Jaeyuk Bokkeum, or spicy stir-fried pork, is a fiery Korean dish that explodes with flavor and texture. This intensely savory and slightly sweet stir-fry features tender pork belly, caramelized gochujang (Korean chili paste), and a symphony of aromatic vegetables. The vibrant red color is as captivating as the taste, promising a culinary adventure that will leave you wanting more. It’s a perfect centerpiece for a dinner party or a satisfyingly spicy weeknight meal. The addictive combination of sweet, salty, and spicy elements makes it a crowd-pleaser, and its relatively simple preparation belies its impressive results.
Beyond its deliciousness, Jaeyuk Bokkeum offers a fun, interactive dining experience. The slightly charred edges of the pork add a delightful smoky note, and the glistening sauce coats every morsel, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. Ready to embark on this culinary journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide and create this unforgettable spicy stir-fried pork together!
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Bowl
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- Onion: 1/2 large
- Scallions
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Ginger
- Pork
- Gochujang: 2 tbsp
- Brown Sugar
- Black Pepper
- Soy Sauce
- Rice Wine
- Gochugaru (Korean Chili Flakes): optional
- Sesame Oil
- Cooking Oil: 1 tsp
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Sauce
- Thinly slice half a large onion.
- Chop the white parts of scallions (or use green onions).
- Finely mince two cloves of garlic.
- Mince ginger.
![Thinly slice half a large onion. [36.48]](https://img.koreanfusionbbq.com/yt/1039956811610161154/37.92/shot.jpg?width=700)
![Chop the white parts of scallions (or use green onions). [43.68]](https://img.koreanfusionbbq.com/yt/1039956811610161154/51.056/shot.jpg?width=700)
![Mince ginger. [92.479]](https://img.koreanfusionbbq.com/yt/1039956811610161154/94.1592/shot.jpg?width=700)
- gochujang, minced ginger and garlic, brown sugar, black pepper, soy sauce, rice wine, optional gochugaru, and sesame oil.
- Set aside the sauce for 10 minutes.
- Cut the pork into bite-sized pieces and pat dry with paper towels.
![Combine sauce ingredients in a bowl: gochujang, minced ginger and garlic, brown sugar, black pepper, soy sauce, rice wine, optional gochugaru, and sesame oil. [100.88]](https://img.koreanfusionbbq.com/yt/1039956811610161154/108.88/shot.jpg?width=700)
![Cut the pork into bite-sized pieces and pat dry with paper towels. [159.84, 173.44]](https://img.koreanfusionbbq.com/yt/1039956811610161154/165.296/shot.jpg?width=700)
Step 2. Cook the Pork
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 teaspoon of oil.
- Add the pork to the pan and cook until browned and crispy on both sides. Remove excess oil with paper towels if needed.
![Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 teaspoon of oil. [187.12]](https://img.koreanfusionbbq.com/yt/1039956811610161154/189.04/shot.jpg?width=700)
![Add the pork to the pan and cook until browned and crispy on both sides. Remove excess oil with paper towels if needed. [196.72]](https://img.koreanfusionbbq.com/yt/1039956811610161154/204.72/shot.jpg?width=700)
Step 3. Stir-fry and Braise
- Add the sliced onions to the pan and stir-fry until desired tenderness.
- Reduce heat, add about two-thirds of the sauce, and toss to coat. Braise for about three minutes.
- Add more sauce if needed.
- Stir and cook until the meat absorbs the sauce.
![Add the sliced onions to the pan and stir-fry until desired tenderness. [246.08]](https://img.koreanfusionbbq.com/yt/1039956811610161154/252.8478/shot.jpg?width=700)
![Reduce heat, add about two-thirds of the sauce, and toss to coat. Braise for about three minutes. [279.919]](https://img.koreanfusionbbq.com/yt/1039956811610161154/284.4472/shot.jpg?width=700)
![Add more sauce if needed. [302.56]](https://img.koreanfusionbbq.com/yt/1039956811610161154/304.6558/shot.jpg?width=700)
![Stir and cook until the meat absorbs the sauce. [313.039]](https://img.koreanfusionbbq.com/yt/1039956811610161154/315.7432/shot.jpg?width=700)
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Sprinkle with chopped green onions, mix, and turn off the heat.
- Serve.
![Sprinkle with chopped green onions, mix, and turn off the heat. [326.56]](https://img.koreanfusionbbq.com/yt/1039956811610161154/328.272/shot.jpg?width=700)
Read more: Bibimbap Recipe: Delicious Korean Mixed Rice & Vegetables
Tips
- Pat the pork dry to achieve a crispy texture.
- Start with making the sauce, as it tastes better after resting.
- Control the spiciness by adjusting the amount of gochugaru.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of pork?
While pork belly is traditional, you can substitute with pork shoulder or even thinly sliced pork loin. Just adjust cooking time accordingly; leaner cuts will cook faster.
2. What can I do if my gochujang is too spicy?
Add a touch more sugar or honey to balance the heat. You can also add a splash of rice vinegar or mirin to mellow the spiciness.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over medium heat, adding a little water if needed to prevent sticking.
With its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture, this Jaeyuk Bokkeum recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. From its simple ingredients to its surprisingly quick cooking time, it’s a dish that’s both impressive and achievable. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!