10 SUBSTITUTES FOR GOCHUJANG (+ GOCHUJANG SAUCE RECIPE)

Here are 10 substitutes for gochujang (+ a gochujang sauce recipe). Use it for your next stir fry, dipping sauce, sushi tacos, or fried rice.

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• IS GOCHUHANG JUST CHILI PASTE?
• WHAT IS GOCHUGAN MADE WITH?
• 10 SUBSTITUTES FOR GOCHUHANG
• ❓FAQS?

If you’ve ever dipped into a fiery bowl of bibimbap, slurped spicy Korean noodles, or licked your fingers clean after sticky gochujang chicken wings, then you already know how delicious gochujang is.

But what if your jar runs dry mid-recipe? Or you're after a mild substitute for a less spicy dinner? No stress—we’ve got you covered with the what, why, and how-to-replace when it comes to this spicy paste.

IS GOCHUHANG JUST CHILI PASTE?

Gochujang (pronounced go-choo-jang) is a thick, fermented Korean chili paste that’s the backbone of many Korean dishes—from kimchi stew to spicy tofu stir-fry. It’s made by blending red chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt—then letting it age until the flavors deepen into a bold, sticky, umami bomb.

The result? A balance of sweet, savory, and spicy that’s unlike any other sauce in your pantry. And yes, it’s versatile enough for beef, chicken, vegetables, or even stirred into a spicy pasta dish with a squeeze of lemon. Or add it to aoli. (Game changer)

WHAT IS GOCHUGAN MADE WITH?

• Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) – brings the heat
• Glutinous rice – adds sweetness and stickiness
• Fermented soybeans – for that deep umami flavor
• Salt – to balance and preserve
• Time – it’s aged, giving it a flavor that no shortcut can truly replicate

10 SUBSTITUTES FOR GOCHUHANG

1. Red Curry Paste (Thai)

A flavorful swap, especially for noodles and chicken dishes. It has a different spice profile but brings boldness and color. Add a dash of soy sauce and a pinch of sugar to mimic gochujang’s depth.

✅ Great in: stir-fries, quinoa bowls, and vegetables
🔥 Spice Level: Medium

2. Sriracha + Miso Paste

Mix 1 tablespoon of sriracha with 1 teaspoon of white miso paste and a pinch of sugar for a close DIY Korean chili paste vibe. Sriracha brings the heat; miso brings the umami.

✅ Great in: pasta, dipping sauce, or as a marinade
🔥 Spice Level: Hot

3. Tomato Paste + Chili Flakes + Soy Sauce

This trio makes a tasty, accessible replacement. Use it when you want a mild substitute that’s pantry-friendly. Add a drop of maple syrup or honey if you like it sweet.

✅ Great in: tofu bowls, chicken marinades
🔥 Spice Level: Customizable

4. Harissa

This North African chili paste brings serious flavor with a garlicky kick. While not fermented, it's bold and complex—perfect for recipes that can handle a flavor twist.

✅ Great in: grilled vegetables, beef, or even kimchi tacos
🔥 Spice Level: Medium to Hot

5. Sambal Oelek

This Indonesian hot pepper paste is straight-up chili goodness. It’s thinner and lacks sweetness, but you can stir in a touch of miso or sugar to round it out.

✅ Great in: spicy soups, stir-fried noodles, or bibimbap bowls
🔥 Spice Level: Hot

6. Chili Garlic Sauce

If you're after convenience, this one’s a fridge staple. It’s chunkier than gochujang but works in a pinch. Add a splash of soy and sugar for balance.

✅ Great in: vegan pasta, beef marinades, or tofu wraps
🔥 Spice Level: Medium

7. Doenjang + Chili Flakes

Doenjang is Korean fermented soybean paste—gochujang’s cousin. Add some chili flakes, sugar, and oil, and you’ve got a funky, savory paste that feels authentic.

✅ Great in: soups, Japanese-inspired bowls, or healthy stir-fries
🔥 Spice Level: Mellow to Hot

8. Chipotle in Adobo

For a smoky take, blend up some chipotle peppers and adobo sauce. It’s rich, spicy, and adds deep flavor to anything from chicken to roasted vegetables.

✅ Great in: tacos, vegan wraps, or smoky sauce bases
🔥 Spice Level: Hot and smoky

9. Sweet Chili Sauce + Sriracha

Mix equal parts for a sweet and spicy combo. It lacks the fermented note but makes a solid alternative for glazes and sauces.

✅ Great in: tofu, glazes, or over rice
🔥 Spice Level: Mild to Medium

❓FAQS?

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