Name: Vegan Creamy Korean Gochujang Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 200g prawns, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp Gochujang; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 spring onions, thinly sliced; 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

This vegan creamy gochujang pasta blends Korean and Italian flavors, creating a spicy, savory, and sweet dish that's perfect for any pasta lover.

What is Gochujang?

Gochujang is a savory, spicy, and slightly sweet fermented chili paste that is a staple in Korean cuisine.

It is made from red chili peppers, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt.

Gochujang has been a part of Korean cuisine for over 1,000 years and is a beloved ingredient in many traditional Korean dishes.

The Health Benefits of Gochujang

Not only is gochujang delicious, but it also has numerous health benefits. Gochujang is high in capsaicin, a compound that is known to boost metabolism and aid in weight loss. It also contains antioxidants, which can help protect the body against free radicals and reduce inflammation.

Incorporating Gochujang into Your Diet

Gochujang can be used in a variety of ways to add flavor and spice to your meals. It can be used as a marinade for meats, a dipping sauce for vegetables, or even mixed into your morning eggs. One of the most popular ways to use gochujang is in Korean dishes like bibimbap, tteokbokki, and bulgogi.

Creamy Gochujang Pasta without Cream

As a substitute for cream, we are using the pasta water to make the pasta creamy. The starch in the pasta water will naturally make the sauce creamy without the use of cream. Sometimes we just prefer dishes without cream.

Ingredients

250g pasta
1 tbsp cooking oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
60g onions, chopped
2 tbsp gochujang paste
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp olive oil
salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
green onions, optional garnish
sesame seeds, optional garnish

Let's Get Cooking!

Time to get the ball rolling! Follow these simple steps:

Cook the pasta Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions. Keep an eye on the clock to ensure perfect al dente noodles.
Sauté the veggies While the pasta is bubbling away, heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and onions until they release their mouthwatering aroma.
Add the magic Now it's time for the star ingredient: gochujang paste! Stir in the gochujang paste, soy sauce, and honey (or agave syrup). Mix well until everything is combined.
Bring it together Once your pasta is cooked, drain it, and add it to the pan with your sauce. Toss everything together to ensure each noodle is coated in that creamy, spicy goodness.
Make it creamy Add a touch of pasta water (about 4 tablespoons) to achieve the desired level of creaminess. The starchy water will help bind the sauce to the pasta.
Season and garnish Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as needed. For an extra pop of flavor, garnish your masterpiece with green onions and sesame seeds.

Tips and Tricks

To elevate your Vegan Creamy Korean Gochujang Pasta even further, consider these suggestions:

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative.
Add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for an extra nutrient boost.
Top the dish with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy touch.

Nutrition Information

This recipe serves 4 people, with approximately 200g per serving. Nutrition information will vary depending on the specific ingredients and pasta type used.

Calories: 350 kcal
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 400mg
Total Carbohydrate: 58g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 7g
Protein: 10g

Please note that these values are approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients and pasta type used. To get the most accurate nutrition information, you can use an online nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients.

FAQs

What is gochujang paste?

Gochujang paste is a Korean fermented chili paste made from red chili, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. It adds a spicy and umami flavor to dishes.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, such as tamari.

Is this recipe vegan?

By substituting honey with agave syrup, this recipe becomes entirely vegan.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent the sauce from drying out.