Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta (I love using spaghetti for its classic texture)
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste; substitute with sriracha for milder heat)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar (for that perfect touch of sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (adds a rich, nutty aroma)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth (to loosen the sauce)
- 1/2 cup sliced scallions (white and green parts separated)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Optional proteins: 1 cup cooked shredded chicken, tofu cubes, or sautéed shrimp
- Optional vegetables: julienned carrots, spinach, or mushrooms
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and water or broth in a small bowl until smooth. This sauce will be the heart of your dish.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. This step always reminds me of Mama Lou’s kitchen—garlic sizzling gently, filling the air with warmth.
- Add optional proteins or vegetables now if using, cooking until just tender or heated through. Ouma and I loved adding mushrooms because they soaked up the sauce so well.
- Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to deepen the flavors, stirring occasionally.
- Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce feels too thick. This helps coat every strand perfectly.
- Stir in the white parts of the scallions, saving the green parts for garnish. The fresh bite of scallions adds a lovely contrast.
- Serve immediately, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and the green parts of the scallions. Each bite is a reminder of family meals when we gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
