Creamy Korean Ssamjang Pasta

Creamy Korean Ssamjang Pasta is a unique fusion dish that combines the bold, savory flavors of ssamjang—a classic Korean condiment—with the rich, velvety texture of a cream-based pasta sauce. Ssamjang, made with fermented soybean paste (doenjang) and spicy-sweet gochujang, lends the dish an umami-packed punch, while the cream balances the heat and enhances the overall richness. This fusion of Korean and Italian cuisines creates a dish that’s both comforting and bold, perfect for adventurous food lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.

This recipe is easy to make and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or an impressive dish for a dinner party. Garnished with fresh herbs, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sesame oil, this pasta delivers layers of flavor with every bite. Whether you’re new to Korean ingredients or a long-time fan, Creamy Korean Ssamjang Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with Creamy Korean Ssamjang Pasta:

• Bold and Unique Flavor: The ssamjang gives this dish a savory, spicy, and slightly sweet taste that’s unlike any other pasta dish.
• Creamy Comfort: The addition of cream makes the sauce luscious and indulgent.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, add proteins, or experiment with toppings to make it your own.
• Fusion at Its Best: This dish seamlessly blends the best of Korean and Italian cuisines into one delicious meal.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 plate of pasta

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 520
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 23g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or fettuccine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1/4 cup ssamjang (Korean soybean paste)
• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste, optional for added heat)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Protein Additions:

• 4 oz (115g) cooked chicken breast (sliced or shredded)
• 4 oz (115g) cooked shrimp
• 6 oz (170g) thinly sliced beef or pork

For Garnish:

• 2 green onions (sliced thinly)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
• Drizzle of sesame oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt generously, then cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

1. Add the ssamjang and gochujang to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the aromatics. Cook for 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
2. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well-blended.
3. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well and let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy ssamjang sauce to coat evenly.
2. Gradually add reserved pasta water, 1-2 tablespoons at a time, to loosen the sauce and achieve your desired consistency.
3. If adding proteins like chicken, shrimp, or beef, stir them in now to warm through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Plate the pasta and garnish with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh parsley or cilantro.
2. For extra richness, drizzle a little sesame oil on top before serving. Enjoy your Creamy Korean Ssamjang Pasta immediately!

Ingredient Background

• Ssamjang: A savory, umami-rich Korean condiment made from doenjang (fermented soybean paste), gochujang (chili paste), garlic, and sesame oil. It’s commonly used as a dipping sauce or marinade.
• Gochujang: A fermented chili paste that adds a spicy, slightly sweet kick to the dish. It’s optional but highly recommended if you enjoy heat.
• Heavy Cream: Balances the bold flavors of ssamjang and gochujang, creating a silky, rich sauce.
• Sesame Oil: Adds a toasty, nutty aroma that complements the ssamjang.
• Soy Sauce: Enhances the umami depth of the dish.

Technique Tips

1. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Undercook the pasta slightly in the boiling water, as it will finish cooking in the sauce.
2. Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps thicken the sauce and ensures it clings beautifully to the noodles.
3. Control the Heat: Keep the heat low when adding the cream to prevent curdling.
4. Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the gochujang.
5. Toast Sesame Seeds: Lightly toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet to bring out their flavor before using them as a garnish.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Fettuccine Ssamjang Alfredo: Swap spaghetti for fettuccine for a thicker, creamier texture.
• Cold Ssamjang Pasta Salad: Toss cooked pasta with the ssamjang cream sauce and serve chilled for a refreshing twist.
• Spicy Ssamjang Pasta Bowl: Top the pasta with a poached egg or soft-boiled egg for added richness.
• Vegetarian Ssamjang Pasta: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or tofu.

Additional Tips for Success

• Balance the Flavors: If the sauce tastes too salty, add a splash of pasta water or a pinch of sugar to balance it.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and herbs enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Gochujang Substitution: If you don’t have gochujang, use a pinch of chili flakes or a small amount of sriracha for spice.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Ssamjang Pasta: Stir in a handful of grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese for a fusion of Italian and Korean flavors.
• Seafood Ssamjang Pasta: Add shrimp, scallops, or calamari for a seafood twist.
• Ssamjang Pesto Pasta: Mix ssamjang with a traditional pesto sauce for an herbaceous and umami-rich combination.
• Vegan Creamy Ssamjang Pasta: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream, and swap proteins for plant-based options like tempeh or chickpeas.

Freezing and Storage

• To Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• To Reheat: Warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or water to revive the sauce.
• To Freeze: Freeze the sauce (without the pasta) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use Whole-Grain Pasta: Swap regular pasta for whole-grain, chickpea, or lentil-based pasta for added fiber and protein.
• Reduce Cream: Replace half the heavy cream with chicken broth or unsweetened almond milk for a lighter sauce.
• Add Vegetables: Include broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Casual Dinner Party: Serve the pasta with a side of garlic bread and a simple salad for a complete meal.
• Korean Fusion Night: Pair it with small plates like kimchi pancakes, dumplings, or a spicy cucumber salad.
• Comfort Food Feast: Combine the pasta with a hearty soup, such as miso soup or kimchi jjigae, for an ultimate cozy meal.

Special Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Skillet or sauté pan (for making the sauce)
• Tongs (for tossing pasta in the sauce)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any long or short pasta will work, such as linguine, penne, or rigatoni. Choose what you enjoy most!

2. What can I use instead of ssamjang?
If ssamjang isn’t available, mix equal parts of doenjang (fermented soybean paste) and gochujang for a similar flavor profile.

3. How do I make the dish less spicy?
Reduce or omit the gochujang, as ssamjang itself has mild spice. You can also increase the amount of cream to mellow the heat.

4. Is this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! Simply omit any meat and focus on adding vegetables, mushrooms, or tofu for protein.

5. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Milk can be used, but the sauce will be less rich. Add a tablespoon of butter or cream cheese to make up for the missing creaminess.

6. How do I keep the sauce from separating?
Cook the sauce over low heat and stir constantly when adding the cream to prevent curdling.

7. Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes! Prepare the sauce without the pasta and refrigerate it. Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

8. Can I add cheese to the dish?
Absolutely! Parmesan, mozzarella, or grated Asiago can complement the creamy ssamjang sauce beautifully.

Conclusion

Creamy Korean Ssamjang Pasta is a bold, flavorful fusion dish that’s as exciting as it is comforting. The combination of ssamjang’s savory, spicy notes with the luxurious cream sauce creates a one-of-a-kind pasta experience that bridges the best of Korean and Italian cuisines. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or try something new for your next meal, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Give it a try, customize it to your taste, and enjoy a dish that’s destined to become a household favorite!

Print