The Korean Seasoning That Makes Your Fries A Spicy Delight

Gochugaru adds the perfect amount of spice to fries

Gochugaru is often enjoyed on its own, but it can easily be incorporated into a spice blend. This chili powder complements other flavors commonly found in Korean cuisine, such as garlic and sesame, but the possibilities for delicious combinations are endless. You can also enjoy gochugaru-coated fries with a variety of dipping sauces. It plays a crucial role in making gochujang paste, so consider enhancing the spice level with a gochujang dipping sauce. Simply mix gochujang with a bit of mayonnaise for a creamy, spicy dip that pairs perfectly with fries. If you want to elevate the classic ketchup and fries combo, add a touch of gochugaru to your ketchup. For the adventurous, try creating kimchi cheese fries by topping your gochugaru-seasoned fries with chopped kimchi and melted cheese. For the best results, ensure your fries are extra crispy before adding the toppings.

You can find gochugaru in stores or online. While searching, look for packaging that indicates "sun-dried" ("taekyung" or "taeyangcho" in Korean), such as Wang Sun-Dried Coarse Gochugaru. Alternatively, if you're feeling bold, you can make gochugaru at home by grinding deseeded dried chiles into a powder. Store your homemade seasoning in the freezer, where it will last for six months to a year, ensuring you never have bland snacks again. Whether you're sprinkling it over fries or using it in more intricate dishes, gochugaru is definitely a pantry staple worth having.