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Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of gochujang?

Sambal oelek + honey, Harissa and Tomato paste + chili flakes + honey are the easiest swaps. Below: 4 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

Sambal oelek + honey. Use the same amount. Fresh-chili heat; add 1/2 tsp honey per tbsp for gochujang's sweetness.

Adjust: Add a splash of soy for depth.

  1. Sambal oelek + honey

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Fresh-chili heat; add 1/2 tsp honey per tbsp for gochujang's sweetness.

    Flavor
    Brighter chili, less fermented.
    Texture
    Looser, chunkier.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Add a splash of soy for depth.
    Best for
    Sauces, Marinades, Dips

    gluten free

  2. Harissa

    Changes flavor or texture

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Same fermented-chili idea; more floral/spiced, less sweet.

    Flavor
    Earthy, cumin-caraway; not sweet.
    Texture
    Same paste consistency.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Add a pinch of sugar if the dish leans sweet.
    Best for
    Marinades, Roasted vegetables, Stews

  3. Tomato paste + chili flakes + honey

    Changes flavor or texture

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Pantry route: 1 tbsp tomato paste + 1/2 tsp chili flakes + 1/2 tsp honey per tbsp.

    Flavor
    Sweet-savory heat; less fermented depth.
    Texture
    Thick paste like the original.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Simmer 2-3 min to mellow the tomato.
    Best for
    Stews, Braises, Sauces

  4. Sriracha + white miso

    Changes flavor or texture

    Use 2× the amount (ratio 2:1)

    Mimics gochujang's fermented depth: mix 2 parts sriracha with 1 part white miso and a pinch of sugar.

    Flavor
    Hot, salty-fermented; less grainy-sweet.
    Texture
    Thinner — simmer briefly to thicken.
    Moisture
    Reduce other liquid slightly.
    Adjust
    Start with less; sriracha heats faster than gochujang.
    Best for
    Marinades, Sauces, Stir-fries

Common questions

What is the best substitute for gochujang?

Sambal oelek + honey is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Fresh-chili heat; add 1/2 tsp honey per tbsp for gochujang's sweetness.

What is a gluten-free substitute for gochujang?

Good gluten-free options are Sambal oelek + honey.

How much should I use instead of gochujang?

It depends on the swap. Sambal oelek + honey: Use the same amount. Harissa: Use the same amount. Tomato paste + chili flakes + honey: Use the same amount.

Recipes that use gochujang

Scale it to your recipe

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