Tomato Paste + Cayenne + Sugar Substitute for Gochujang: Exact Ratio
Looking for a gochujang substitute? Tomato Paste + Cayenne + Sugar works as a direct replacement. Use 2 tbsp tomato paste + 1/2 tsp cayenne + 1 tsp sugar for 2 tbsp in any recipe that calls for gochujang. This swap works best for stews, sauces, marinades.
Best Substitute
Tomato Paste + Cayenne + Sugar
2 tbsp tomato paste + 1/2 tsp cayenne + 1 tsp sugar for 2 tbsp
Provides thickness and color with adjustable heat. Add more sugar for sweeter profile.
Tips When Replacing Gochujang in Recipes
Gochujang's unique fermented flavor is hard to replicate exactly, but you can get close by combining heat, sweetness, and umami. Store opened gochujang in the refrigerator for up to a year.
What Is Gochujang and Why Substitute It?
Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste that combines spicy, sweet, and savory flavors with a thick, sticky texture. It's essential in Korean cooking for marinades, stews, and bibimbap.
Tomato Paste + Cayenne + Sugar is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of gochujang. For a complete list of gochujang substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full gochujang substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Gochujang?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use tomato paste + cayenne + sugar instead of gochujang?
Yes, you can use tomato paste + cayenne + sugar as a substitute for gochujang. Use 2 tbsp tomato paste + 1/2 tsp cayenne + 1 tsp sugar for 2 tbsp. Provides thickness and color with adjustable heat. Add more sugar for sweeter profile.
How much tomato paste + cayenne + sugar equals gochujang?
Use 2 tbsp tomato paste + 1/2 tsp cayenne + 1 tsp sugar for 2 tbsp to replace gochujang with tomato paste + cayenne + sugar. Works best for stews, sauces, marinades.
What is the best substitute for gochujang?
Tomato Paste + Cayenne + Sugar is a popular substitute for gochujang. Use 2 tbsp tomato paste + 1/2 tsp cayenne + 1 tsp sugar for 2 tbsp for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our gochujang substitute page.
Is tomato paste + cayenne + sugar a vegan substitute for gochujang?
Yes, tomato paste + cayenne + sugar is vegan and works as a plant-based alternative to gochujang. Use 2 tbsp tomato paste + 1/2 tsp cayenne + 1 tsp sugar for 2 tbsp.