This quick and easy Korean-inspired Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup is a 10-minute recipe filled with savory and aromatic flavors that will warm you up from the inside out. 

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

Soup:

• 2 cloves garlic, crushed, minced, or grated
• 2 green onions, diced or minced (white and green parts separated)
• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 2 cups broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable)

Other Ingredients:

• 2 servings noodles of choice
• 2 hard-boiled or jammy eggs
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Chili oil, for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the Noodles: Boil the noodles according to package instructions until cooked. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Aromatics: In a heatproof bowl, combine the minced garlic, white parts of the green onions, and sugar.
3. Infuse the Oil: Heat a neutral oil in a pot over high heat until it reaches its smoking point (1-2 minutes). Carefully pour the hot oil over the garlic mixture in the bowl to release the aromatics.
4. Create the Soup Base: Add the gochujang, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, and rice vinegar to the bowl. Mix well to combine.
5. Add the Broth: Pour the hot broth into the bowl with the sauce mixture, stirring well to ensure everything is incorporated.
6. Assemble the Soup: Divide the cooked noodles between serving bowls. Pour the hot soup over the noodles.
7. Garnish and Serve: Top each bowl with halved eggs, sesame seeds, the green parts of the green onions, and a drizzle of chili oil. Serve immediately while hot.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 400-450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 60-70g
• Protein: 15-20g
• Fat: 10-15g
• Sodium: Varies depending on broth and soy sauce used

What Makes This Noodle Soup Special?

The uniqueness of this Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup lies in its simplicity and depth of flavor. Despite requiring minimal ingredients, each component plays a crucial role in elevating the dish. Gochujang is the star of the recipe, offering a distinct spicy-sweet depth that sets Korean cuisine apart. Unlike simple chili sauces, gochujang is rich, slightly smoky, and slightly sweet due to its fermentation process. When combined with garlic, green onions, and soy-based seasonings, it creates a complex, umami-rich broth that enhances the overall dish. Another element that makes this soup stand out is its versatility. While the recipe follows a standard structure, it can be easily customized based on personal preferences. Whether you prefer a milder version, extra heat, or additional protein, this noodle soup can be adapted to suit individual tastes. The simplicity of the recipe also allows for creative add-ons such as mushrooms, tofu, shrimp, or shredded chicken, making it a flexible dish for various dietary needs.

The Role of Gochujang in Korean Cuisine

Gochujang is one of the most essential condiments in Korean cooking. It is made from red chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt, which are then aged for months or even years to develop their characteristic deep flavor. This ingredient is commonly used in a variety of Korean dishes, including stews, marinades, and dipping sauces. Unlike regular hot sauces, gochujang offers a more rounded heat with a hint of sweetness and umami, making it a key component in dishes that require a complex flavor base. In this Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup, gochujang acts as the backbone of the broth, giving it a bold red hue and a distinctively deep and spicy taste. The paste is not just about heat; it also contributes to the soup’s thickness and consistency, providing a velvety texture that coats the noodles beautifully. While it has a unique flavor profile, gochujang pairs exceptionally well with garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil, all of which are commonly found in Korean recipes.

A Perfect Balance of Spice and Comfort

One of the best things about this noodle soup is that it balances spiciness with a comforting warmth. While the gochujang delivers a kick of heat, the broth itself is well-rounded and savory. The addition of sugar in the recipe helps to tone down the spice slightly, while the use of rice vinegar adds a subtle tang that balances the richness of the broth. The interplay of flavors makes each bite exciting and satisfying, making this soup an excellent dish for spice lovers who also appreciate depth in their meals. Another aspect of this soup’s comforting nature is the texture. The noodles soak up the flavorful broth, offering a chewy and satisfying bite.

Customizing the Recipe to Your Preference

One of the most appealing aspects of this Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to adjust the spice level or incorporate different proteins and vegetables, this dish allows for endless variations. For those who enjoy extra heat, adding more gochujang or incorporating chili flakes and chili oil can intensify the spice level. If you prefer a milder version, reducing the amount of gochujang or adding a bit more broth can help balance the flavors. Mushrooms, bok choy, or bean sprouts can also be added for extra texture and nutritional value. These variations make this soup a versatile dish that can be adapted to different dietary preferences and available ingredients.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Days

With its quick preparation time, this noodle soup is an excellent meal option for those with busy schedules. Unlike traditional soups that require hours of simmering, this recipe delivers deep flavors in just a fraction of the time. By using gochujang and other pantry staples, you can create a complex broth in minutes without the need for extensive cooking techniques. Another reason why this dish is perfect for busy days is its minimal cleanup. Since most of the cooking happens in a single pot, there is less mess to clean up afterward. The simplicity of the ingredients also means you won’t have to spend too much time prepping everything can be put together quickly for a fuss-free meal. This soup is also ideal for meal prepping. While it is best enjoyed fresh, the broth can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the broth and add freshly cooked noodles for a quick and delicious meal.

Conclusion

Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup is a must-try dish for anyone who loves bold flavors and quick, satisfying meals. With its rich broth, chewy noodles, and customizable toppings, this soup is a fantastic way to enjoy the depth of Korean-inspired flavors in just ten minutes. The combination of gochujang, garlic, and soy-based seasonings creates an umami-packed broth that is both spicy and comforting. Whether you’re looking for a warming meal during cold weather, a quick and easy dish for busy days, or a new way to enjoy gochujang, this noodle soup is an excellent choice.