Name: Spicy Gochujang Gnocchi: Quick Vegan Comfort in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 package gnocchi (ensure it's vegan and egg-free); 2 cups cherry tomatoes (or diced ripe plum tomatoes); 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste); 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or gluten-free tamari); 3 scallions scallions (or shallots); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon sweetener (maple syrup or sugar) (optional); 4 oz cream cheese (dairy-free) (or homemade tofu cream cheese)

As I stood in my kitchen the other night, the sweet and spicy aroma of gochujang wafted through the air, transporting me on a tasty journey to Korea. This Quick & Easy Vegan Gochujang Gnocchi is a delightful way to bring that experience home, without spending hours slaving over the stove. With just nine simple ingredients, this dish packs a punch of umami flavor and can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. Not only is it incredibly satisfying as a weeknight meal, but it’s also budget-friendly and perfect for anyone looking to dodge takeout. Imagine comforting gnocchi enveloped in a velvety, spicy sauce that’s both wholesome and delicious—sounds tempting, right? What variations will you try to make this dish your own?

Why is Gochujang Gnocchi so special?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with umami goodness and a delightful kick of spice from the gochujang, transforming ordinary weeknight dinners into culinary adventures.

Quick and Easy: In under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for the busy home cook craving deliciousness without the fuss.

Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or sweeteners, making it adaptable for various dietary needs.

Budget-Friendly: With just nine affordable ingredients, this dish allows you to eat well without breaking the bank—who doesn’t love that?

Crowd-Pleasing: This unique take on gnocchi will impress family and friends, opening the door for entertaining at home without spending hours in the kitchen.

Serve your Gochujang Gnocchi with a refreshing side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone!

Gochujang Gnocchi Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need for a flavorful dish!

For the Gnocchi Base

Gnocchi – Provides the base for the dish; ensure it’s vegan and egg-free.
Cherry Tomatoes – Adds freshness and sweetness to the sauce; can substitute with diced ripe plum tomatoes if needed.

For the Flavor

Gochujang – This Korean chili paste imparts savory and spicy notes; choose your favorite brand, ensuring it’s gluten-free if necessary.
Soy Sauce – Enhances umami flavor; for a gluten-free option, use wheat-free tamari or coconut aminos.

For the Aromatics

Scallions – Adds depth and aroma; can replace with shallots if you prefer.
Garlic – This must-have ingredient gives the dish a flavorful kick.

For Balancing Sweetness

Sweetener (Maple Syrup or Sugar) – Helps balance the heat of gochujang; you can omit it for a less sweet dish.

For Creaminess

Cream Cheese (Dairy-free) – Adds creaminess to the sauce; opt for homemade tofu cream cheese or brands like Kite Hill or Tofutti.

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, you’re just a few steps away from creating your very own Gochujang Gnocchi!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gochujang Gnocchi

Step 1: Boil the Gnocchi
Begin by bringing a large saucepan of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface. This visual cue indicates they are perfectly tender. Reserve 1 cup of cooking water before draining the gnocchi in a colander.

Step 2: Blister the Tomatoes
While the gnocchi is cooking, heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes, allowing the skins to blister and bubble. Stir occasionally until they’re juicy and softened, releasing their vibrant sweetness, which will form the base for your Gochujang Gnocchi sauce.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Add chopped scallions and minced garlic to the blistered tomatoes in the skillet. Sauté the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes until the scallions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step adds a delectable depth of flavor that complements the tomatoes beautifully, setting the stage for the spicy sauce you’re about to create.

Step 4: Incorporate Gochujang
Push the tomato-aromatic mixture aside in the skillet, creating space for the gochujang. Add the gochujang paste and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until the paste is fragrant and slightly toasted. Then, pour in soy sauce, mixing it thoroughly into the tomatoes and garlic, allowing those rich flavors to meld together as you prepare for the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce
Once the gnocchi is cooked, add it directly to the skillet with the spiced tomato mixture. Stir in your reserved cooking water, then add the cream cheese, mixing everything well. The cream cheese will create a velvety sauce that envelops the gnocchi. Keep stirring for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and smooth, adjusting the consistency with additional cooking water as needed.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serve
Give your Gochujang Gnocchi a final taste and adjust seasoning if desired. To serve, dish out the gnocchi into bowls and drizzle with a touch of chili oil for extra heat. Garnish with remaining chopped scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds to add a delightful crunch. Enjoy this vibrant, spicy dish as a comforting main course!

Make Ahead Options

These Gochujang Gnocchi are ideal for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the sauce (blistered tomatoes, aromatics, gochujang, and cream cheese) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Just reheat the prepared sauce in a skillet over medium heat while the gnocchi is boiling. Combine the two with some reserved cooking water, and you’ll enjoy a delightful, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort, just as delicious as when freshly made!

What to Serve with Quick & Easy Vegan Gochujang Gnocchi

Imagine a warm, inviting table filled with flavors that dance together, creating a delightful dining experience that elevates your meal.

Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery texture of garlic bread pairs beautifully, offering a toasty contrast to the creamy gnocchi. A perfect vehicle for scooping up any remaining sauce!
Fresh Arugula Salad: The peppery bite of arugula harmonizes with the savory gnocchi, while a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing brightness to balance the rich flavors.
Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of seasonal vegetables brings sweetness and texture. The caramelization enhances their flavors, complementing the umami-packed gnocchi.
Steamed Broccoli: Tender broccoli adds a touch of green and boosts the nutritional profile. Its crispness provides a lovely textural contrast, making every bite more exciting.
Sesame Cucumber Salad: This cool, crunchy salad offers a refreshing counterpoint with its mild sweetness and tang. It’s like a palate cleanser that enhances your dining experience.
Chili Oil Drizzle: For those who crave more heat, a drizzle of chili oil adds robust flavor and a dazzling finish, perfectly complementing the spicy gochujang.
Sparkling Water with Lime: Elevate your meal with a glass of sparkling water garnished with a lime wedge. The carbonation refreshes your palate, making each dish feel lighter and more delightful.

How to Store and Freeze Gochujang Gnocchi

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and tasty. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes.
Freezer: If you want to save this delicious Gochujang Gnocchi for later, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your frozen gnocchi, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to revive the sauce.
Oven: For a crispy finish, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

Gochujang Gnocchi Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore and customize your Gochujang Gnocchi with these fun and tasty twists!

Veggie Boost: Add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and colorful flair. Mixed veggies create a vibrant dish that enhances both flavor and texture.
Gluten-Free Gnocchi: Substitute regular gnocchi with gluten-free brands or try making homemade gluten-free gnocchi for a delightful twist that caters to your dietary needs.
Gochujang Swap: If you’re seeking a milder flavor, try mixing gochujang with a bit of tomato paste for a sweeter, less spicy sauce. Your taste buds will thank you for the balance!
Creamy Alternatives: Swap in cashew cream or homemade tofu cream cheese if you’re looking for a nutty undertone instead of traditional cream cheese. It offers a unique flavor while maintaining creaminess.
Dinner Delight: Turn this dish into a one-pan meal by incorporating protein like chickpeas or lentils. This not only adds heartiness but also enhances the dish’s nutritional profile, making it a filling meal.
Spicy Enhancements: For those who crave even more heat, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot chili oil before serving. This level of heat will surely excite spice lovers!
Sweetener Variations: Change up the sweetness by swapping maple syrup with agave nectar or coconut sugar for a unique taste. Each sweetener brings its own character to the dish.
Herbs and Aromatics: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or basil before serving for a burst of flavor that complements the spice of gochujang beautifully. Fresh herbs can truly brighten the overall taste profile.

Your Gochujang Gnocchi is versatile, and experimenting with these variations will surely enhance your family’s and friends’ dining experience!

Expert Tips for Gochujang Gnocchi

Reserve Cooking Water: Always save some cooking water to adjust the sauce’s consistency later. It helps to achieve that perfect velvety texture.
Slowly Add Gochujang: Start with less gochujang if you’re uncertain about spice levels. You can always add more to suit your taste!
Vegetable Boost: Incorporate diced zucchini or bell peppers along with the scallions for extra nutrition and color in your Gochujang Gnocchi.
Creaminess Alternatives: If you don’t have dairy-free cream cheese on hand, try cashew cream for a different creamy texture—yum!
Adjust Sweetness: If your sauce is too spicy, balance it with a bit more sweetener or a splash of tomato paste for a milder option.

Gochujang Gnocchi Recipe FAQs

How should I select gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting gnocchi, look for options that are labeled as vegan and egg-free. If you want to make it gluten-free, various brands offer gluten-free gnocchi, or you can try your hand at making it from scratch using potato and gluten-free flour!

How long can I store leftover Gochujang Gnocchi?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to give it a gentle stir when reheating to revive those creamy and spicy flavors!

Can I freeze Gochujang Gnocchi?
Yes, you can freeze your Gochujang Gnocchi for future enjoyment! Simply portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, no worries! Start by adding a tablespoon of reserved cooking water to the skillet and stir until well combined. If further thinning is needed, gradually add more water, stirring until you achieve the desired consistency. Remember, the sauce should be creamy and velvety without being overly runny.

Is this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Very! This Gochujang Gnocchi is inherently vegan and dairy-free. However, if you or your guests have specific allergies, always check the labels of your ingredients, particularly the gochujang and soy sauce, to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.