Quick & Easy Cabbage Stir-fry with Samgyeopsal

Craving a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal? Look no further than this incredibly simple Samgyeopsal Cabbage Stir-fry! This recipe perfectly blends the savory richness of thinly sliced pork belly (samgyeopsal) with the crisp sweetness of cabbage, all in a matter of minutes. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend lunch. The combination of textures and flavors is surprisingly addictive, creating a harmonious balance that will leave you wanting more. It's a perfect example of how delicious and easy Korean cuisine can be.

This Samgyeopsal Cabbage Stir-fry is incredibly versatile, easily adaptable to your preferred spice level and available ingredients. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you'll find this recipe approachable and rewarding. Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions below!

Tools Needed

  • Deep pan
  • Kitchen towel

Ingredients

  • Cabbage: 250g
  • Samgyeopsal (pork belly): 300g
  • Onion: 120g
  • Green onions: 50g
  • Garlic: 20g
  • Chili peppers: 1-2
  • Sugar: 1 tsp
  • Soy sauce: 1 tbsp + 1 tsp
  • Oyster sauce: 1.5 tbsp
  • MSG: a pinch
  • Smoky flavor oil: a pinch
  • Pepper: 0.5 tsp
  • Ginger: a pinch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prep and Cook the Samgyeopsal

  • Slice cabbage (diagonally if using large leaves), onion (not too thinly), green onions, chili peppers, and garlic.
  • Heat a deep pan and stir-fry the samgyeopsal until the blood is gone and the red color disappears. Remove excess oil with a kitchen towel if needed.
Prepare the ingredients: Slice cabbage (diagonally if using large leaves), onion (not too thinly), green onions, chili peppers, and garlic. Heat a deep pan and stir-fry the samgyeopsal until the blood is gone and the red color disappears. Remove excess oil with a kitchen towel if needed.
Prep and Cook the Samgyeopsal

Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Season

  • Add green onions, chili peppers, and some garlic and ginger to the remaining oil in the pan to add flavor. Add sugar and soy sauce.
  • Add the stir-fried samgyeopsal back to the pan. Lightly press a spoonful of Chinese soy sauce to add seasoning.
Add green onions, chili peppers, and some garlic and ginger to the remaining oil in the pan to add flavor. Add sugar and soy sauce.Add the stir-fried samgyeopsal back to the pan. Lightly press a spoonful of Chinese soy sauce to add seasoning.
Sauté Aromatics and Season

Step 3. Stir-fry Vegetables

  • Add the sliced onions and stir-fry together.
  • Add the cabbage and stir-fry until wilted.
Add the sliced onions and stir-fry together.Add the cabbage and stir-fry until wilted.
Stir-fry Vegetables

Step 4. Finish and Serve

  • Add oyster sauce, sliced red pepper, MSG, smoky flavor oil, and pepper. Mix well.
Add oyster sauce, sliced red pepper, MSG, smoky flavor oil, and pepper. Mix well.
Finish and Serve

Read more: Crispy Spicy Honey Garlic Korean Chicken Recipe

Tips

  • You can use leftover cabbage or large cabbage leaves.
  • Chopping your own garlic results in a better flavor than using pre-minced garlic.
  • Even if you don't like spicy food, adding one or two chili peppers enhances the stir-fry's flavor.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pork instead of Samgyeopsal?

Yes! You can substitute with pork belly, shoulder, or even thinly sliced pork loin. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut.

2. What if I don't have Gochujang? Can I still make this?

While Gochujang adds a fantastic depth of flavor, you can omit it or substitute with a similar amount of soy sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and a touch of brown sugar for sweetness.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.


This Quick & Easy Cabbage Stir-fry with Samgyeopsal is a testament to how simple, delicious meals can be. From its quick prep time to its satisfying flavors, it's a recipe you'll want to keep on hand for busy weeknights and impromptu gatherings. Enjoy this flavorful and versatile dish, and don't hesitate to experiment with different seasonings and additions to make it your own!