Spicy Gochujang Pork Belly: An Easy Homemade Recipe
Spicy Gochujang Pork Belly: An Easy Homemade Recipe
Make delicious and spicy Gochujang Pork Belly easily at home!
The rich pork belly infused with a sweet and spicy Gochujang sauce is incredibly addictive and pairs perfectly with rice! Even if it’s not a special occasion, when you’re craving something a little different or your appetite is low, this Gochujang Pork Belly recipe will help you create a fantastic meal effortlessly. The process is surprisingly simple, making it a fail-proof recipe even for beginner cooks.
Basic Ingredients- Thick-cut pork belly
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, adjust to taste)
- Sugar (adjust sweetness)
- Soy sauce
- Minced garlic
- Mirin (or cooking sake)
- Black pepper
- Sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Before you start cooking, score the pork belly with a knife. This allows the delicious marinade to penetrate deeper into the meat, enhancing the flavor. Making several shallow cuts all over the surface will help the sauce absorb better, resulting in a richer taste. This step is optional but highly recommended for a deeper flavor!
Step 2
In a mixing bowl, combine the gochujang, sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and mirin first. Stir them together until you have a smooth paste base. It’s important to mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3
Add the prepared pork belly to the marinade base and mix well with your hands, massaging the sauce into the meat. Ensure the pork belly is evenly coated. Finally, sprinkle with black pepper for added aroma.
Step 4
Now, add the gochugaru and sesame oil, and mix again thoroughly. The gochugaru will give the pork belly a beautiful color, and the sesame oil will add a nutty fragrance. Make sure to mix everything until the pork belly is completely covered in the marinade.
Step 5
It’s best to let the marinated pork belly rest in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days. This marination period allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become more tender, resulting in a much more delicious dish. If you’re short on time, at least 30 minutes of refrigeration is recommended.
Step 6
Once marinated, heat a frying pan over medium-high heat. Place the pork belly in the pan and cook until nicely browned. If you have any leftover onions, feel free to slice and cook them alongside the pork for extra flavor. If you’re worried about the meat burning or the sauce becoming too dry, you can add a little water and cook it like a stew, then increase the heat towards the end to evaporate the liquid. This will result in a moist and delicious Gochujang Pork Belly. Enjoy your meal!
