Spice up your dinner routine with these quick and easy Spicy Gochujang Noodles. Ready in just 10 minutes, this dish combines your favorite noodles with a bold and fiery sauce that will wake up your taste buds without taking up too much time.
- Cuisine: Korean-inspired
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and effortless, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable with your choice of noodles.
- Packs a spicy punch with easily adjustable heat levels.
- Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup Korean gochujang (I am using hot gochujang): Provides depth and heat. If needed, substitute with chili paste mixed with a bit of sugar for sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds umami and saltiness to balance the spice.
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil: Lends a nutty aroma and richness, crucial for the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon honey (or use sugar, optional): Balances the heat and adds a touch of sweetness.
- Juice from ½ lime (~1 tablespoon, or more to taste): Brightens the overall flavor with acidity.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced, optional): Enhances the dish with a gentle punch of flavor.
- 8 ounces noodles (use rice, flour, egg, or ramen noodles): The base of the dish; choose based on preference.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For stir-frying the peppers and noodles.
- 1 large bell pepper (chopped): Adds a crunch and sweetness to the dish.
- 3-4 spicy chilies (chopped): Additional heat; optional based on spice tolerance.
- For Garnish: Fresh chopped scallions/green onion, toasted sesame seeds, red pepper flakes, lime wedges: Adds color and enhances the final presentation and flavor.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey or sugar, lime juice, and garlic. Ensure the elements are fully incorporated for a uniform sauce. Set aside, allowing flavors to meld together.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Boil noodles as per package instructions until just tender, typically 4-5 minutes. Drain thoroughly and place in a bowl lightly coated with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium heat. Add chopped bell pepper and chilies, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Stir Fry Everything
Add the cooked noodles to the pan, stirring for an additional 1 minute to combine with the peppers. This step warms the noodles and integrates the flavors.
Step 5: Mix and Serve
Stir in the prepared sauce, tossing to coat the noodles evenly. Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, red pepper flakes, and lime wedges for a fresh finish.
Recipe FAQs
What if I can’t find gochujang?
If gochujang isn’t available, you can substitute with a mix of chili paste and a pinch of sugar to mimic its spicy-sweet profile. Adjust to taste.
Can I make it less spicy?
To tone down the spice, use a mild gochujang or reduce the amount of spicy chilies. You can also increase the lime juice and honey for a more balanced flavor.
What other vegetables can I use?
Feel free to swap the bell pepper with other quick-cooking veggies like snap peas, carrots, or zucchini. Adjust cook times as needed for the vegetable choice.
