What Is Gochugaru? A Guide to Korean Chili Flakes

Gochugaru (고추가루) is a key ingredient in Korean cuisine, adding both heat and depth of flavour to a variety of dishes. With a unique combination of spicy, sweet, and slightly smoky notes, gochugaru has a distinct taste that elevates any dish. If you’ve ever wondered how to use gochugaru, what it’s made of, or how it differs from other chilli flakes, this guide will answer all your questions. Available at Hello Asia, gochugaru is your new pantry essential if you love cooking Korean dishes or adding a touch of spice to your meals.

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1. What is Gochugaru?

Gochugaru (pronounced "go-chew-gah-roo") is made from sun-dried red chilli peppers that are ground into coarse or fine flakes. This chilli powder is a staple in Korean cooking, widely used in everything from stews to side dishes. The peppers used are typically less spicy than other varieties, giving gochugaru a balanced, warm flavour with a hint of sweetness.

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2. Types of Gochugaru

There are two main types of gochugaru, each used for different purposes:

• Fine Gochugaru: Often used in sauces and soups for a smoother texture and richer colour.
• Coarse Gochugaru: Commonly used for kimchi and other fermented dishes, adding texture and a pleasant pop of spice.

Whether you’re making kimchi or Korean BBQ marinades, selecting the right type of gochugaru can make all the difference in your dish’s flavour and appearance.

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3. How Is Gochugaru Used in Korean Cooking?

Gochugaru plays a starring role in many Korean dishes:

• Kimchi: The essential ingredient for giving kimchi its fiery colour and unique flavour.
• Tteokbokki: Adds spice and colour to the chewy, savoury rice cakes in this street food favourite.
• Gochujang: Gochugaru is a core ingredient in gochujang, the famous Korean chilli paste.
• Soups and Stews: It’s also used in dishes like sundubu jjigae (soft tofu stew) and kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew) for added heat and depth.

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4. What Makes Gochugaru Different from Other Chili Flakes?

Gochugaru has a unique combination of smoky, slightly fruity, and spicy flavours that make it distinct from other chilli flakes. Unlike red pepper flakes, which often have seeds and a sharper, more immediate heat, gochugaru is milder and has a more complex, lingering flavour. Its heat level is moderate, ranging from 4,000-8,000 Scoville units, making it approachable for most spice levels.

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5. Where to Buy and How to Store Gochugaru

Get your gochugaru right here in our store!

Freshness is key, as gochugaru can lose its potency over time. Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain its vibrant colour and flavour for months.

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Conclusion

Gochugaru is a versatile and essential spice for anyone interested in exploring Korean cuisine or simply adding a new, flavourful spice to their pantry. With its balanced heat, fruity undertones, and distinct red colour, it’s no wonder gochugaru is a favourite ingredient in Korean kitchens. Now you have all the info you need to start cooking with this iconic Korean chilli flake today!