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Spicy Korean Ssamjang Recipe

Spicy Korean Ssamjang Recipe


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4.6 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Creamy Korean Ssamjang sauce blends traditional Korean flavors with modern culinary techniques. Rich umami notes complement grilled meats and vegetable wraps, offering a delightful experience for adventurous palates.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tbsps (30 ml) doenjang
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) gochujang
  • 2 tbsps (30 ml) mayonnaise or sour cream
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) honey
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) rice vinegar
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) sesame seeds, toasted
  • Water (as needed, for thinning)

Instructions

  1. Flavor Fusion: Whisk doenjang and gochujang in a mixing bowl until a uniform, rich base develops, melding the intense fermented and spicy Korean condiment characteristics.
  2. Texture Enhancement: Drizzle sesame oil and mayonnaise into the paste, stirring continuously to create a smooth, luxuriously creamy texture that softens bold underlying flavors while maintaining depth.
  3. Aromatic Elevation: Mince fresh garlic and fold into the mixture, then add a splash of rice vinegar to brighten the sauce, introducing a tangy dimension that cuts through the richness.
  4. Finishing Touch: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and finely chopped scallions to add a delicate crunch and visual appeal, transforming the ssamjang into a vibrant, multi-dimensional condiment ready to accompany grilled meats or serve as a dynamic dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Balance Flavor Intensity: Adjust doenjang and gochujang ratios to control spiciness and saltiness, ensuring a harmonious blend that suits personal taste preferences.
  • Achieve Smooth Consistency: Whisk ingredients thoroughly and slowly incorporate mayonnaise to prevent separation and create a silky, even texture.
  • Enhance Aromatic Depth: Finely mince garlic for maximum flavor distribution and let the mixture rest briefly to allow ingredients to meld and develop complex taste profiles.
  • Customize Dietary Needs: Substitute mayonnaise with vegan alternatives like cashew cream or tofu-based spread to make the ssamjang suitable for plant-based diets while maintaining creamy richness.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 95
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 575 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 5 mg