Introduction to Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you often crave a delicious meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Enter my Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup! This dish is the perfect quick solution for busy days or a cozy night in. The rich, spicy flavors dance in your mouth, bringing warmth and comfort like a hug on a chilly evening. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up after a long day, making it a go-to recipe for busy moms and professionals. Trust me; this bowl of happiness will impress everyone at your table!
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup
This Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup is a lifesaver for hectic days. With just a quick prep time and minimal cooking, you get a hearty meal ready in under 30 minutes! The bold flavors are sure to tantalize your taste buds, while the nutritious ingredients keep your energy up. It’s flexible, too—you can easily modify toppings to delight even discerning eaters. This soup truly brings joy to the dinner table in a snap!
Ingredients for Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup
When it comes to my Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup, the ingredients are simple yet packed with flavor. Each one plays a key role in making your dish both delicious and comforting. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Garlic: A clove of finely minced garlic adds that essential aromatic quality and depth to the soup.
- Green Onion: Diced green onions, both white and green parts, bring a fresh crunch and a slight bite, balancing the robust flavors.
- Sugar: Just a teaspoon helps round out the spice, making every flavor pop without being overly sweet.
- Gochujang: This Korean red chili paste delivers the quintessential heat and umami flavor, transforming an ordinary broth into something extraordinary.
- Oyster Sauce: Adds a deliciously savory note. For a vegetarian version, simply swap it for a plant-based alternative.
- Soy Sauce: Light soy sauce enhances the salty undertone. Keep in mind, low-sodium options are available for a healthier twist.
- Rice Vinegar: A splash brings brightness to the soup, balancing the richer flavors with its tangy notes.
- Broth: Chicken, beef, or vegetable broth acts as a comforting base, setting up your soup’s heartiness. Opt for homemade if you can!
- Wheat Noodles: Use your favorite type of wheat noodles, cooked and drained, for that perfect texture that soaks up all the delicious soup.
- Egg: A jammy or hard-boiled egg adds richness and protein, making each bowl even more satisfying.
- Sesame Seeds: Lightly toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty crunch on top, elevating the soup’s visual appeal.
- Chili Oil: For those who crave even more heat, a drizzle of chili oil just before serving adds that extra kick!
You’ll find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, and they’re also available for printing. Let’s gather these delightful ingredients and get ready to whip up something magical!
How to Make Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup
Step 1 – Prepare the Noodles
Start by boiling your wheat noodles according to the package instructions until they’re tender. This usually takes just a few minutes. Don’t rush this step; you want them perfectly cooked for the best texture. Once they’re al dente, drain them well and set them aside. Standing in a warm pot waiting for the next steps, these noodles are like a cozy blanket waiting to embrace the rich broth. Trust me, they deserve this moment!
Step 2 – Create the Garlic-Oil Mixture
In a heatproof bowl, combine the minced garlic, diced white parts of green onion, and sugar. This combination is where the magic begins! Heat one tablespoon of neutral oil in a saucepan over high heat until it’s smoking hot—like the sun on a summer day. Carefully pour the oil over the garlic mixture. You’ll hear that lovely sizzle, releasing all the aroma. This step truly unleashes the flavors, ensuring your soup is packed with a savory essence!
Step 3 – Mix the Flavor Base
Now, it’s time to elevate the soup’s taste. Add the gochujang, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, and rice vinegar to the garlic mixture. These ingredients are like a symphony of flavors, blending in perfect harmony. Gochujang adds warmth, while the oyster sauce deepens the umami. The soy sauce brings saltiness, and rice vinegar cuts through the richness with a hint of tang. Stir it all together, creating a vibrant flavor base that’ll dance in your taste buds!
Step 4 – Combine with Broth
Pour in the hot broth of your choice—chicken, beef, or vegetable—and stir well. Aim for a harmonious fusion of flavors. This is where your Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup begins to come alive, with the rich broth mingling beautifully with those intense flavors from earlier. Mixing well ensures that each spoonful bursts with flavor, making it a true comfort food experience. Get ready for that delightful aroma to fill your kitchen!
Step 5 – Assemble the Soup
Next, add the cooked noodles right into the flavorful broth. This is a joyous moment; it’s like reuniting long-lost friends. Top your soup with the halved egg, sprinkle some sesame seeds, and garnish with the green tops of the spring onion for a pop of color. For those who love a kick, drizzle some chili oil on top before serving. It not only adds heat but also turns your bowl into a work of culinary art. Serve hot and watch everyone dig in eagerly!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save even more time while cooking.
- Don’t skip the hot oil step; it truly enhances the flavors in your soup.
- Taste as you go! Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less gochujang.
- Use kitchen shears to easily slice the cooked egg or any herbs.
- Experiment with different toppings, from sliced mushrooms to fresh cilantro!
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan – Any sturdy pot will do if you don’t have a saucepan.
- Heatproof bowl – A glass or ceramic bowl works great for mixing ingredients.
- Wooden spoon – Feel free to use any stirring utensil you have at home.
- Measuring spoons – You can estimate if you don’t have them on hand.
- Colander – A fine-mesh sieve or a clean kitchen towel can serve as substitutes.
Variations for Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup
- Vegetable Delight: Add your favorite veggies, like spinach, bok choy, or bell peppers, for a nutritious twist.
- Protein Power: Boost the protein factor by including tofu, shredded chicken, or beef strips for a heartier meal.
- Seafood Sensation: Swap in shrimp or sliced fish for a refreshing take on this classic soup.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use rice noodles instead of wheat noodles to cater to gluten sensitivities.
- Spice Level: Amp up the heat with extra gochujang or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes based on your taste preference.
- Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an aromatic layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup with crusty bread for a satisfying crunch.
- Serve alongside a light cucumber salad to refresh your palate.
- Enjoy with a cold, crisp beer or iced green tea to balance the heat.
- For a touch of elegance, garnish with lime wedges and fresh herbs.
FAQs about Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup
Can I make Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! To create a vegetarian version of this spicy soup, simply swap out the broth for vegetable broth and omit the oyster sauce. You could also replace it with a plant-based alternative for that savory kick!
What do I do if I don’t have gochujang?
If you can’t find gochujang, you can create a substitute using a mix of red chili paste, miso, and a bit of sugar. While it might not be exactly the same, it will still provide some delicious heat to your soup.
How can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
Adjusting the spice level is easy! You can simply add more gochujang for extra heat or reduce it for a milder flavor. Tasting as you mix is the best way to find your perfect balance!
Can I store leftovers, and how should I reheat them?
Yes, you can store leftover Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to keep the noodles from becoming too soft.
What toppings can I use for additional flavor?
You can get creative with toppings! Consider trying sliced sesame oil marinated mushrooms, fresh herbs like cilantro or basil, or even crunchy bean sprouts for added texture. The options are endless!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about a bowl of Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup. It warms the soul and brings everyone around the table, all while being so simple to prepare. In less than half an hour, you have a delightful meal brimming with flavor and comfort. I love how this recipe can be tailored to fit any palate and dietary need. Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy kick or looking for a cozy, nourishing hug in a bowl, this soup is here to make your day a little brighter. Dive in, and enjoy every spoonful!
Print
Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A spicy and flavorful noodle soup featuring gochujang and various toppings for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 1 stalk green onion, diced (white and green parts separated)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red chilli paste)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 0.5 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 0.5 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 360 millilitres chicken, beef, or vegetable broth
- 1 portion wheat noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 jammy or hard-boiled egg, halved
- Sesame seeds, to garnish
- Chilli oil, for drizzling
Instructions
- Boil the noodles according to package instructions until tender. Drain well and set aside.
- Place minced garlic, diced green onion (both white and green parts), and sugar in a heatproof bowl.
- Heat 1 tablespoon neutral oil in a saucepan over high heat until smoking hot, about 1–2 minutes. Immediately pour the oil over the garlic, green onion, and sugar mixture.
- Add gochujang, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, and rice vinegar to the bowl. Stir thoroughly to combine.
- Pour the hot broth into the bowl, mixing well to create a cohesive soup base.
- Add the cooked noodles to the soup. Top with halved egg, sesame seeds, sliced green tops of spring onion, and a drizzle of chilli oil. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- This soup can be tailored to your spice preference by adjusting the amount of gochujang.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and skip the oyster sauce or replace it with a vegetarian alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
