Gochujang Korean Spicy Fries

Gochujang Korean Spicy Fries are crispy golden fries tossed in a bold, flavorful glaze made with gochujang, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness. These addictive fries combine the comfort of classic fries with the heat and umami punch of Korean cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These fries are not your average side dish—they’re spicy, savory, slightly sweet, and totally crave-worthy. Perfect for sharing, snacking, or serving alongside grilled meats or burgers, they offer a creative twist on loaded fries. They’re easy to customize, quick to make, and full of vibrant flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Frozen or fresh-cut French fries
• Gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
• Soy sauce
• Honey or brown sugar
• Rice vinegar
• Garlic (minced)
• Sesame oil
• Green onions (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Neutral oil (for frying or baking)

Directions

1. Cook the fries according to package instructions or fry until golden and crisp. Set aside.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, add sesame oil and garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Stir in gochujang, soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Toss the hot fries in the sauce until evenly coated, or drizzle the sauce over plated fries.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
6. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add shredded cheese or mozzarella for spicy Korean cheese fries.
• Top with kimchi or pickled vegetables for extra tang.
• Include a fried egg for a Korean-style loaded breakfast fry.
• Use sweet potato fries for a sweeter, richer base.
• Drizzle with Japanese mayo or sriracha mayo for creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

These fries are best enjoyed immediately. However, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to regain crispness. Avoid microwaving as it softens the fries. The gochujang sauce can be made in advance and stored for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

FAQs

What is gochujang?

Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste that is spicy, slightly sweet, and rich in umami flavor.

Can I use store-bought fries?

Yes, frozen fries work perfectly and save time—just cook them until crisp before adding the sauce.

Are these fries very spicy?

They have a medium heat level. You can adjust the amount of gochujang to make them milder or spicier.

Can I make them in the air fryer?

Absolutely. Air fry the fries until crisp, then toss in the sauce or drizzle it on top.

What should I serve these with?

These fries pair well with Korean BBQ, fried chicken, burgers, or on their own as a spicy snack.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, ensure the gochujang and sweetener (such as maple syrup instead of honey) are vegan.

How do I keep the fries crispy?

Toss them with the sauce just before serving, and use a baking rack for oven-baking to avoid sogginess.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Is gochujang gluten-free?

Some brands are gluten-free, but always check the label to confirm.

Can I double the sauce for dipping?

Yes, double the sauce and serve it on the side for extra heat and flavor.

Conclusion

Gochujang Korean Spicy Fries are a bold, flavor-packed twist on traditional fries that deliver heat, crunch, and depth in every bite. Whether served as a snack, side, or main dish component, they bring the irresistible taste of Korean street food to your kitchen in a fun and accessible way.

Gochujang Korean Spicy Fries

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Gochujang Korean Spicy Fries are crispy golden fries tossed in a bold and tangy gochujang-based sauce, perfect as a flavorful snack, appetizer, or party side dish.

• Author: Emma Harper
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Korean
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs (680g) russet potatoes, cut into fries
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon water (to thin sauce, if needed)
• Optional: chopped green onions, sesame seeds for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss cut potatoes with vegetable oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on the baking sheet.
3. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fries are golden and crispy.
4. While fries bake, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a small saucepan over low heat. Add a bit of water if sauce is too thick. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.
5. Once fries are baked, transfer them to a large bowl and toss with the warm gochujang sauce until evenly coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

• Adjust gochujang for milder or spicier flavor.
• Use frozen fries for convenience—just bake according to package and toss with sauce.
• Pairs well with a creamy dip like mayo or ranch to balance heat.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg