How Long Does Gochujang Last? Does it Go Bad?

Gochujang is a fermented Korean chili paste made with red chili pepper flakes, glutinous rice, fermented soybean powder, and salt.

Does gochujang go bad?

Like any food item, the answer is yes.

The longevity of gochujang is affected by multiple factors, such as how it is stored, the ingredient quality, and the shelf life of gochujang.

In short, gochujang can last for up to a year or more if stored correctly.

Once opened, it is best to consume it within a few months for optimal flavor and quality.

Gochujang can last for up to a year or more if stored correctly. After opening, it is ideal to consume it within a few months for the best quality and flavor. Store gochujang in the refrigerator after opening.

What is Gochujang?

Gochujang is a flavor-packed bright red paste that adds a fiery, sweet, and tangy kick to any dish. It’s a staple in Korean cuisine and is used in marinades, sauces, soups, stews, and more.

Gochujang has a complex flavor profile, combining heat, sweetness, and saltiness. It’s made from fermented red pepper paste, glutinous rice, and fermented soybean powder.

Its robust flavor makes it widely popular with those who enjoy spicy foods. Apart from adding heat and depth to dishes, it promises numerous health benefits like promoting healthy digestion, boosting the immune system, and reducing inflammation.

Additionally, gochujang is versatile and can be used beyond Korean food. It’s a fantastic addition to dressings, dips, and marinades and can elevate any dish’s flavor to bring bright notes of savory and spicy.

How Long Does Gochujang Last? Does Gochujang Go Bad?

Gochujang can last for a decent amount of time—often for up to a year or more if it is stored correctly. The longevity of gochujang is based on various factors, such as how it’s stored, the ingredient quality, and its shelf life.

Unopened Jar

An unopened jar of gochujang can last for up to two years if stored in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight and moisture. However, check the expiry date to ensure its freshness before using it.

Opened Jar

Once opened, gochujang’s shelf life may reduce, and it is best to consume within a few months for optimal quality. The rule of thumb is to keep it in the refrigerator after opening. Storing it at room temperature is not ideal as it can reduce the paste’s quality, which can lead to spoilage.

How to Tell If Gochujang Has Gone Bad?

Determining whether gochujang has gone bad is relatively easy, as long as you know what to look for.

Check For Mold

One of the most apparent signs of gochujang’s spoiling is the presence of mold. Look for any signs of mold growth or a musty smell, which is a strong indication that the paste has gone bad. It is advisable to discard the paste immediately.

Check For Discoloration or Separation

If gochujang changes color to darker colors or develops watery separation where there’s a clear liquid at the top, it may have gone bad and is unfit for consumption.

Check For Sour or Funky Smell

Gochujang has a distinctive fermented scent, but it shouldn’t have a sour or strange odor. Should the paste smell funky or rancid, it has likely gone bad and should be discarded.

How to Store Gochujang?

Keep It In The Refrigerator

After opening the jar, it’s best to store gochujang in the refrigerator. Being a fermented food, gochujang can develop bacteria or mold that can cause it to spoil quickly. Refrigeration slows down bacterial growth, keeping the paste fresh for an extended period.

Keep It In An Airtight Container

To keep gochujang fresh and free from moisture, it’s essential to keep it in an airtight container. This method will reduce exposure to oxygen, avoiding the growth of bacteria or mold.

Use A Clean Spoon

When using gochujang, avoid contaminating the paste by using a clean spoon. Using the same spoon repeatedly can introduce bacteria into the paste, leading to a shortened shelf life.

Keep It Away From Direct Sunlight

Exposing gochujang to sunlight and heat can alter its flavor and texture. Thus, you must store it in a cool, dark place, away from sunlight and any heat sources, which can ruin the paste.

Conclusion

Gochujang has a long shelf life and can last for up to a year or more if stored correctly. Unopened jars of gochujang can stay fresh for up to two years if stored in a cool, dry place. After opening, it’s best to consume the paste within a few months for optimal flavor and quality. Remember to store gochujang in the refrigerator after opening, and in an airtight container away from sunlight and heat sources.

As with any food, it’s important to check for signs of spoilage before consuming gochujang. Discard the paste if you notice any mold growth, discoloration, liquid separation, or foul odor. Practicing safe storing and handling techniques will help you extend your gochujang’s shelf life and preserve its unique, bold flavor.