Spicy Korean Noodle Soup Recipe: A Deliciously Bold and Fiery Dish

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Introduction

If you’re craving a dish that brings together bold flavors, hearty noodles, and the perfect level of spice, then this Spicy Korean Noodle Soup is the answer. A beloved dish in Korean cuisine, this spicy noodle soup packs a punch with its fiery gochujang broth and a rich combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold winter day or just looking for something new to spice up your meal routine, this recipe will become a go-to comfort food. Ready to learn how to make this fiery bowl of deliciousness? Let’s dive into the world of Spicy Korean Noodle Soup!

What is Spicy Korean Noodle Soup?

Spicy Korean Noodle Soup is a savory, spicy, and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare but offers incredible flavor depth. It’s often served with chewy noodles submerged in a hot, spicy broth made from gochujang, a traditional Korean chili paste. The soup is packed with vegetables, protein options like tofu or beef, and sometimes a boiled egg for extra richness. It’s a dish known for its bold flavors, making it a favorite in Korean households and around the world.

This dish is commonly enjoyed as a hearty meal, perfect for cold weather or when you need something satisfying. With the right balance of heat and umami, Spicy Korean Noodle Soup has earned its place as a staple in Korean cuisine and has even made its way into international kitchens.

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Essential Ingredients

To make the perfect Spicy Korean Noodle Soup, you’ll need a few essential ingredients that bring out the authentic flavors of this Korean favorite:

• Gochujang (Korean chili paste): The star ingredient of this dish, gochujang gives the soup its signature spicy, sweet, and savory flavor.
• Soy Sauce: Used to balance the soup’s umami and saltiness.
• Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty, aromatic flavor to the broth.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic helps enhance the savory depth of the soup.
• Kimchi: A great accompaniment to the soup, kimchi adds an extra tangy, spicy bite.
• Noodles: You can use Korean noodles like soba or any kind of wheat noodles.
• Vegetables: Common choices include spinach, mushrooms, or onions.
• Protein: Tofu, chicken, beef, or even pork can be added for protein.

These ingredients come together to create a comforting, flavorful, and satisfying bowl of Spicy Korean Noodle Soup that you’ll want to make again and again.

Alternative Ingredients

If you can’t find some of the traditional Korean ingredients or want to switch it up a bit, don’t worry—there are plenty of alternatives you can use:

• Gochujang Substitute: If you don’t have gochujang, you can use a mix of chili paste and a touch of honey to mimic its sweet-spicy flavor.
• Soy Sauce Substitute: Tamari or coconut aminos work well for a gluten-free version.
• Noodles: Any long noodle will work, such as ramen noodles or even spaghetti.
• Vegetables: Feel free to use any veggies you have on hand, such as carrots, zucchini, or bok choy.

These simple swaps won’t compromise the overall flavor, but they may add a unique twist to your Spicy Korean Noodle Soup.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 4 bowls of soup

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Key Features:

• Hearty & Filling: Packed with noodles, protein, and vegetables, this soup is filling enough to be a main dish.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, protein, and vegetables based on your preference.
• Vibrant & Flavorful: The combination of gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil creates a rich, flavorful broth.
• Quick & Easy: In just under 40 minutes, you can have a bowl of spicy comfort on your table.

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Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 350-400
• Carbs: 50g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Sugar: 5g

Nutrition facts may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

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Directions: Step-by-Step Guide to Making Spicy Korean Noodle Soup

Making a delicious bowl of Spicy Korean Noodle Soup is easier than you might think. With a few simple ingredients and clear steps, you’ll have a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to making this savory and spicy soup:

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Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Start by preparing the base of the soup—the broth. This is where all the flavor comes from, so it’s crucial to get it right.

• Heat the Sesame Oil: Begin by heating 1-2 tablespoons of sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. The sesame oil will add a rich, nutty flavor to your broth, which is a hallmark of Korean cooking.
• Sauté Garlic: Once the sesame oil is hot, add minced garlic (about 2-3 cloves) to the pot. Stir it around for 1-2 minutes, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as garlic can quickly turn bitter.
• Add Gochujang: Now it’s time to add the star ingredient of this dish: gochujang, a traditional Korean chili paste. Add about 2 tablespoons of gochujang to the pot and stir it well to combine it with the garlic and sesame oil. Gochujang is what gives the soup its spicy, slightly sweet, and umami flavor. The heat level of the soup will depend on how much gochujang you add, so feel free to adjust according to your spice preference.
• Season with Soy Sauce: To deepen the savory flavor of the broth, add 2-3 tablespoons of soy sauce. Soy sauce is a key ingredient in Korean cuisine and adds saltiness and umami to the soup.
• Simmer the Broth: Pour in about 4-5 cups of water or broth (chicken or vegetable broth works best for more flavor) and bring it to a boil. After it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes. This allows the gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil to meld together, creating a rich, flavorful base for your soup.

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Step 2: Cook the Noodles

While the broth is simmering, it’s time to cook the noodles that will be the heart of the soup.

• Cook the Noodles: Use any long noodles like ramen noodles or soba noodles. Boil them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
• Tip: Make sure to cook the noodles separately to avoid them getting too soggy in the broth. Once they are cooked, they’ll be added to the soup just before serving.

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Step 3: Add Vegetables and Protein

Next, it’s time to add the vegetables and protein to your Spicy Korean Noodle Soup. This will give the dish more substance and texture, making it a complete meal.

• Add the Vegetables: Common vegetables used in this soup are spinach, shiitake mushrooms, or green onions. You can also use bok choy, cabbage, or zucchini based on what you have available. Add the vegetables directly to the simmering broth and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes. You want them to soften but still maintain some texture.
• Protein Options: Add your choice of protein—tofu, chicken, or beef work great. If using tofu, cut it into cubes and add it to the pot. If using chicken, you can add cooked, shredded chicken or thinly sliced chicken breast that will cook quickly. For beef, add thinly sliced beef and cook until it’s no longer pink, usually about 3-4 minutes.

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Step 4: Combine the Noodles with the Broth

Once your broth has developed a rich flavor and your vegetables and protein are tender, it’s time to add the noodles to the pot.

• Add the Noodles: Place the cooked noodles directly into the simmering broth. Stir gently to combine the noodles with the broth, making sure they’re evenly coated with the spicy, flavorful liquid. Let them heat through for 1-2 minutes.
• Taste and Adjust: This is the time to taste your soup. If you feel it needs more spice, add an extra spoonful of gochujang. If it’s too salty, add a little more water or broth. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Your Spicy Korean Noodle Soup is almost ready to be served! Garnishing is key to adding extra flavor and texture.

• Serve in Bowls: Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure each bowl gets an equal amount of noodles, vegetables, and protein.
• Garnish: Top your soup with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and a soft-boiled egg if you like. The egg adds richness and creaminess to the soup, complementing the heat of the broth. You can also garnish with a few chili flakes for an extra kick if you’re craving more spice.
• Optional Add-ins: For an added burst of flavor, you can add kimchi on the side. The tangy, fermented flavor of kimchi pairs wonderfully with the spicy soup.

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Pro Tip for Extra Flavor:

If you want to enhance the flavor even more, consider letting the soup sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows all the flavors to fully develop and meld together, making every bite even more delicious.

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Pro Tips for a Perfect Spicy Korean Noodle Soup

• Adjust the spice level: You can control the heat by adding more or less gochujang. If you prefer a milder soup, use half the amount.
• Choose your protein wisely: Tofu, beef, or chicken all work well, but make sure to season the protein well for the best flavor.
• Add a soft-boiled egg: For added richness, top your soup with a soft-boiled egg, which adds creaminess to the spicy broth.
• Use homemade stock: If possible, use homemade chicken or vegetable stock for a richer broth flavor.

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Why You’ll Love this Recipe?

This Spicy Korean Noodle Soup is a delicious fusion of spicy, savory, and umami flavors that you’ll crave on cold days or anytime you need a satisfying meal. The broth, with its gochujang base, delivers the perfect balance of heat, while the noodles, vegetables, and protein make it a filling dish. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and can be customized based on your tastes, making it a go-to comfort food.

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What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets this Spicy Korean Noodle Soup apart is the depth of flavor achieved through the use of gochujang, a staple in Korean cuisine. The addition of kimchi, sesame oil, and garlic further elevates the taste, giving the soup a well-rounded and satisfying complexity. It’s the perfect balance of heat and richness in every bite.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this soup less spicy?
Yes! If you want to reduce the heat, simply add less gochujang to the broth. You can always add more later if you want extra spice.

2. What other proteins can I use?
Feel free to substitute tofu with chicken, beef, or pork, depending on your preference. Tofu is a great vegetarian option, while meat adds more heartiness to the soup.

3. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth and tofu as the protein. You can also add additional vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms.

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You’ll Also Love:

• Korean Kimchi Stew – A spicy, savory stew made with kimchi, tofu, and pork belly.
• Korean Beef Bulgogi – A delicious, marinated beef dish grilled to perfection.
• Kimchi Fried Rice – A quick and flavorful rice dish made with leftover kimchi.

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Conclusion

Now that you have the recipe for this Spicy Korean Noodle Soup, it’s time to grab your ingredients and create a delicious, hearty bowl of comfort. With its bold flavors, spicy broth, and customizable options, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re a fan of spicy foods or just looking to try something new, this Spicy Korean Noodle Soup is the perfect recipe for any occasion.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations on Instagram with the hashtag #BeesRecipes. We can’t wait to see how you put your spin on this spicy Korean classic!