Name: Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 clove garlic, finely minced; 1 stalk green onion, diced (white and green parts separated); 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red chili 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; Chili oil, for drizzling

If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and packed with flavor, then this Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup is your answer. This delightful dish, infused with the rich umami of gochujang, the Korean red chili paste, is known for its bold flavor profile that balances heat and sweetness. In just 25 minutes, you can create a soul-satisfying meal that is easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve guests. The tender noodles paired with savory broth and delectable toppings make this soup a favorite for all noodle lovers.

The beauty of this Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences by modifying the amount of gochujang. Plus, it can be customized with a variety of toppings—think freshly chopped herbs, crispy vegetables, or even a dash of toasted sesame oil. Not only is it a treat for your taste buds, but it’s also wonderfully nourishing and makes a perfect meal by itself or as part of a larger spread.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup

Quick and Easy: Whipping up this soup takes just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.
Customizable: Adjust the spice and toppings to fit your personal preferences.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of gochujang, garlic, and aromatic ingredients creates a hearty, satisfying soup.
Nourishing: With fresh ingredients and a delicious broth, this soup is both healthy and fulfilling.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s prepare our kitchen for a smooth cooking experience. Gather your essential tools: a sturdy saucepan, a heatproof bowl, a mixing spoon, and a cooking pot for the noodles. Make sure to set up your workspace by chopping the garlic and green onions in advance, which will save you time and ensure that everything is prepped for swift assembly.

Also, have your chicken, beef, or vegetable broth ready, as well as a timer for cooking the noodles. If you plan to add additional toppings, like sesame seeds or a perfectly jammy egg, now’s the time to prep those, too. This organizational step will make it easier to follow along with the recipe and will help in creating a cohesive dish.

Ingredients

1 clove garlic, finely minced
1 stalk green onion, diced (white and green parts separated)
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red chili 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
Chili oil, for drizzling

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by boiling the noodles according to the package instructions until they reach a tender texture. Be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking. Once they’re ready, drain them well in a colander and set them aside while you prepare the soup base. Having your noodles cooked in advance allows for quick assembly later.

Step 2: Make the Flavored Oil

Next, take a heatproof bowl and combine the minced garlic, diced white parts of the green onion, and sugar. In a saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil over high heat until it begins to shimmer and smoke lightly. Carefully pour the hot oil over the garlic mixture. This step activates the flavors, allowing the garlic to soften while infusing the oil with aromatic goodness.

Step 3: Prepare the Soup Base

To the bowl with the oil, add the gochujang, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir the ingredients thoroughly to create a rich and cohesive mixture. This flavorful blend is the heart of your soup, combining the umami of the oyster sauce with the sweetness and heat of gochujang.

Step 4: Combine with Broth

Now, it’s time to pour the hot chicken, beef, or vegetable broth into the bowl. Mix everything well until fully combined. This will result in a fragrant and savory broth that acts as the support for your noodles, creating a delicious base for your soup.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

Finally, add the drained noodles into the soup base and mix gently to ensure the noodles are well-coated with the spicy broth. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with halved eggs, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, the green tops of your sliced spring onion, and a drizzle of chili oil. Serve immediately while hot.

Variations

Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp for extra protein.
Vegetables: Incorporate chopped bok choy, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with different spices such as black sesame seeds or a pinch of red pepper flakes to enhance the heat.

Cooking Notes

This soup can be prepared vegetarian by simply swapping the broth for vegetable broth and omitting the oyster sauce.
For those who enjoy different textures, consider adding crunchy vegetables like bean sprouts or shredded carrots as toppings.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a side of crispy spring rolls or gyoza for a delightful meal experience.
Add a refreshing cucumber salad to balance out the spiciness of the soup.

Tips

To achieve the perfect jammy egg, boil it for exactly 6–7 minutes, then cool it in ice water before peeling.
Adjust the level of gochujang based on your heat tolerance; start with less if you’re unsure.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 12 grams
Sodium: 800 milligrams

FAQs

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the wheat noodles with gluten-free noodles and ensure that the soy sauce and oyster sauce are gluten-free versions.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I freeze Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup?

For best results, it’s recommended to freeze the soup base without the noodles. Cooked noodles may become mushy when frozen and thawed.

What can I substitute for gochujang?

If you don’t have gochujang, you can try using a mixture of miso paste and red chili flakes as a substitute, though the flavor will vary.

Conclusion

This Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience for the senses, combining a fusion of textures and flavors that are sure to warm your heart. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner just exploring the world of Asian cuisine, this recipe empowers you to create something spectacular from your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your experiences or variations in the comments below—how did you make it your own? Enjoy the nourishment and warmth of this bowl of joy today!