Gochujang Carbonara
Equipment
- Large Pot for noodles
Ingredients
Noodles
- 1 bundle Korean udon noodles, see note 1
- 2 egg yolks
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp gochujang
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 strips bacon, thinly sliced, see note 2
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Extra Parmesan
- Additional bacon
- Egg yolk, for extra richness
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Boil the udon noodles one minute before al dente and reserve some noodle water before draining.
- In a bowl, mix gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, Parmesan, egg yolks, and heavy cream until smooth.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy.
- Add the cooked noodles and sauce to the pan, tossing to coat.
- Stir in reserved noodle water and let the sauce thicken.
- Serve in a bowl and optionally garnish with more bacon, Parmesan, an egg yolk, and black pepper.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
This Gochujang Carbonara is a bold, creamy fusion of classic Italian carbonara and rich, spicy Korean gochujang. With thick, chewy Korean udon noodles, crispy bacon, and a rich, gochujang-infused sauce, this dish is packed with umami and spice. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for a weeknight dinner that comes together in just 20 minutes!
The Secret to a Silky Carbonara Sauce
A great carbonara sauce is all about emulsification, which is combining fat, egg yolks, and cheese to create a smooth, creamy texture. The reserved noodle water is key, as its starch helps bind everything together without making the sauce too thick or clumpy.
Why Gochujang Carbonara Works So Well
What makes this dish stand out is how naturally the two cuisines blend together. Gochujang adds a deep, slightly sweet heat that cuts through the richness of the egg and cheese, while the bacon ties it all together with its smoky saltiness. The udon noodles hold onto the sauce beautifully, making each bite creamy, chewy, and packed with flavor. It’s an unexpected combination that just works, bringing comfort food vibes with a spicy, modern twist. Whether you’re a carbonara purist or a fusion food fanatic, this dish hits all the right notes.
A Quick & Easy Fusion Pasta Recipe
This gochujang carbonara is ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. Whether you love spicy food or just want to try a new twist on carbonara, this dish delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
How to Serve It & Make It Your Own
This gochujang carbonara is incredibly flexible, too. You can top it with an extra egg yolk for richness, more Parmesan for saltiness, or a drizzle of sesame oil for a nutty finish. A sprinkle of scallions or seaweed flakes can add brightness and texture, and if you’re vegetarian, you can easily swap the bacon for mushrooms or plant-based alternatives. Whether you’re making it for a cozy solo dinner or to impress friends with something unique, this dish is guaranteed to stand out!!
