Best Chile Paste of 2026

"I've started experimenting with Korean cooking, and this gochujang has become a mainstay in my pantry. I love its spicy-sweet, complex flavor and how easy it is to use and store. Even after opening, it lasts a good while in the fridge with proper care!"

"For me, this gochujang is the ideal choice for Eric Kim's Gochujang Caramel Cookies. It’s notably garlic-free, which is perfect for the recipe, and my family can’t get enough of the cookies! It’s also great in other dishes, but those cookies are always in demand."

"I compared this CJ Haechandle Gochujang to the ones supplied in meal kits like Blue Apron, and I find it to be thicker, darker, and noticeably hotter, with a more authentic and full-bodied taste. It really feels close to what’s used in Korea, and offers better value for a genuine flavor."

"I was pleasantly surprised by how well-balanced and flavorful this gochujang is. The blend of medium heat and savory-sweet depth makes it a go-to for me, and I appreciate the clean ingredient list with no corn syrup. The convenient tub stays fresh and seals well, so it's always ready when I need to add a kick to my meals."

"This gochujang transformed my cooking—from bulgogi to stir-fries and even sandwiches, it delivers the perfect mix of spice, salt, and sweetness. The thick, smooth texture works beautifully for marinades or sauces, and I find it to be remarkably versatile and cost-effective. I highly recommend it if you're looking for a flavorful boost in any dish."

"After trying several brands, I can say this is the best Korean chili paste I've purchased. The rich, authentic taste and thick consistency make it a staple in my kitchen. The tub is generously sized, and just a little goes a long way. I use it with everything from chicken to tofu, and it always adds an unbeatable depth of flavor."

"For me, this chili paste is exceptionally versatile—I use it in everything from noodles and soups to salad dressings and eggs. Just a small amount brings a robust, spicy kick and a burst of flavor to almost any dish. I’ve even blended it with cream cheese or butter for vegetables and potatoes."

"As a long-time fan of Sriracha, I was surprised to find that this chili paste delivers even more flavor and a hotter punch. It’s become my go-to for spicing up bland foods, and I love having it on hand for everything from omelets to pasta. Honestly, I might not go back to Sriracha after using this."

"I use this chili paste regularly for Asian recipes and stir fry, and it never disappoints. The smaller bottles are perfect since a little goes a long way, though you should double-check the size before buying to avoid getting a mini bottle by mistake."

"This is absolutely delicious! I love that it's crunchy and spicy, with a real umami punch, but it doesn't overwhelm you with heat. Highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys bold flavors."

"I find this condiment incredibly addictive. The spicy and mildly sweet flavor makes everything taste better, from veggies to chicken. It’s a true flavor bomb, though the price is a bit high."

"The taste is great—salty, savory, and just the right amount of heat. For me, the texture is a bit too crunchy, but it's still a pleasant sauce overall. Would probably buy again despite the texture."

"As someone who values authentic Korean cuisine, I find this gochujang to offer genuine, well-balanced flavor with just the right heat. The versatility makes it a staple in my kitchen—whether for marinades, stir-fries, or sauces, it always elevates my dishes. The resealable packaging is a bonus, keeping it fresh for months. Highly recommended for bold, complex flavors!"

"Having lived in Korea for years, I can confirm this is legit gochujang. The flavor is amazing and true to tradition, and the paste lasts a long time in the fridge. The spice level is mild to moderate, which lets me use it in a wide range of recipes without overwhelming the dish. It's my go-to for Korean BBQ and everyday cooking."

"I was initially nervous about the spice, but this gochujang is actually mild and approachable. The unique fermented flavor took a couple of tries to get used to, but now I love it—especially in noodle dishes. The packaging is secure and keeps the paste fresh for months. It's a great introduction for anyone wanting to try new flavors without too much heat."

"For me, Mother-In-Law's Kimchi Chile Paste is a must-have in my refrigerator. The flavor is robust, deeply fermented, and perfectly spicy without being overwhelming. I love that it adds instant depth to everything from stir-fries to sandwiches, and the quality ingredients and authentic process really shine. If you're after that genuine kimchi kick, this is the easiest and tastiest way to get it."

"Having lived in South Korea, I'm picky about my kimchi seasonings, and I've tried everything from making my own paste to sampling countless brands. Mother-In-Law's stands out for its authentic, complex flavor and reliable freshness. It's so convenient and the spice is just right—not too mild, not too hot. If you want a trustworthy, delicious kimchi paste, this is the one to try."

"I've gone through several gochujang sauces over the years, but this is by far the best. The balance of flavors and freshness of ingredients really sets it apart from the rest. Totally worth it if you want quality."

"This Calabrian Chili Pepper Paste has completely transformed my cooking. The flavor is incredibly rich and layered, with just the right amount of heat—enough to make dishes pop without overwhelming them. I love using it in everything from pasta sauces to sandwich spreads, and the jar seems to last ages. It's now a must-have in my kitchen."

"The moment I tried this paste, I was hooked. The color is gorgeous, and the aroma of roasted peppers is so inviting. I add it to grilled vegetables, dips, and even omelets for a smoky-sweet touch. The spice is mild, which means I can use plenty without worrying about it being too hot. Can't believe I waited so long to try it!"

"I needed something special for a holiday meal and this paste arrived right on time. I whipped up a Calabrian buttery spread for toasted bread, and it turned out absolutely delicious. The quality was perfect and the ordering was seamless."

"I've been a fan of Sambal Oelek for most of my life, and I was thrilled with how quickly it arrived and the excellent condition it was in. I always recommend it to those who love adding a little heat to their food without it being overwhelming. The taste is always spot on."

"Since my local market stopped stocking this brand, I rely on Amazon to get it. I love adding it to all my Chinese dishes and dipping sauces. The color and aroma are exactly what I expect from a quality chili paste."

"I've used Sambal Oelek for decades, and I find this brand to be very similar in taste and texture to the one I grew up with in Holland. I am completely satisfied and hope nothing changes with this product."

"I finally found the perfect chili paste after asking my favorite Turkish restaurant for their secret. The heat is just right, and the flavor really brings out the best in whatever I add it to—especially eggs. The two-pack is a fantastic value, and since a little goes a long way, it'll last me a while. I'm loving experimenting with it on all sorts of foods."

"As someone who loves a good, fresh-tasting hot sauce, this is easily the best all-purpose chili paste I've ever tried. It's not heavy on vinegar, so the flavor stays bright and refreshing. It works on everything from tacos and burritos to pho and gumbo—honestly, I put it on almost anything. This product has become a staple in my fridge."

"I never used to enjoy scrambled eggs, but after trying this sauce, I don't want my eggs any other way. Even with fresh veggies, eggs always tasted bland to me, but this chili paste finally adds the flavor I was missing. My only complaint is that the jars are too small for how often I use it!"

"I was genuinely surprised by how much flavor and subtle heat this added to my meal. I tried it on a salmon filet with some lemon and balsamic pearls, and it really elevated the dish."

"Every time I use this in my hot Italian sausage recipe, it greatly enhances the taste. I love it enough that I’ll definitely buy it again for future cooking."

"I’m honestly hooked on this stuff. I use it to add a peppery kick to all kinds of dishes—from chili and pasta to eggs and soup. The possibilities are endless, and the flavor is just outstanding."