Gochugaru | Chili Pepper Powder

Gochugaru (고추가루) - Chili Pepper Powder

Definition: Gochugaru is a vibrant red chili pepper powder or flakes, made from sun-dried red chili peppers, and is a fundamental spice in Korean cuisine.

Description: Gochugaru is traditionally made by drying red chili peppers in the sun and then grinding them into coarse, medium, or fine powder. The resulting product can range from mild to very spicy, depending on the type of chili peppers used. It has a unique flavor profile that combines heat with a slight sweetness and smokiness.

Gochugaru Flavor Profile:

• Spicy: Varies from mild to very spicy.
• Sweet: A subtle sweetness from the dried peppers.
• Smoky: A hint of smokiness from the sun-drying process.

Uses:

Gochugaru is incredibly versatile and is used in a wide range of Korean dishes:

• Marinades: Adds depth and heat to meat and vegetable marinades.
• Soups and Stews: Enhances the flavor and color of broths.
• Kimchi: Essential for the spicy kick and red color of kimchi.
• Seasoning Pastes: Combined with other ingredients to create flavorful pastes.
• Seasoning Rubs: Used as a dry rub for meats and seafood.

Storage:

To maintain its flavor and color, gochugaru should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Refrigeration is recommended for long-term storage.

Health Benefits:

Rich in vitamins A and C, gochugaru also contains capsaicin, which has anti-inflammatory and metabolism-boosting properties.

Popular Dishes:

• Kimchi: Fermented vegetables with a spicy kick.
• Tteokbokki: Spicy rice cakes.
• Jjigae: Various Korean stews.

Variations:

Coarse Gochugaru: Often used for kimchi and seasoning pastes.
Fine Gochugaru: Typically used in soups, stews, and marinades