No, Gochugaru (Korean chili powder) and American chili powder are not the same.1 They differ significantly in their ingredients, flavor profiles, and textures. Here's a breakdown:Gochugaru (Korean Chili Powder):
Ingredients:

Made solely from dried Korean chili peppers.
Often, it is made from sun-dried Korean red chili peppers.2

Flavor:

Has a complex flavor with spicy, sweet, and slightly smoky notes.3
Typically less fiery than many other chili powders.

Texture:

Can vary from fine powder to coarse flakes.4
Often has a vibrant red color.5

Usage:

Essential in Korean cuisine, particularly in kimchi, stews, and various side dishes.6

American Chili Powder:
Ingredients:

A blend of ground chili peppers and other spices, such as cumin, oregano, and garlic powder.7

Flavor:

A more general, balanced chili flavor.
The flavor profile can vary depending on the specific blend.

Texture:

Usually a fine powder.

Usage:

Commonly used in Tex-Mex and American dishes, such as chili con carne.8

Key Differences:
Gochugaru is a single-ingredient product, while American chili powder is a spice blend.9
Gochugaru has a distinct sweet and smoky flavor, whereas American chili powder has a more general chili flavor.
Gochugaru has a wider range of textures from fine powder to flakes, and American chili powder is typically a fine powder.
In summary, while both are chili powders, they are distinct products with different culinary uses.