Gochugaru

Gochugaru is a Korean chili powder made from dried red chili peppers. It is a key ingredient in Korean cuisine, known for its vibrant red color and smoky, slightly sweet flavor. The peppers are typically sun-dried and then ground into flakes or a powder.

Manufacturers use gochugaru primarily as a spice to add heat, color, and a distinct flavor to foods. It is a staple in Korean dishes like kimchi, stews, and marinades. You can also find it in some Western-style sauces and condiments seeking an ethnic flavor profile.

Gochugaru is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. It is a source of capsaicin, the compound in chili peppers that gives them their heat and may have some antioxidant properties. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated capsaicinoids, but gochugaru itself is not specifically regulated with numeric limits. Evidence on the health effects of capsaicin is mixed, with some studies suggesting benefits and others noting potential for digestive upset in sensitive individuals.