Gochujang mayo is a creamy, spicy condiment that combines the rich umami flavor of gochujang (Korean red chili paste) with the richness of mayonnaise. This tasty sauce adds a kick of heat and depth of flavor to sandwiches, burgers, fries, tacos, and more.

Gochujang mayo is easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. It comes together in just a couple of minutes by whisking together mayonnaise and gochujang paste. The result is a bright orange, mildly spicy sauce that makes an excellent dip, spread, or drizzle.

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Using Gochujang Mayo

This versatile condiment can be used as either a drizzle, spread, or dipping sauce to add flavor to a variety of foods:

As a Dip: Excellent paired with fries, tater tots, chicken nuggets, fish sticks, and veggie sticks for dipping. The creamy texture and spicy kick make it addicting.
On Burgers: Slather gochujang mayo on beef burgers, turkey burgers, portobello burgers, or veggie burgers for extra flavor. It's also great in burger wraps and sandwiches.
In Tacos: Drizzle or dollop some gochujang mayo into beef, chicken, fish, or tofu tacos for a touch of creaminess and spice.
On Salads: Toss some gochujang mayo into leafy green or potato salads for a spicy dressing with a creamy texture.
With Seafood: Use it as a sauce for fish cakes, crab cakes, shrimp cakes, or fried seafood for a Korean flair.
On Sandwiches: Spread it on roast beef, pork, turkey, or ham sandwiches to amp up the flavor.
With Chicken: Excellent paired with fried chicken, chicken nuggets, chicken sandwiches, or chicken wraps.
On Baked Potatoes: Dollop some gochujang mayo onto baked russet or sweet potatoes for a quick protein-packed topping.
With Eggs: Add it to deviled eggs or use it as a sauce for egg sandwiches. The creaminess complements the eggs nicely.
On Grilled Meats: Brush it on grilled chicken, steak, pork chops, or kebabs for a sweet, spicy glaze.

Gochujang Substitutes

If you don't have gochujang paste, you can still make a similar spicy mayo by using these substitute ingredients:

Sriracha - Use about 1 tablespoon per 1/2 cup mayo for a looser, spicier sauce.
Harissa paste - North African chili paste with robust flavor. Use 2 teaspoons per 1/2 cup mayo.
Sambal oelek - Indonesian chili paste without seeds. Start with 1 teaspoon per 1/2 cup mayo.
Miso paste + sriracha - For more umami flavor. Use 1/2 tablespoon miso and 1 teaspoon sriracha per 1/2 cup mayo.
Sweet chili sauce - Chinese chili sauce with tangy flavor. Use 1-2 tablespoons per 1/2 cup mayo.

When subbing, add the chili paste gradually and taste frequently until you achieve the desired spiciness and flavor. The sauce may be thinner than gochujang mayo.

Variations

There are endless options for customizing gochujang mayo to suit your tastes:

For gochujang aioli, add 2-3 minced garlic cloves
For a creamier texture, use part sour cream or Greek yogurt
For an extra kick, add cayenne, crushed red pepper, or hot sauce
For smoky flavor, add paprika or chipotle powder
For herby flavor, add cilantro, basil, dill, or parsley
For tangy flavor, add more lime juice, rice vinegar, or ketchup
For sweetness, add honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar
For an umami boost, add sesame oil, fish sauce, or oyster sauce

Feel free to mix and match different add-ins until you create your ideal balanced flavor.

How to Store Gochujang Mayo

To retain the fresh taste as long as possible, proper storage is key:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Glass jars or plastic containers both work. Metal can react with acids.
Ensure the container has a tight seal to prevent leaks.
If separating into smaller containers, leave 1/2 inch room at the top for expansion.
Use clean utensils each time to prevent contamination.
If the mayo separates, stir vigorously before using to reincorporate.
For longer shelf life, store in the freezer for 2-3 months. Thaw in refrigerator before using.

FAQs

Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Kewpie?

Yes, regular mayo works fine, but Kewpie has a richer umami flavor that complements the gochujang well.

Is gochujang spicy?

Yes, gochujang contains red chili peppers so it has a mild to moderate spicy heat depending on the amount used.

Where do I find gochujang paste?

Look in the Asian section of large supermarkets or visit an Asian grocery store. Online retailers also carry it.

How long does gochujang mayo last in the fridge?

It will stay fresh for 5-7 days stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze gochujang mayo?

Yes, it freezes well for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

What's the difference between gochujang and sriracha?

Gochujang is a Korean chili paste with a deeper, more fermented flavor while sriracha is a Thai chili sauce with vinegar and garlic notes.

What should I dip in gochujang mayo?

It's fantastic for dipping fries, tots, nuggets, spring rolls, egg rolls, chips, and fried seafood.

What proteins pair well with gochujang mayo?

It's delicious with beef, pork, chicken, turkey, fish and shrimp. The sweet, savory, spicy notes complement them all.

Conclusion

With its creamy texture and addicting flavor, gochujang mayo is sure to become your new favorite condiment. Use this quick and easy recipe to make it anytime cravings strike.

Customize it to your tastes and keep a batch handy to elevate sandwiches, burgers, tacos, salads, and any dish needing a spicy kick.