Name: Homemade Gochugaru Chilli Seasoning
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 24 servings
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 0.5 cup Gochugaru (Korean Red Pepper Flakes); 2 tbsp Toasted Sesame Seeds; 1 tbsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Fine Sea Salt; 1 tsp Mushroom Powder (optional for umami); 1 tsp Coconut Sugar or Brown Sugar; 0.5 tsp Ginger Powder

"This vibrant, multi-layered seasoning blend captures the iconic smoky heat of Korean red pepper flakes balanced with savory garlic and toasted sesame. It is the ultimate pantry staple for elevating everything from simple rice bowls to complex marinades with a punch of umami."

1 Ingredients

Qty	Item
0.5 cup 50 g	Gochugaru (Korean Red Pepper Flakes)
2 tbsp 18 g	Toasted Sesame Seeds
1 tbsp 9 g	Garlic Powder
1 tsp 6 g	Fine Sea Salt
1 tsp 2 g	Mushroom Powder (optional for umami)
1 tsp 4 g	Coconut Sugar or Brown Sugar
0.5 tsp 1 g	Ginger Powder

2 Instructions

Place a small skillet over medium heat and add the sesame seeds. Toast them for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

In a medium glass mixing bowl, combine the Gochugaru, garlic powder, ginger powder, sea salt, sugar, and mushroom powder.

Add the cooled toasted sesame seeds to the spice mixture. Use a whisk or fork to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed and there are no clumps of sugar or garlic powder.

If you prefer a finer texture, pulse the mixture 2-3 times in a spice grinder, being careful not to turn it into a paste.

Transfer the seasoning to an airtight glass jar and store in a cool, dark place.

·
Use sun-dried (Taekyung) Gochugaru for a deeper red color and superior smoky flavor.
·
Store the blend in the freezer if you don't plan on using it within a month; this preserves the natural oils in the chilli and sesame.
·
For an extra kick, add a half teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mix.
·
Shake the jar before every use as the heavier salt and seeds tend to settle at the bottom.

? Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gochugaru the same as standard red pepper flakes?

No, Gochugaru is typically seedless and has a fruitier, smokier flavor with a more moderate heat level compared to the sharp spiciness of Italian-style crushed red pepper.

How long will this seasoning stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark pantry, it will maintain peak flavor for up to 6 months.

Can I use this blend for making Kimchi?

While this is a seasoned blend meant for topping dishes or dry rubs, you can use it for 'quick' kimchi (Geotjeori), though traditional kimchi usually uses plain Gochugaru.

What dishes pair best with this seasoning?

It is excellent on fried eggs, avocado toast, grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, and even sprinkled over popcorn.

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