What is Gochugaru?

Vibrant in both color and flavor, gochugaru (go-CHOO-ka-roo) is the ideal chili powder for those who want a milder kick. This essential ingredient in Korean cuisine appears in countless dishes, adding both rich flavor and a burst of color. Keep reading to find out why gochugaru deserves a spot in your spice cabinet.

How is Gochugaru Made?

Gochugaru is crafted from bright red Korean chilies, with the seeds and membranes carefully removed. These peppers are dried, and if you see the terms 'taekyung' or 'taeyangcho' on the packaging, it indicates that they were sun-dried, which generally means superior quality and flavor. The dried chilies are then ground into large flakes or sometimes finely powdered.

What Does Gochugaru Taste Like?

Despite its bold red color, gochugaru isn't as fiery as you might think. It delivers a gentle warmth, with a sweet and fruity undertone that balances out the heat. Sun-dried gochugaru varieties add a mild smokiness, enhancing its overall flavor complexity.

How to Cook With Gochugaru

Gochugaru is an essential ingredient in many iconic Korean dishes, such as kimchi, where it contributes a mild heat and vibrant red color. It also pairs with gochujang to form the base of the traditional spicy paste. Additionally, gochugaru is frequently sprinkled into soups and stews, like dakdoritang or kimchi stew, for a flavorful kick.

Gochugaru isn't just for Korean dishes. Its distinct flavor makes it perfect for adding to marinades for grilled meats, brines for pickled vegetables, or even boosting the flavor of salad dressings. It works as a milder substitute for red pepper flakes or as a direct replacement for Aleppo pepper in recipes.

Where to Buy Gochugaru

You can find gochugaru at any Korean grocery store, where you'll typically find a variety of brands, sizes, and spice levels of this pepper powder. For newcomers, it may be a bit overwhelming, so we suggest trying out a few options online to figure out what you like. Once you've settled on your favorite, shopping at your local store will be a breeze. For beginners, we recommend the Tae-kyung Gochugaru Flakes, or you can try the finer Tae-kyung Gochugaru Powder, which works well when you want the flakes to blend seamlessly into your dish.