Red pepper paste is a spicy red pepper fermented paste. It adds a sweet, spicy, and salty flavor to Korean dishes. It is used to add flavor, thickness, and color to dishes. It is added to soups, marinade, sauces or side dishes.
When unopened you can store it in your pantry but make sure to refrigerate after opening or store in a very cool dry place AWAY from the stove. (storing in fridge is ideal after opening)
If you make your own pastes at home and see that mold has grown, do not worry. Just scoop the mold off of the top of the paste and throw it away. Your paste should be fine to continue using once the mold is removed.
