Get ready for a flavor explosion! This Spicy Korean Pork Belly recipe delivers tender, succulent pork belly infused with the vibrant, fiery flavors of Korea. Imagine crispy, caramelized edges giving way to melt-in-your-mouth meat, all coated in a rich, addictive gochujang-based sauce. This isn't your grandma's pork roast; it's a culinary adventure bursting with umami, sweetness, and a satisfying kick of spice that will leave you craving more. Forget complicated techniques – this recipe is surprisingly easy to master, even for beginner cooks.
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy. We'll guide you through each step, from expertly preparing the pork belly to creating the unforgettable gochujang sauce. Ready to embark on this delicious journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create a truly unforgettable Spicy Korean Pork Belly feast!
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Green onions: 2
- Garlic cloves: 2
- Yellow onion: 1/4
- Carrots: 1 cup, julienned
- Pork belly: 1 pound, thinly sliced
- Soy sauce: 1 spoon
- Agave nectar: 1/2 tablespoon
- Sesame oil: 1/2 tablespoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Hot pepper paste: 2-3 tablespoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pork Belly and Marinade
- Slice pork belly into 1-inch wide pieces.
- Combine soy sauce, agave nectar, sesame oil, salt, pepper, and hot pepper paste. Mix well.
- Marinate the pork belly for 5-10 minutes.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Cook the Pork
- Thinly slice carrots and yellow onion.
- Heat oil in a pan. Add chopped garlic and cook until golden brown.
- Add marinated pork belly to the pan and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, until edges are slightly browned.
Step 3. Add Vegetables and Finish Cooking
- Add carrots and onions, stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until pork is crispy.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve immediately.
Read more: Gochujang Korean BBQ Rice Bowl: 15-Minute Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of hot pepper paste to your preferred spice level.
- Ensure the pork belly doesn't stick to the pan while cooking.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pork cut instead of pork belly?
While pork belly is ideal for its rich flavor and fat content, you can substitute with pork shoulder or even a thick-cut pork loin. Just keep in mind that leaner cuts will require slightly less cooking time and may not be as tender.
2. How can I make this recipe less spicy?
Reduce the amount of gochujang paste or gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) to your preferred level of spice. You can also add a touch more honey or sugar to balance the heat.
This Spicy Korean Pork Belly recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of crispy skin, tender meat, and flavorful sauce will leave you wanting seconds (and maybe thirds!). So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delicious rewards of this easy-to-make Korean masterpiece.