Gochujang is a traditional Korean naturally fermented sauce — a rich, complex paste made from red pepper powder, fermented soybeans, glutinous rice, and salt. Just as cheese and wine develop deep flavour through ageing and fermentation, Gochujang acquires its complexity through a traditional Korean fermentation method. Unlike a simple hot sauce, it offers a well-balanced combination of sweetness, saltiness, heat, and umami, making it an extremely versatile base for cooking. Haechandle's Delicious Sun-Dried Gochujang uses sun-dried (taeyangcho) red peppers for a richer colour and more intense flavour.

Yes, Haechandle Delicious Sun-Dried Gochujang 200g is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. It contains no ingredients of animal origin. It is also Halal certified, so those following a Halal diet can use it with confidence. However, please note that this product is not gluten-free. It contains several gluten-bearing ingredients including wheat flour, wheat, and distilled alcohol derived from wheat and barley. Those with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product.

Yes, in accordance with EU food labelling regulations (EU Regulation 1169/2011), this product contains the following major allergens: ① Gluten: Gluten is present via multiple sources — wheat flour, wheat, and distilled alcohol containing wheat and barley. Individuals with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance should not consume this product. ② Soybeans: Soybean and soybean powder are included in the ingredients. Those with soy allergies should exercise caution. Both allergens fall within the EU's 14 mandatory allergen categories. Additionally, this product contains distilled alcohol and is therefore not entirely alcohol-free.

Gochujang is used in an enormous variety of ways in Korean cuisine. Key applications include: ① Stir-fry sauce: as a marinade and seasoning for pork or vegetable stir-fries (Jeyuk Bokkeum, vegetable stir-fry) ② Jjigae base: the essential ingredient in Gochujang Jjigae (Korean fermented pepper paste stew) ③ Bibimbap sauce: mixed with rice and vegetables in the classic Korean rice bowl ④ Marinade: used to marinate meat or tofu before cooking. In a European context, Gochujang can replace BBQ sauce, or be used as a seasoning for pasta and grilled dishes. If you are new to it, start with a small amount and adjust the level of heat to your taste.

Haechandle Delicious Sun-Dried Gochujang contains 6.5g of salt per 100g, which is relatively high. This significantly exceeds the EU threshold for "high salt" (1.5g per 100g), so those on a low-sodium diet should moderate their usage. When cooking, it is advisable to reduce other salty ingredients such as soy sauce or salt to manage overall sodium intake. Storage: Before opening, store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. After opening, refrigerate and always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination. When refrigerated, the product will maintain its quality for several months.