How Long Will Gochujang Paste Keep?

Asked by CyclingCook. Answered on 14th January 2012

Full question

I've had some gochujang paste in the fridge for a couple of months now. Should I throw it out or can I keep cooking with it? The packaging is not in English so I have no idea what it says!

Our answer

Gochujang paste usually comes in a red resealable box and if you look on the side there should be a date printed in numerals - this is the expiry date for the paste. The paste should be used by this date.

As the paste is made from fermented ingredients the shelf life can be quite long. However, once you have opened the paste it needs to be kept in the fridge, tightly sealed. If you aren't using it very often then it may be a good idea to wrap the box tightly in some clingfilm (plastic wrap) to help prevent the paste from drying out.

If there is no date on the box then we would suggest using the paste within 3 months of opening, provided it is refrigerated.