Gochujang Cranberry Sauce

Name: Gochujang Cranberry Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 12 oz fresh cranberries; 1/2 cup water; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 2 tbsp gochujang; 1/4 tsp salt

Published: August 29, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Gochujang Cranberry Sauce is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a breeze for any home cook
The unique flavor profile combines heat and sweetness, creating a memorable dish
Its deep red color adds visual appeal to your table, ensuring it stands out
Perfect for Thanksgiving but versatile enough to accompany various dishes throughout the year

I vividly remember my family’s reaction when they first tasted this delightful sauce at our holiday dinner. festive pomegranate salad It instantly became a cherished tradition.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Cranberries: Look for bright, plump cranberries; they should be firm to the touch for the best flavor.
Gochujang: This Korean chili paste adds depth and heat; opt for a quality brand for authentic taste.
Sugar: Use granulated sugar to balance out the tartness of the cranberries; brown sugar can add extra richness.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This tangy vinegar enhances flavor and balances sweetness; feel free to substitute with lemon juice if needed. apple pecan salad pairing.
Water: You’ll need some water to help cook down the cranberries into a luscious sauce.
Salt: Just a pinch will help bring out all those flavors beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Cooking Space: Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools. A medium saucepan will work wonders here—make sure it’s large enough to contain any bubbling action.

Combine Ingredients in Pan: Toss those fresh cranberries into your saucepan along with water, sugar, apple cider vinegar, gochujang, and salt. You want everything mixed well so that each cranberry gets its fair share of those fabulous flavors.

Cook Until Bubbly: Place your saucepan over medium heat and bring everything to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally. The cranberries will start popping and releasing their juices—this is where things get exciting!

Simmer for Flavor Development: Reduce heat to low once boiling occurs. Let this simmer for about 15 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and looks like a luxurious sauce.

Taste Test Time!: Give your sauce a quick taste test—this is crucial! Adjust sweetness or spice as needed by adding more sugar or gochujang according to your personal preference.

Cool Down Before Serving: Once satisfied with flavor and consistency, remove from heat and let it cool completely before serving. Feel free to make this ahead of time; it keeps well in an airtight container for up to two weeks in the fridge!

Enjoy crafting your Gochujang Cranberry Sauce—it’s worth every moment spent in the kitchen! For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles recipe.

You Must Know

This Gochujang Cranberry Sauce adds a spicy twist to your holiday table
Its vibrant color and tangy flavor pair beautifully with turkey or ham, making it a must-have
Plus, the unique blend of heat and sweetness will impress your guests!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by simmering cranberries with sugar and water until they burst. Then, mix in gochujang for that spicy kick, allowing it to meld for a rich flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cranberries for mixed berries or add nuts for crunch. A splash of orange juice can bring a zesty brightness to this sauce!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Gochujang Cranberry Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Simply reheat on the stove over low heat when ready to serve.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh cranberries for optimal texture and flavor; frozen can become mushy
Always taste before serving; adjust sweetness or spice as needed
A touch of lime juice can brighten flavors without overpowering the sauce

Sometimes, I whip up this Gochujang Cranberry Sauce just because it makes my kitchen smell incredible—friends often ask for the recipe!

FAQ

Can I use other types of chili paste?

Yes, other chili pastes can work, but gochujang gives unique depth and sweetness.

How long does this sauce last in the fridge?

Properly stored, Gochujang Cranberry Sauce lasts about one week in the fridge.

What should I serve with Gochujang Cranberry Sauce?

Serve it with turkey, ham, or even grilled chicken for a delightful flavor boost!

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📖 Recipe Card