This gochujang noodle recipe is ultra comforting and satisfying for a quick weeknight dinner. It's a blend of authentic Korean ingredients with tender udon noodles. These noodles are bold, spicy, and the gochujang paste adds the umami flavor depth. This dish is so easy to customize. You can cater your gochujang noodles to your spice preferences or whatever veggies you have on hand.
INGREDIENTS
350gramsUdon noodlesuncooked
1tablespoonavocado oil
½cupscallionschopped
2cupsshiitake mushroomssliced
½cupyellow bell peppersliced
½cupred bell peppersliced
thai basilto garnish
white sesame seedsto garnish
Gochujang Sauce
1tablespoonvegan butter
1tablespoongarlic minced
1tablespoongochujang paste
1tablespoonKorean chili pepper flakes (gochugaru)
2tablespoonsoy saucelow sodium
2tablespoonmaple syrup
1tablespoonmirin
¼cuphot water
METHOD
Chop all vegetables, as desired.Keep the white part of the chopped scallions (about ¼ cup) separate from the green part. The white part will be used for cooking and the green part will be used for garnishing.
Cook udon noodles per package instructions. Then rise under cold water and set aside. Carefully scoop out ¼ cup of the hot noodle water and set aside. Then drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to prevent sticking. Note: Cooked noodles measure to about 3 cups.
To make the sauce - Place the vegan butter, Korean chili flakes, gochujang paste, garlic, and the reserved hot noodle water in a glass or jar. Whisk together until it forms a sauce-like consistency, then stir in the mirin, soy sauce, and maple syrup.
Heat oil in a pot over low-medium heat. Then sauté chopped scallions (remember, only the white part) and mushrooms. Sauté for 2-3 minutes.
Next add all the bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes.
Give the noodles a quick rise under cold water again before adding them. This helps the noodles from sticking together. Add the noodles and the gochujang sauce in with the sautéed vegetables and gently toss together.
Remove from heat and garnished with the reserved scallions (green part), Thai basil leaves, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
NOTES
Noodle Preparation: Ensure the noodles are cooked al dente and rinsed under cold water to prevent sticking.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor.
Proper Storage: Store the sauce separately from the noodles if you’re preparing this dish in advance.
Low Heat: Cook the sauce on low heat to prevent burning the gochujang.