Description
This Gochujang Pasta is a Korean-Italian fusion dish that combines the bold, spicy-sweet flavor of gochujang (Korean chili paste) with creamy pasta for a quick, satisfying meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1/2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk (or heavy cream)
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved from boiling)
- 1/2 tbsp maple syrup (optional, for balance)
- Fresh basil or scallion for garnish
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- Grated parmesan or vegan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté garlic and onion with a pinch of salt until fragrant and soft, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add gochujang and tomato paste. Stir and sauté for 1 minute.
- Stir in coconut milk, pasta water, and maple syrup. Mix until smooth and let simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss until the noodles are evenly coated and the sauce clings well.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve with fresh basil or scallions, sesame seeds, and optional cheese on top.
Notes
- You can substitute coconut milk with heavy cream if preferred.
- Adjust the amount of gochujang based on your spice tolerance.
- Add vegetables or protein like tofu, shrimp, or chicken for a heartier meal.
- Maple syrup helps balance the heat and acidity—omit if not needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 75g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
