Are you someone who is totally obsessed with Korean delicacies and love their spice quotient, but often wonder what gives these Korean delights that perfect taste and texture? Then here’s one of the best kept secrets of
Korean cuisine
that can instantly amp up the taste and experience of any delicacy. Here’s all you need to know about this fermented spice condiment and its lesser known health benefits and how you can recreate the same magic at home.
The secret Korean condiment
Well,
Gochujang
is that popular Korean
fermented chili paste
, which adds a unique taste, flavour and texture to most oriental delicacies.
But you will be surprised to know that much like it’s unique taste and flavour, this condiment is loaded with nutrients that can naturally help in improving metabolic rate and improve gut health.
What is Gochujang? How is it made?
Gochujang is a popular Korean fermented chili paste, which is extensively used in Korean cuisine. This unique condiment is made using red chili peppers, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. This traditional condiment is then aged in earthenware pots, which gives Gochujang a distinctive savory, sweet, and spicy flavor and taste.
Why Gochujang?
Gochujang contains protein derived from fermented soybeans, offering a plant-based protein source. The inclusion of ingredients like fermented soybeans and glutinous rice provides dietary fiber. The fermentation process also contributes to the synthesis of B vitamins. The fermentation process adds depth to its taste and introduces beneficial compounds. though specific amounts can vary. Apart from that, this condiment is also loaded with minerals such as iron and magnesium, from fermented soybeans and an antioxidant called
Capsaicin
from red chili peppers, which can help accelerate metabolism, reduce inflammation and boost gut health and promote weight loss.
Is it good for your health?
Fermented foods are naturally rich in probiotics that are beneficial for digestive health and helps in boosting metabolic rate, which helps in effective weight loss. Fermented soybeans in Gochujang makes it a great source of probiotics that can boost healthy gut microbiomes. Probiotics are live bacteria that are beneficial for digestion and overall gut health.
However, it's important to note that Gochujang also contains chili peppers, which can be spicy. Spicy foods can sometimes irritate the digestive system, especially for individuals who are sensitive to spicy foods or have pre-existing digestive conditions such as acid reflux or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). People suffering from such sensitivity can either avoid or add only a small amount of this fermented paste to avoid triggering ailments and allergic reactions. Thus, to reap the benefits of this chili condiment it is best to consume it in moderation.
