Go Back
korean salad dressing

Authentic Korean Salad Dressing

This vibrant Korean salad dressing balances spicy gochujang with sweet honey, tangy rice vinegar, and aromatic garlic and ginger for a versatile condiment that elevates salads and more.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 8 tablespoons
Course: Asian & Global Dressings
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 35

Ingredients
  

Korean Salad Dressing Base
  • 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for vegan option
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
Optional Add-ins
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish
  • 1 green onion finely sliced
  • ½ teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) for extra heat

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring spoons
  • Glass jar with lid

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, combine gochujang, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey. The gochujang might be thick, so use a spatula to scrape it from the measuring spoon.
  2. Whisk vigorously until the mixture becomes smooth and the gochujang is fully incorporated with no lumps remaining.
  3. Add minced garlic and freshly grated ginger, whisking until evenly distributed throughout the dressing. The fresh aromatics will bloom and intensify the flavor.
  4. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning with extra honey for sweetness or rice vinegar for tanginess. The perfect balance should have spicy, sweet, and tangy notes.
  5. If the dressing seems too thick, add 1-2 teaspoons of water and whisk until you reach your desired consistency. For a thinner dressing, continue adding water in small increments.
  6. Transfer to an airtight glass jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using to allow the flavors to meld together.

Notes

  • For best results, allow the dressing to rest for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors develop.
  • The dressing will keep in the refrigerator for up to 7 days in an airtight container.
  • Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of gochujang.