Gochugaru Korean Chili Flakes 1kg

Gochugaru, Korean chili flakes, is a staple ingredient in Korean cuisine and is known for its unique flavor and moderate heat. It is primarily used in the following ways:

1. Kimchi: Gochugaru is a crucial ingredient in making kimchi, the traditional Korean fermented cabbage dish. It provides both flavor and heat to the kimchi. The coarsely ground flakes of gochugaru help to season and preserve the cabbage during the fermentation process.
2. Gochujang: Gochugaru is one of the main ingredients in gochujang, a fermented Korean chili paste. When combined with other ingredients like fermented soybeans, sweeteners, and seasonings, gochugaru gives gochujang its distinctive flavor and spiciness. Gochujang is widely used as a condiment, marinade, and sauce in various Korean dishes.
3. Seasoning and garnish: Gochugaru is used as a seasoning and garnish in many Korean dishes. It adds a mild to moderate heat along with a unique smoky and slightly sweet flavor. It can be sprinkled over dishes like bibimbap (a mixed rice bowl), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), soups, stews, and stir-fries to enhance their taste and appearance.
4. Korean BBQ marinade: Gochugaru is often included in marinades for Korean BBQ. It adds heat and flavor to marinated meats such as bulgogi (marinated beef) or dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken). Gochugaru helps to give the grilled or barbecued meats their characteristic spicy and smoky taste.
5. Side dishes and banchan: Gochugaru is used in various Korean side dishes known as banchan. It can be added to dishes like spicy cucumber salad, seasoned spinach, or stir-fried vegetables to provide a touch of heat and flavor.
6. Noodles and rice dishes: Gochugaru is used in several noodle and rice dishes to add spiciness. It is a key ingredient in dishes like jjajangmyeon (black bean sauce noodles), jajangbap (black bean sauce rice), and bibim guksu (spicy mixed noodles).

Gochugaru can vary in heat level, so it’s important to adjust the amount used according to personal taste preferences. It’s worth noting that gochugaru is not typically a direct substitute for other chili flakes or powders due to its unique flavor profile, so it is best to use it specifically in Korean dishes to achieve authentic flavors.