If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and packed with exciting Korean flair, look no further than this Gochujang Gnocchi Recipe. Soft, pillowy gnocchi coated in a glossy, spicy-sweet gochujang sauce create a sensational harmony of flavors that’s totally addictive. With just a handful of accessible ingredients, this recipe brings a playful twist to a traditional favorite, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or sharing with friends. Get ready to fall in love with gnocchi all over again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, each adding a unique element to the dish. From the chewy texture of potato gnocchi to the bold umami of gochujang, every component plays a deliciously vital role.
- 1 pound potato gnocchi: Whether store-bought or homemade, these soft dumplings are the star of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a deep, nutty aroma that elevates the sauce beautifully.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Provides a fragrant base and enhances complexity.
- 1 tablespoon gochujang: This Korean chili paste gives the sauce its signature spicy and slightly sweet kick.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Brings savory saltiness to balance out the heat and sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar: Sweetens the sauce just enough to create a perfect flavor harmony.
- ¼ cup water: Helps to thin the sauce and create a glossy finish.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional): Adds a faint tang to brighten up the richness.
- ½ cup chopped scallions: Fresh, crisp, and colorful garnish that livens up every bite.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds: Adds crunch and a toasty flavor contrast.
- Optional toppings (chopped cilantro, fried egg, crushed peanuts): Customize for extra flavor layers and texture.
How to Make Gochujang Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in the potato gnocchi and cook until they float to the top—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This simple test means they’re perfectly cooked and just waiting to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Base
While your gnocchi cooks, heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it releases that irresistible, fragrant aroma. This quick step builds a savory foundation you’ll notice in every bite.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Next, stir in the gochujang, soy sauce, honey, water, and optional rice vinegar. Allow this mixture to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, giving the sauce a chance to meld together and become luxuriously glossy and slightly thickened.
Step 4: Toss Gnocchi in the Sauce
Add the drained gnocchi straight into the pan with your sauce, then toss everything together to coat every piece evenly. Keep sautéing for another 2 to 3 minutes so the gnocchi develop a light crispness on the edges and soak up all that wonderful flavor.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the gnocchi are perfectly coated and lightly crispy, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds on top along with any optional garnishes like cilantro, a fried egg, or crushed peanuts for added flair. Serve immediately while it’s warm and irresistible.
How to Serve Gochujang Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh scallions bring a crisp bite and vibrant color, while toasted sesame seeds provide delightful crunch and a toasty flavor. For an extra boost, a fried egg on top adds richness and indulgence, while cilantro and crushed peanuts introduce fresh herbal and nutty notes. These simple touches turn the dish into a feast for both eyes and palate.
Side Dishes
This gochujang gnocchi pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides such as a crisp cucumber salad or steamed greens like bok choy or spinach. A simple kimchi on the side can add extra fermented tang and heat, creating an exciting Korean-inspired meal with balanced textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the gnocchi in shallow bowls topped with your favorite vibrant garnishes to highlight the rich colors and textures. For casual entertaining, present it family-style in the skillet at the table so everyone can help themselves to the spicy, saucy goodness. You can also try layering it over a bed of steamed rice for a hearty fusion twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover gochujang gnocchi can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the texture of gnocchi may firm up slightly after chilling, but the flavors will deepen and remain delicious.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Gochujang Gnocchi Recipe handy for longer, freezing is an option. Place cooked gnocchi and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
For the best texture when reheating, warm the gnocchi in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This method helps re-crisp the edges while keeping the inside soft and tender. Avoid microwaving as it can make the gnocchi rubbery or too soft.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works just as well — just cook them according to package instructions before adding to the sauce. They might take a minute or two longer to float, so keep an eye on them.
How spicy is this Gochujang Gnocchi Recipe?
The spice level is moderate thanks to the gochujang. If you prefer it milder, simply reduce the amount or balance with extra honey or sugar. For heat lovers, you can even add a sprinkle of chili flakes or more gochujang.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Use vegan-friendly gnocchi and check that your gochujang does not contain any animal products. Skip optional toppings like fried eggs and try tofu or mushrooms instead for extra protein.
What can I substitute for gochujang if I don’t have any?
While gochujang is key for authentic flavor, you can mix a combination of chili paste (like sambal oelek), miso paste, and a bit of honey or brown sugar as a substitute in a pinch.
Is it necessary to pan-fry the gnocchi?
Pan-frying the gnocchi after boiling is optional but highly recommended if you love crispy edges and a bit of texture contrast. It makes the dish even more delightful and adds a lovely golden crust.
Final Thoughts
This Gochujang Gnocchi Recipe is that rare combo of comfort and excitement, bringing Korean-inspired flavors straight to your dinner table with ease and flair. It’s quick to make, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to impress. I can’t wait for you to try it and see why it quickly became one of my all-time favorites!
Print
Gochujang Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion, Korean-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Gochujang Gnocchi is a delightful fusion dish that combines pillowy potato gnocchi with a spicy, savory Korean-inspired gochujang sauce. This easy recipe sautés garlic and a flavorful mixture of gochujang, soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar, coating the gnocchi perfectly for a glossy, slightly crispy finish. Garnished with scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and optional toppings like cilantro or fried egg, it makes a quick and satisfying main course with a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional)
Garnishes
- ½ cup chopped scallions
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Optional: chopped cilantro, fried egg, or crushed peanuts for topping
Instructions
- Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package directions until they float to the top, about 2–3 minutes. Drain the gnocchi and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or nonstick pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: Stir in gochujang, soy sauce, honey, water, and rice vinegar if using. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the sauce is well combined and slightly thickened.
- Toss Gnocchi in Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss them to coat evenly with the sauce. Continue sautéing for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to develop slightly crispy edges and the sauce to become glossy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and any optional toppings such as cilantro, fried egg, or crushed peanuts. Serve hot immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of gochujang to match your preferred spice level.
- For extra crispness, pan-fry the gnocchi alone before adding the sauce.
- The dish can be made vegetarian by ensuring the gnocchi and gochujang used are vegetarian-friendly.
- Rice vinegar is optional but helps balance the flavors with acidity.
