Gochujang Noodles

Spice and Zest Unleashed: Gochujang Noodles Delight

Embark on a journey of bold flavors and enticing aromas with Gochujang Noodles, a dish that effortlessly marries the complexity of Korean cuisine with the comforting simplicity of noodles. Gochujang, a fermented red chili paste, takes center stage, infusing these noodles with its rich umami, spice, and depth of flavor. This recipe transforms a humble bowl of noodles into a culinary adventure that will awaken your taste buds. Join us as we explore the art of Gochujang Noodles, unlocking the secrets to creating a dish that tantalizes the senses.

Ingredients:

To embark on this flavor-packed adventure, gather the following ingredients:

Produce:

  • 1 tbsp Garlic
  • 1/2 Lime, small
  • 1/2 cup Matchstick-cut cucumber
  • 1/2 cup Scallions

Condiments:

  • 1 tbsp Lime juice, fresh
  • 1 tbsp Maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp Soy sauce

Pasta & Grains:

  • 1 (8-oz.) package Udon noodles

Baking & Spices:

  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper, ground
  • 1/4 cup Gochujang
  • 1 tsp Kosher salt
  • Sesame seeds, toasted

Oils & Vinegars:

  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • Sesame oil, toasted

Liquids:

  • 1/2 cup Water

Other:

  • 1 (10-oz.) bunch Dinosaur (lacinato) kale, ribs removed and roughly chopped

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Udon Noodles: Start by cooking the Udon noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Add Kale to the Mix: Incorporate the chopped kale into the skillet, tossing it with the garlic-infused oil. Allow the kale to wilt and become tender.
  4. Whisk the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, maple syrup, soy sauce, Gochujang, black pepper, and kosher salt. This dynamic combination will serve as the sauce that brings the dish to life.
  5. Infuse with Gochujang: Pour the Gochujang-based sauce over the sautéed kale and garlic. Stir well, ensuring the kale is evenly coated in the flavorful sauce.
  6. Introduce Udon Noodles: Add the cooked Udon noodles to the skillet, tossing them with the kale and Gochujang sauce. The noodles will absorb the bold flavors and become a canvas for the dish.
  7. Incorporate Vegetables: Toss in matchstick-cut cucumber and scallions, adding a refreshing crunch to the dish. The vegetables contribute to the vibrant medley of textures.
  8. Splash of Sesame Oil: Drizzle toasted sesame oil over the noodles, infusing them with a nutty aroma that complements the spice of Gochujang.
  9. Splash of Lime Zest: Grate the zest of half a small lime over the noodles, enhancing the freshness and citrus notes in the dish.
  10. Garnish with Toasted Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds generously over the Gochujang Noodles. This final touch adds visual appeal and a delightful crunch.
  11. Adjust and Serve: Taste the noodles and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the Gochujang Noodles hot, garnished with extra scallions and sesame seeds if desired.

Cook Notes:

  • For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or extra Gochujang to suit your spice preference.
  • Experiment with different types of noodles for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Variations:

  1. Protein Power-Up: Elevate the dish by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein-packed version.
  2. Vegetarian Delight: Skip the meat and make it a vegetarian delight by adding more veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas.

Keto Versions:

For those following a keto lifestyle, Gochujang Noodles can be adapted to suit your low-carb preferences. Substitute the Udon noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles for a keto-friendly option. The rest of the ingredients, including the vibrant vegetables and Gochujang sauce, remain keto-approved, offering a satisfying meal without the carbs.

Low Carb Versions:

Watching your carb intake? Opt for low-carb noodles or vegetable-based noodles to keep the carb count in check. The essence of the dish, dominated by Gochujang and vibrant vegetables, ensures a flavorful experience without compromising on your low-carb goals.

As you twirl each forkful of Gochujang Noodles, relish in the layers of flavors that unfold—spicy, savory, and subtly sweet. This dish is more than a recipe; it’s a celebration of bold tastes and harmonious textures. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal or showcased at a dinner party, Gochujang Noodles promise to leave a lasting impression. So, embrace the boldness of Gochujang, and let the culinary adventure begin.