Out of Gochugaru, one case
Can I substitute red pepper flakes for gochugaru?
4 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Red pepper flakes
Half the amount of gochugaru
Yes, you can substitute red pepper flakes for gochugaru flakes, but there are important differences to consider. While both are red pepper flakes, gochugaru has a unique Korean flavor profile that's hard to replicate.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- The tweak —
- Start with half the amount, taste, then add more
- Best for —
- kimchi
One casethe full gochugaru flakes card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of gochugaru |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Red pepper flakeskimchi | ½ × the amountTweak it |
| 2 | Red pepper flakes + paprikakimchi | 3 parts red pepper flakes to 1 part paprika |
| 3 | Red pepper flakes + sugarkimchi | 1 ½ tsp flakes + ¼ tsp sugar per tbsp |
| 4 | Red pepper flakes + smoked paprikakimchi | 2 parts red pepper flakes to 1 part smoked paprika |
Red pepper flakes
different taste, similar texture
Most common substitute: hotter than gochugaru, with a sharper flavor and none of its sweetness
- Best for
- kimchi, gochujang, Korean stews, marinades, spice blends
- Prep
- Start with half the amount, taste, then add more
Heat varies by brand. For kimchi or any recipe that uses gochugaru by the quarter cup, start with a third of the amount.
Red pepper flakes + paprika
closer to gochugaru · similar texture
Combination that mimics gochugaru's mild sweetness
- Best for
- kimchi, Korean stews, marinades, spice blends
- Prep
- Mix together before using
Paprika adds sweetness and color, red pepper flakes add heat.
Red pepper flakes + sugar
closer to gochugaru · similar texture
Adds sweetness to mimic gochugaru's flavor
- Best for
- kimchi, Korean stews, marinades
- Prep
- Mix sugar with red pepper flakes before using
Sugar helps replicate gochugaru's natural sweetness. The flakes go in at half the amount of gochugaru because they are hotter.
Red pepper flakes + smoked paprika
closer to gochugaru · similar texture
Adds smoky flavor similar to gochugaru
- Best for
- kimchi, Korean stews, marinades, spice blends
- Prep
- Mix together before using
Smoked paprika adds the smoky depth of gochugaru.
Tips for substituting gochugaru
8 tips- Red pepper flakes are generally hotter than gochugaru, so start with less
- Gochugaru has a unique sweet, smoky flavor that's hard to replicate
- For kimchi, red pepper flakes work well but may need adjustment for heat
- In Korean stews, red pepper flakes provide good heat but lack gochugaru's depth
- For gochujang, red pepper flakes can work but the flavor will be different
- Test your substitution in small batches before making large quantities
- Consider adding a pinch of sugar to mimic gochugaru's natural sweetness
- Smoked paprika can help replicate gochugaru's smoky undertones
Notes on gochugaru
| Property | Gochugaru | Red pepper flakes |
|---|---|---|
| Heat | Mild to medium | Medium to hot |
| Flavor | Sweet, smoky, slightly fruity | Sharp, sometimes bitter |
| Color | Bright red | Dark red |
| Texture | Flaky, not powdery | Flaky, similar to gochugaru |
Questions
5 questionsCan I substitute red pepper flakes for gochugaru in kimchi?
Yes, you can use red pepper flakes in kimchi, but start with less than the recipe calls for since red pepper flakes are often hotter than gochugaru. You may also want to add a pinch of sugar to mimic gochugaru's natural sweetness.
What's the main difference between red pepper flakes and gochugaru?
The main differences are flavor and heat level. Gochugaru has a sweet, smoky flavor with mild to medium heat, while red pepper flakes are generally hotter and have a sharper, more generic pepper flavor. Gochugaru also has a unique Korean terroir that's hard to replicate.
Will my Korean dish taste different with red pepper flakes?
Yes, your dish will taste different with red pepper flakes. Gochugaru has a unique sweet, smoky flavor that's characteristic of Korean cuisine. Red pepper flakes will provide heat but lack the depth and sweetness of gochugaru.
How can I make red pepper flakes taste more like gochugaru?
You can mix red pepper flakes with paprika (3:1 ratio) to add sweetness, or add a pinch of sugar. Smoked paprika can also help replicate gochugaru's smoky undertones. However, gochugaru's unique flavor is hard to fully replicate.
Are red pepper flakes hotter than gochugaru?
Generally yes, red pepper flakes are hotter than gochugaru. Gochugaru is known for its mild to medium heat, while red pepper flakes can vary from medium to quite hot depending on the brand and type of peppers used.