Description
Ssamjang brings Korean street food magic right into home kitchens, blending spicy and savory flavors in an irresistible dip. Barbecue enthusiasts and flavor seekers will discover a perfect companion that elevates grilled meats and fresh vegetables with authentic Korean zest.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) mayonnaise or sour cream
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) honey (or sugar)
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) rice vinegar (optional, for a tangy touch)
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
Garnish and Texture:
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) finely chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) toasted sesame seeds
- Water (as needed, for thinning)
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together doenjang and gochujang until a uniform, rich base develops, releasing the intense fermented and spicy flavor profiles.
- Drizzle sesame oil into the paste, stirring continuously to create a smooth, glossy consistency that helps meld the Korean condiment’s robust characteristics.
- Gradually incorporate mayonnaise, blending carefully to transform the mixture into a luxuriously creamy texture that softens the bold underlying flavors.
- Introduce a splash of rice vinegar to brighten the sauce, cutting through the richness and adding a subtle tangy dimension that elevates the overall taste.
- Mince fresh garlic cloves and fold them into the mixture, allowing their pungent aroma to infuse the ssamjang with an additional layer of savory complexity.
- Optional: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and finely chopped scallions across the surface for a decorative touch and delicate crunch that complements the sauce’s creamy base.
- Transfer the finished ssamjang to a serving bowl, ready to accompany grilled meats, act as a vibrant dipping sauce, or enhance various Korean-inspired dishes with its multifaceted flavor profile.
Notes
- Experiment with different mayo types like Japanese Kewpie or Greek yogurt for unique creaminess and tang.
- Adjust spice levels by modifying gochujang quantity, making it mild or extra fiery based on personal heat tolerance.
- Toast sesame seeds lightly before garnishing to amplify their nutty, aromatic profile and enhance overall flavor complexity.
- Store leftover ssamjang in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days, allowing flavors to meld and intensify.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg