Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup is a quick and flavorful dish that packs a punch with its spicy, savory broth and comforting noodles. The rich gochujang (Korean chili paste) provides deep heat, while the broth is infused with a savory umami flavor. With just a few ingredients, this dish comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a satisfying lunch.
I first made this soup when I was in the mood for something spicy and comforting but didn’t have much time to cook. The gochujang melted into the broth, creating a deep, flavorful base that perfectly coated the noodles. The result was a simple yet bold soup that instantly satisfied my craving for something spicy and hearty.
What’s great about this Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup is how customizable it is. You can add vegetables, tofu, or even a soft-boiled egg for extra richness. It’s a dish that’s easy to throw together when you’re short on time but still want something full of flavor. Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking for a comforting noodle soup, this recipe will definitely hit the spot!
Perfect for:
- Weeknight dinners
- Comfort food cravings
- Spicy food lovers
- Quick meals
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup will become your go-to comfort dish:
- Bold and Spicy Flavor: The gochujang paste provides a deep, spicy kick that elevates the broth.
- Hearty Noodles: The noodles soak up the flavorful broth, making every bite a satisfying experience.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the level of spiciness based on your preference by adding more or less gochujang.
- Packed with Vegetables: Includes a variety of vegetables for added nutrition and texture.
- Rich, Umami Broth: The combination of gochujang and soy sauce creates a savory, umami-packed base.
- One-Pot Wonder: Easy to clean up with only one pot required for cooking.
- Healthy and Nourishing: A wholesome meal that fills you up without feeling heavy.
- Perfect for Any Season: Whether it’s a cold winter night or a warm summer evening, this soup is comforting year-round.
- Vegan-Friendly: Can easily be made vegan by using plant-based noodles and broth.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 2 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 12g, Carbs: 60g, Fat: 12g
Ingredients
For the Broth:
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
For the Noodles and Vegetables:
- 2 servings of ramen or soba noodles
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms (shiitake or button)
- ½ cup spinach or bok choy
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 boiled egg (optional)
Optional Garnishes:
- Sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro
- Chili flakes
- Lime wedges
Ingredient Highlights
- Gochujang: The key ingredient for spiciness and umami depth in the broth.
- Sesame Oil: Adds a subtle, nutty flavor that complements the spice.
- Vegetable Broth: Provides a light, savory base for the soup.
- Noodles: Choose your favorite noodles to make this dish your own, whether ramen, soba, or udon.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Broth:
- Heat the Broth Base: In a medium pot, combine vegetable broth (or water), gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir well.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust the Flavor: Taste the broth and add rice vinegar for tanginess or sugar for a touch of sweetness.
Prepare the Noodles and Vegetables:
- Cook the Noodles: In a separate pot, cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Add the Vegetables: Add the sliced mushrooms, spinach (or bok choy), and carrot to the broth. Let them cook for 1-2 minutes until softened.
- Combine Noodles and Broth: Add the cooked noodles to the broth and stir gently to combine.
Assemble the Soup:
- Serve: Divide the noodle soup between two bowls.
- Garnish: Top with chopped green onions, a boiled egg (if using), sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, and chili flakes for extra heat.
- Serve with Lime: Add a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty finish.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup:
- With Extra Heat: Add more gochujang or chili flakes for those who love a fiery kick.
- With Pickled Vegetables: Serve with a side of kimchi or pickled radishes for added tang.
- With Steamed Dumplings: Pair with steamed dumplings or spring rolls for a complete meal.
- For a Light Meal: Serve with a side of crispy tempura vegetables.
- For Lunch: This soup is perfect for a hearty lunch, packing plenty of flavor and satisfaction.
- As a Comfort Food: Enjoy it on a rainy day or when you’re in need of something warm and soothing.
- With Tofu: Add fried tofu for a protein boost and extra texture.
- For a Vegan Meal: Skip the egg and use vegetable broth for a fully plant-based dish.
- With Rice Cakes: For a heartier meal, add some chewy Korean rice cakes (tteok) to the soup.
- As a Starter: Serve as a spicy appetizer before your main course at dinner parties.
Additional Tips
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder soup, start with half the gochujang and taste as you go.
- Use Fresh Broth: For the best flavor, use homemade vegetable broth, or opt for a high-quality store-bought option.
- Noodle Variations: If you don’t have ramen, use other noodles like udon or even rice noodles for a gluten-free option.
- Add Protein: For extra protein, add shredded chicken or beef.
- Add Crunch: Top with crispy fried onions or toasted seaweed for added texture.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Seafood Noodle Soup: Add shrimp or squid for a seafood version.
- Miso Gochujang Soup: Add a spoonful of miso paste to the broth for a richer, fermented flavor.
- Vegetable-Only Soup: Skip the meat options for a fully vegetarian version with tofu or more vegetables.
- Spicy Kimchi Soup: Add kimchi to the soup for a tangy, fermented twist.
- Coconut Gochujang Soup: For a creamy version, add a can of coconut milk to the broth.
- Sweet Potato Noodles: Replace ramen with sweet potato noodles for a gluten-free and healthier alternative.
Special Equipment
- Medium Pot: For making the broth and cooking the vegetables.
- Strainer or Sieve: To rinse the noodles.
- Sharp Knife: For slicing the vegetables thinly.
- Soup Ladle: To serve the soup easily into bowls.
- Boiling Pot for Noodles: To cook the noodles separately.
FAQ Section
- Can I use other chili pastes instead of gochujang?
Yes, you can use sambal oelek or sriracha for a similar spicy kick. - How long does this soup last in the fridge?
It can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. - Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the broth and vegetables ahead of time. Add noodles and garnishes when ready to serve. - Can I freeze the soup?
It’s best not to freeze the noodles, but you can freeze the broth and vegetables separately for up to 1 month. - Can I add meat to the soup?
Yes, you can add chicken, beef, or turkey for extra protein. - Can I make this soup spicier?
Yes, you can increase the amount of gochujang or add chili flakes for extra heat. - Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free noodles and vegetable broth. - What can I substitute for the boiled egg?
You can use tofu, or skip it for a vegan version. - Can I use instant noodles for this recipe?
Yes, instant noodles work perfectly, but be sure to discard the seasoning packet and use your own broth instead. - How do I store leftover soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove.
Conclusion
Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup is a quick, fiery, and flavorful dish that combines the umami depth of gochujang (Korean chili paste) with the comforting warmth of a noodle soup. In just 10 minutes, you can enjoy a spicy, savory broth filled with tender noodles and a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and green onions. The gochujang adds a kick of heat, while the savory base balances it with rich, hearty flavor. Perfect for when you’re craving something spicy, comforting, and ready in no time!
What makes this soup so special is its simplicity and speed—everything comes together in a flash, and you can adjust the heat level by adding more or less gochujang. Top it off with a soft-boiled egg or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. Whether you’re in a rush or just craving something spicy and satisfying, this noodle soup is a deliciously quick solution.
I can’t wait to see how your Spicy Gochujang Noodle Soup turns out! Snap a photo and share it on Instagram, tagging me so I can admire your spicy creation. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you personalized this soup—I’d love to hear all about your take on it!