Imagine transforming ordinary dried chili peppers into a vibrant, flavor-packed spice that can elevate any dish from bland to grand! Gochugaru, the legendary Korean chili flakes, is not just a seasoning—it's a culinary passport to the bold and exciting world of Korean cooking. Whether you're a spice enthusiast or a curious home chef, making your own gochugaru is easier than you think and will revolutionize your kitchen game forever.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: Korean
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried Korean red chili peppers
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 cup of dried Korean red chili peppers, 1 tablespoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds (if using).
- Rinse the dried Korean red chili peppers under cold water to remove any dust or impurities. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Remove the stems from the chili peppers. If you prefer a milder chili flake, you can also remove some or all of the seeds.
- Place the dried chili peppers in a spice grinder or a food processor. If you are using sesame seeds, add them to the grinder as well.
- Grind the chili peppers to your desired consistency. For a coarse flake, pulse the grinder a few times until the peppers are broken down but not completely powdered.
- Once you have achieved the desired texture, transfer the ground chili flakes to a mixing bowl.
- Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the bowl and mix well to combine. This will enhance the flavor of the chili flakes and help preserve them.
- If you used sesame seeds, ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Store the gochugaru in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It can be used immediately or stored for up to a year.
Tips
- Choose high-quality, bright red Korean chili peppers for the most authentic flavor and color.
- For heat control, adjust the number of seeds you remove—more seeds mean more spiciness!
- Use a spice grinder or food processor with sharp blades to ensure consistent flake size.
- Store your homemade gochugaru in a cool, dark place to preserve its vibrant color and intense flavor.
- Experiment with toasting sesame seeds before grinding for an extra layer of nutty complexity.
- Wear gloves when handling dried chili peppers to protect your skin from potential irritation.
- Consider making small batches to ensure maximum freshness and potency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 30kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
