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Bowl of sweet and spicy Korean Gochujang noodles garnished with vegetables.

Sweet And Spicy Korean Gochujang Noodles

A delightful blend of heat and sweetness, these noodles feature a punchy combination of Gochujang and Hoisin sauce, making them the ultimate comfort food.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Noodles
  • 8 ounces uncooked rice noodles Flat rice noodles recommended but vermicelli can be used for a lighter texture.
Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons Gochujang paste Key for authentic flavor; opt for a high-quality brand.
  • 3 tablespoons Hoisin sauce Adds sweetness and depth; Lee Kum Kee's brand is recommended.
  • 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce Enhances umami and color.
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice Fresh-squeezed is best.
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar Balances the heat from the Gochujang.
Vegetables
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage Can be swapped with bok choy.
  • ½ cup thinly sliced mixed bell peppers Use any colors you prefer.
  • ½ cup shredded carrots Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic Enhances the flavor.
Oils
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil For drizzling at the end for richness.
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil Used for sautéing; neutral oils like canola work well.

Method
 

Cook The Noodles
  1. In a large pot of boiling water, add the rice noodles and cook according to package instructions (about 5-7 minutes) until al dente.
  2. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
  3. Drizzle with a little oil to prevent sticking.
Make The Sauce
  1. In a bowl, whisk together the Gochujang, Hoisin sauce, dark soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar until blended.
Sauté The Veggies
  1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Toss in the bell peppers, cabbage, and carrots, stirring frequently for about 3-4 minutes until tender yet vibrant.
Combine
  1. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet along with the sauce. Toss for 2-3 minutes to soak in flavors.
  2. If it looks a little dry, add a splash of water or extra oil.
Finish Off
  1. Drizzle sesame oil over the noodles, give it a final stir, and serve hot.
  2. Garnish with sesame seeds or fresh coriander if desired.

Notes

Always taste as you go to adjust spice and sweetness. You can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it to save time.