Gochujang Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Gochujang Salmon is a bold and flavorful dish featuring the spicy-sweet kick of Korean chili paste paired with tender, flaky salmon. This recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep, offering a perfect balance of heat, umami, and a hint of sweetness. It’s healthy, satisfying, and comes together in under 30 minutes.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

salmon filletsgochujang (Korean chili paste)soy saucesesame oilhoneygarlic (minced)rice vinegarginger (freshly grated)green onions (for garnish)toasted sesame seeds (optional)lime or lemon wedges (for serving)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, rice vinegar, and ginger until smooth.

Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and spoon the sauce generously over each fillet.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the sauce is slightly caramelized.

Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with lime or lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 12-15 minutesTotal time: 22-25 minutes

Variations

Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly sweetener.

Add a dash of sriracha for extra heat.

Top with thinly sliced cucumbers or radishes for crunch.

Serve over rice, noodles, or a bed of greens for a complete meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.You can also enjoy it cold in salads or wraps.

FAQs

What is gochujang?

Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste made from chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt.

Is gochujang very spicy?

It has a moderate heat level with a rich, slightly sweet and savory flavor.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before marinating.

Do I need to marinate the salmon?

It’s optional, but letting it sit for 10–15 minutes in the sauce can enhance the flavor.

Can I grill the salmon instead of baking?

Absolutely, grill over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side.

What sides go well with this?

Steamed rice, sautéed greens, roasted veggies, or kimchi make great accompaniments.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and marinate the salmon up to a day ahead.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.

Can I use this sauce on other proteins?

Yes, it works great on chicken, tofu, or shrimp.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, reduce the amount of gochujang or add more honey for a milder version.

Conclusion

Gochujang Salmon is a vibrant, delicious meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether baked, grilled, or paired with your favorite sides, it’s a go-to dish that brings Korean-inspired flair to your dinner table. Give it a try and add some spice to your weekly menu.

Print