Creamy Gochujang Pasta
Creamy Gochujang Pasta with Gigli is a delectable fusion of Korean and Italian flavors, offering a unique and delightful dish. This recipe combines the bold spiciness of gochujang (Korean chili paste) with the creamy richness of a pasta sauce, all beautifully enveloping the whimsical Gigli pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture.
Table of Contents
- About Gochujang Pasta
- Why You’ll Love This Creamy Gochujang Pasta
- What Is In Our Creamy Gochujang Pasta?
- Key Ingredients
- How To Make This Recipe
- Have It Your Way!
- Nutritional Facts about Creamy Gochujang Pasta
- Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Creamy Gochujang Pasta Recipe
About Gochujang Pasta
This fusion dish brings together the culinary traditions of Korea and Italy. While pasta has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, gochujang is a traditional Korean condiment known for its deep, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor. The combination of these two elements creates a modern, innovative dish that celebrates global culinary diversity.
Gochujang has been used in Korean cuisine for over a thousand years, often as a base for sauces, soups, and marinades. In recent years, it has gained popularity worldwide for its unique flavor profile. Integrating it with creamy pasta highlights the trend of cross-cultural cuisine, where traditional ingredients are used in new and exciting ways.
The idea of pairing gochujang with a creamy pasta sauce may seem unconventional, but it results in a harmonious blend of flavors. The spiciness of gochujang is balanced by the creaminess of the sauce, while the Gigli pasta provides a perfect texture to hold the sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Gochujang Pasta
- Unique Fusion: Combines Korean and Italian culinary elements for a one-of-a-kind dish.
- Bold Flavors: The spicy gochujang pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Perfect Texture: Gigli pasta holds the sauce well and offers a delightful bite.
- Vegan-Friendly: Easily adaptable for a plant-based diet.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
What Is In Our Creamy Gochujang Pasta?
This dish includes a variety of flavorful and complementary ingredients:
- Gigli Pasta: Provides a unique texture and holds the sauce well.
- Butter: Provides a rich depth of flavor.
- Gochujang: Adds a spicy and slightly sweet kick.
- Heavy Cream: Offers a creamy base for the sauce.
- Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic depth.
- Soy Sauce: Brings umami richness to the dish.
- Chives: For garnish and added freshness.
Key Ingredients
- Gigli Pasta: The star of the dish, known for its unique shape and ability to hold sauce.
- Gochujang: The key flavor component, providing heat and depth.
- Butter: For a rich depth of flavor.
- Heavy Cream/Coconut Milk: Creates a creamy, luscious sauce.
- Garlic: Essential aromatics for the sauce.
- Soy Sauce: Adds umami richness.
- Green Onions/Chives: For garnish and an extra burst of flavor.
How To Make This Recipe
- Boil pasta in half the recommended water and cook it to al dente. Save 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a wok over low to medium heat, add 1 Tbsp butter and minced garlic. Saute the garlic until soften.
- Add the Gochujang paste to the wok, and work it into the butter. Then add 1/2 cup of water to smooth out the sauce.
- Add 1/2 tbsp. of soy sauce, along with 1 cup of Cream and stir it until completely mixed.
- Add the pasta and stir until all pasta is coated and the sauce thickens.
- Turn off the heat, and add parmesan cheese and mix it until combined.
- Garnish with chives and enjoy 🙂
Have It Your Way!
- Add Protein: Incorporate tofu, tempeh, or plant-based meat substitutes for added protein.
- Extra Vegetables: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli for more texture and nutrition.
- Adjust Spice Level: Increase or decrease the amount of gochujang to suit your heat preference.
- Cheesy Touch: Sprinkle with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese for added creaminess.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Nutritional Facts about Creamy Gochujang Pasta
- Rich in Vitamins: Spinach and other vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals.
- Balanced Meal: Provides a good mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.
- Low in Sugar: Minimal added sugars, relying on natural ingredients for flavor.
- Vegan-Friendly: Dairy-free and easily adaptable for a plant-based diet.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Vegan Dan Dan Noodles
- Vermicelli Upma
- Fettuccine Kale Alfredo
- Vegetable Yaki Udon Noodles
- Toshikoshi Soba Noodles Bowl
Creamy Gochujang Pasta Recipe
Creamy Gochujang Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 Oz Pasta Uncooked
- 1 Tbsp Butter
- 2 Tbsp Garlic minced
- 2 Tbsp Gochujang Pepper Paste
- ½ Tbsp Soy Sauce
- ½ Cup Pasta Water
- 1 Cup Heavy Cream
- ½ Cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- 2 Tbsp. Chives chopped
Equipment
Instructions
- Boil pasta in half the recommended water and cook it to al dente. Save 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a wok over low to medium heat, add 1 Tbsp. butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until soften.
- Add the Gochujang paste to the wok, and work it into the butter. Then add 1/2 cup of water to smooth out the sauce.
- Add 1/2 tbsp of soy sauce, along with 1 cup of Cream and stir it until completely mixed.
- Add the pasta and stir until all pasta is coated and the sauce thickens.
- Turn off the heat, and add parmesan cheese and mix it until combined.
- Garnish with chives and enjoy 🙂
Notes
- Pasta: Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
- Sauce Thickness: Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more coconut milk if it’s too thick.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and onions for the best flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce.
Video
Nutrition
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I had Gochujang Mac n cheese first time at the bar this weekend and now want to make it at home. This recipe looks good.
Oh yum! Gochujang Mac n Cheese sounds so delicious.