined.
This step is crucial as it helps create that rich, complex flavor that makes this soup irresistible!
Step 5: Create the Soup Base
Next, pour the hot broth into the bowl with your sauce mixture. Stir well to mix everything into a cohesive soup base. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and it’s hard not to be excited!
This broth is where all the flavors will meld together, creating a scrumptious foundation for your soup.
Step 6: Add Noodles and Garnish
Now, it’s time to add the cooked noodles into the soup. Gently toss them to coat in the flavorful broth.
Top everything with your halved egg, sprinkle sesame seeds, and add the sliced green tops of those spring onions. Don’t forget a drizzle of chili oil for an extra kick!
Serve immediately while it’s hot, and get ready for a comforting meal that’s sure to warm your heart!
Tips for Success
- Don’t rush the broth; let it heat thoroughly to maximize flavor.
- For a creamier texture, try adding a dollop of miso or tahini.
- Mix the noodles right before serving; this keeps them from becoming soggy.
- Experiment with toppings like extra vegetables or tofu for added nutrition.
- Adjust the gochujang amount for a perfect spice level tailored to your family.
Equipment Needed
- Large saucepan: Any size pot will do!
- Heatproof bowl: A glass or mixing bowl works well.
- Colander: Use for draining cooked noodles; a fine mesh might be handy too.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing ingredients and stirring.
- Measuring spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient portions.
Variations of Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup
- Vegetable-Loaded: Add your favorite veggies like spinach, bok choy, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Protein-Packed: Incorporate shredded chicken, tofu, or shrimp to give your soup a hearty twist.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional wheat noodles with rice noodles or zucchini noodles for a gluten-free delight.
- Coconut-Curry Fusion: Mix in a tablespoon of coconut milk and a dash of curry powder for a rich, creamy soup that’s out of this world.
- Spicy Seafood: Add a scoop of your favorite seafood, such as mussels or crab, for an ocean-inspired flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your soup with crisp, freshly baked bread for a comforting meal.
- Serve with pickled vegetables for a delightful crunch.
- For drinks, a chilled sparkling water or ginger ale complements the spicy flavors well.
- Garnish with extra green onions and a wedge of lime for a fresh finish.
FAQs about Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup
Can I make Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just replace the oyster sauce with mushroom soy sauce. This gives you that umami flavor without the seafood, keeping it deliciously vegetarian!
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you want less heat, simply reduce the amount of gochujang. Start with a small spoonful and adjust as necessary. You can always add more if you crave a spicy kick!
What type of noodles should I use?
Wheat noodles work great, but feel free to experiment with rice noodles or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. It’s all about what you enjoy!
Can I store leftovers?
Sure thing! Keep the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The noodles may soak up the broth, so add a splash of broth when reheating.
What goes well with Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup?
I love pairing this soup with some crisp, pickled vegetables or a simple side salad. For drinks, a refreshing fizzy beverage does wonders in balancing the heat!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a chilly day. The delightful blend of flavors dances on your palate, bringing comfort that nourishes both body and soul. As you slurp those delicious noodles, there’s a moment of pure joy shared with family and friends, connecting over good food and laughter. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a journey into heartwarming bites and happy moments. So, grab your ingredients, and let this soup become a cherished part of your culinary adventures. You won’t regret it!
Print
Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful and spicy noodle soup with Korean gochujang that is perfect for comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 1 stalk green onion, diced, white and green parts separated
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red chilli paste)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 0.5 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 0.5 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 360 millilitres chicken, beef, or vegetable broth
- 1 portion wheat noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 jammy or hard-boiled egg, halved
- Sesame seeds, to garnish
- Chilli oil, for drizzling
Instructions
- Boil the noodles according to package instructions until tender. Drain well and set aside.
- Place minced garlic, diced green onion (both white and green parts), and sugar in a heatproof bowl.
- Heat 1 tablespoon neutral oil in a saucepan over high heat until smoking hot, about 1–2 minutes. Immediately pour the oil over the garlic, green onion, and sugar mixture.
- Add gochujang, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, and rice vinegar to the bowl. Stir thoroughly to combine.
- Pour the hot broth into the bowl, mixing well to create a cohesive soup base.
- Add the cooked noodles to the soup. Top with halved egg, sesame seeds, sliced green tops of spring onion, and a drizzle of chilli oil. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less gochujang.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute oyster sauce with mushroom soy sauce.
- Chilli oil can be added to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
