Finding Flavor: What is a gluten-free alternative to gochujang?

Did you know that most commercially produced gochujang is not gluten-free due to its use of barley malt? For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, enjoying Korean cuisine can be a challenge, but you don't have to miss out on the complex, spicy, and savory flavors of this key ingredient. This guide explores what is a gluten-free alternative to gochujang, offering solutions for every need, from quick fixes to authentic-tasting homemade versions.

Quick Summary

This article explores several options for replacing gochujang on a gluten-free diet, including simple DIY recipes using miso paste and gochugaru, identifying suitable commercial brands, and highlighting various quick-fix pantry substitutes like sriracha or chili bean paste.

Key Points

• Check Labels: Most traditional gochujang contains gluten from barley malt, so always verify labels on commercial brands.

• Homemade with Miso: An excellent DIY gluten-free alternative can be made by combining gluten-free miso paste, gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), and a sweetener like maple syrup.

• Commercial Brands are Available: Look for specific gluten-free versions from brands like Sempio, O'Food, and Koko, which clearly state 'gluten-free' on the packaging.

• Sriracha is a Quick Fix: For a convenient and widely available substitute, sriracha can provide a similar sweet and spicy kick, though it lacks the fermented umami depth.

• Consider Chili Bean Paste: For a substitute with a fermented flavor, Chinese chili bean paste is an option but is typically saltier and has a different flavor profile.

• Paleo/Date Paste Option: A homemade version using dates, gochugaru, and coconut aminos can serve as a Paleo-friendly gluten-free alternative.

• Mix and Match for Flavor: For the most authentic flavor, combining a fermented base (like miso) with other elements (gochugaru, sweetener) is often more effective than a single-ingredient swap.

Why Traditional Gochujang Contains Gluten

Gochujang is a staple Korean chili paste known for its spicy, sweet, and savory flavor. Traditional gochujang typically contains gluten because barley malt powder, or yeotgireum, is used in the fermentation process. Some brands may also use wheat-based ingredients, making it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Homemade Gluten-Free Gochujang

Making your own gluten-free gochujang allows control over ingredients and helps replicate the unique flavor profile. The key is to use a gluten-free fermented base combined with gochugaru (Korean chili flakes).

Miso-Based Shortcut Recipe

A simple and popular homemade option utilizes readily available ingredients.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup gluten-free white or chickpea miso paste
• 3 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
• 3 Tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 Tbsp rice wine vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, finely grated
• ¼ cup water
• 1 Tbsp gluten-free soy sauce or tamari (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mix gluten-free miso paste and gochugaru.
2. Add honey, rice wine vinegar, and garlic, mixing thoroughly.
3. Gradually add water to achieve desired consistency.
4. Optionally add gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
5. Let flavors meld for at least 30 minutes.
6. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Commercial Gluten-Free Gochujang Brands

With increased awareness, several brands now offer gluten-free gochujang, often using alternative fermentation methods. Always check labels to confirm a product is certified gluten-free.

Brands that may offer gluten-free varieties include:

• Sempio
• O'Food
• Koko Gochujang
• Wegmans (Store Brand)
• Q-Rapha
• Jinmi

Quick and Convenient Pantry Substitutes

For a quick fix, several pantry items can substitute gochujang, though they may not fully capture its complex flavor. These work well when the specific gochujang taste is not the primary requirement.

Comparison of Quick Gochujang Alternatives

Substitute	Pros	Cons	Best for...
Sriracha	Readily available, similar spicy/sweet kick	Lacks fermented depth, thinner consistency	Quick sauces and marinades
Chili Bean Paste (Toban Djan)	Fermented flavor, thick texture	Often saltier, different flavor profile	Stews and stir-fries
Miso + Gochugaru	Replicates fermented umami and spice	Requires two ingredients	Marinades, sauces, and dips
Sambal Oelek	Thick texture, raw chili flavor	Lacks sweetness and fermented notes	Adding pure heat to dishes
Tomato Paste + Chili Powder	Adds thickness and sweet acidity	Significantly different flavor profile	Emergency substitute for texture
Harissa	Spicy, complex flavor	Uses different spices, often smoky	Flavoring stews and dips

Using Alternative Sauces and Pastes

Combining ingredients can help mimic gochujang's characteristics. For instance, blending a gluten-free miso paste with gochugaru and a sweetener creates a paste with fermented umami and heat. Chinese chili bean paste (toban djan) offers fermentation but is typically saltier. A Paleo option uses dates, coconut aminos, gochugaru, and tomato paste.

Conclusion

Following a gluten-free diet doesn't mean missing out on Korean cuisine. You can find a gluten-free alternative to gochujang through commercial brands, homemade recipes, or quick pantry substitutes. The best choice depends on your needs and how closely you want to replicate the traditional flavor. With these options, you can confidently enjoy a variety of Korean-inspired dishes. Find gluten-free recipes and substitutes for gochujang online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is gochujang inherently gluten-free?

No, traditional gochujang is not inherently gluten-free. Many mass-produced versions contain barley malt powder, a gluten-containing ingredient used in the fermentation process.

What is the best quick and easy substitute for gochujang?

Sriracha is considered one of the best quick substitutes because it offers a similar balance of sweetness and heat. However, it lacks the fermented funk and thick texture of gochujang.

Can I use chili bean paste instead of gochujang?

Yes, Chinese chili bean paste (toban djan) can be used as a substitute, especially for its fermented qualities. Be aware that it is often saltier and has a different flavor, so you may need to adjust your recipe.

How do I make a homemade gluten-free gochujang from scratch?

A popular shortcut recipe involves mixing gluten-free miso paste (like chickpea or brown rice), gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), a sweetener (maple syrup or honey), rice wine vinegar, and garlic. This combination mimics the fermented, spicy, and sweet flavor profile.

Are there any brands of gochujang that are gluten-free?

Yes, several brands now offer gluten-free gochujang, including Sempio, O'Food, Koko Gochujang, and Wegmans. Always check the label to ensure it is explicitly marked gluten-free.

Does glutinous rice contain gluten?

No, despite its name, glutinous rice does not contain gluten. It is safe for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

What is a good Paleo or Whole30 substitute for gochujang?

For Paleo or Whole30 diets, a substitute can be made by blending pitted Medjool dates, gochugaru, coconut aminos, apple cider vinegar, and tomato paste to create a thick, flavorful paste.