BBQ sauce is a staple in many American households – it’s perfect for grilled meats, dipping, and adding flavor to any dish. But what about Korean BBQ sauce?

This delicious, sweet, and spicy sauce is perfect for Korean BBQ but can also be used as a marinade, dipping sauce, or even as a condiment on your favorite sandwich or burger. So, what is Korean BBQ sauce, and how do you make it?

I’ll share my favorite Korean BBQ sauce recipe and discuss a few tasty variations so that you can customize the flavor as you like it. I’ll also share some tips on how to use Korean BBQ sauce and some nutrition information.

By the end of this recipe post, you’ll be eager to try Korean BBQ sauce for yourself!

What is Korean BBQ Sauce?

Korean BBQ sauce is a spicy and sweet sauce that is perfect for grilling or marinating meats. You can make it with various ingredients, including gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and garlic.

Korean BBQ sauce originated in Korea, as its name suggests, but has gained popularity in other parts of the world recently. The sauce is perfect for those who enjoy a little sweetness with their spice, as the sugar balances out the heat from the gochujang.

What Does Korean BBQ Taste Like?

The gochujang gives the sauce its signature spicy flavor, while the brown sugar and rice vinegar add a touch of sweetness. The soy sauce and sesame oil provide a savory depth of flavor, and the garlic rounds it out with some pungency.

You can adjust the ratio of these ingredients to suit your taste, but the overall flavor of Korean BBQ sauce or gochujang BBQ sauce should be sweet, spicy, and slightly tangy.

And that’s it! You now have a delicious, homemade Korean BBQ sauce that you can use for grilling, marinating, or dipping.

If you would like to change up the flavor of your Korean BBQ sauce, here are a few variations to try:

• Add a teaspoon of honey for a sweeter sauce.
• Add a tablespoon of sriracha for more heat.
• Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar for a tangier flavor.
• Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

Tips & Tricks for Korean BBQ Sauce

Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your Korean BBQ sauce:

Longer Marinating

If you’re using the sauce as a marinade, give it at least 30 minutes to work its magic. The longer you marinate the sauce, the more flavorful your meat will be.

Dipping Sauce

You can use this sauce as an excellent and flavorful dipping sauce. Simply double the recipe and set half of it aside for dipping.

Leftover Sauce

Leftover Korean BBQ sauce can get used as a condiment on your favorite sandwich or burger.

Too Thick?

If you find the BBQ sauce is too thick, thin it out with a little water or beef broth.

Too Thin?

If the BBQ sauce is too thin, simmer it over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are a few answers to some commonly asked questions about Korean BBQ sauce:

Can I make Korean BBQ sauce without gochujang?

Yes, you can make the sauce without gochujang, but it won’t have that signature spicy flavor.

What can I use Korean BBQ sauce for?

The sauce is perfect for grilling, marinating, or dipping. It’s also perfect for a barbecue stir fry. 

How long will Korean BBQ sauce last?

The sauce will last for up to 2 weeks when stored in a jar or container with a tight-fitting lid in the fridge.

Is Korean BBQ sauce gluten-free?

Yes, Korean BBQ sauce is naturally gluten-free. 

What is the difference between BBQ sauce and Korean BBQ sauce?

The main difference between BBQ sauce and Korean BBQ sauce is the Asian flavors in the ingredients. 

BBQ sauce is usually made with ketchup, vinegar, sugar, and spices, while Korean BBQ sauce includes gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and garlic.

Is Korean BBQ sauce like teriyaki sauce?

Korean BBQ sauce has a similarly tangy, sweet, and spicy flavor, as well as a similar sticky texture to teriyaki sauce. They also both have a soy sauce base.

Nutrition Information of Korean BBQ Sauce

One serving of Korean BBQ sauce (2 tablespoons) has approximately:

• 30 calories
• 1.5 grams of fat
• 4 grams of carbohydrates
• 2 grams of sugar
• 230 milligrams of sodium

While Korean BBQ sauce is relatively low in calories, it is high in sodium due to the soy sauce. If you are watching your sodium intake, ensure you adjust the recipe accordingly.

Conclusion

Korean BBQ sauce is a delicious, versatile condiment that you can use for various purposes, including grilling, marinating, or dipping. You can also use it as a bulgogi sauce substitute.

You can tailor the flavor of Korean BBQ sauce to suit your taste by adjusting the ratio of these ingredients. Give it a try the next time you’re in the mood for something different!

Do you like Korean BBQ sauce? What’s your favorite way to use it? Let us know in the comments below!