Spicy & Sweet Gochujang Grilled Deodeok (Korean Mountain Root)
Spicy & Sweet Gochujang Grilled Deodeok (Korean Mountain Root)
Mouthwatering Spicy and Sweet Gochujang Grilled Deodeok Recipe
Introducing Deodeok, often called the ‘meat of the mountains’ for its rich nutritional value! When grilled with a spicy and sweet gochujang (Korean chili paste) marinade, it evokes the hearty flavor of spicy pork bulgogi. Brushing it with seasoned oil (yujang) helps the marinade penetrate deeper, resulting in a Deodeok dish that rivals any meat preparation. This recipe offers a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and spicy notes with a satisfying chewy texture. Perfect as a side dish for rice or a delicious appetizer with drinks!
Main Ingredients- 200g fresh Deodeok (Korean mountain root)
- Pinch of salt (for removing bitterness)
- Pinch of finely ground pine nuts (for garnish)
- Pinch of finely chopped green onions (for garnish)
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil (for seasoned oil)
- 1 tsp soy sauce (for seasoned oil)
Spicy & Sweet Gochujang Marinade- 2 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 Tbsp corn syrup or oligosaccharide (for gloss and sweetness)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp minced green onion
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 2 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 Tbsp corn syrup or oligosaccharide (for gloss and sweetness)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp minced green onion
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, thoroughly peel the Deodeok and rinse it under cold running water several times to remove any dirt or impurities. To eliminate any bitterness, soak the Deodeok in lightly salted water for about 30 minutes. This step ensures a milder, more pleasant flavor.
Step 2
Now, let’s prepare the star of the dish: the spicy and sweet gochujang marinade. In a bowl, combine 2 Tbsp gochujang, 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, 2 Tbsp corn syrup (or oligosaccharide), 1 Tbsp minced garlic, 1 Tbsp minced green onion, and 1 Tbsp sesame oil. Mix everything well until you have a smooth, delicious marinade.
Step 3
If your Deodeok pieces are thick, make a lengthwise cut to halve them. Then, wrap the Deodeok in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Gently pound the wrapped Deodeok with the back of a cleaver or a rolling pin until it’s flattened to a thinner, more manageable size. This helps the marinade penetrate better and cooks more evenly.
Step 4
Let’s make the seasoned oil (yujang) to enhance the flavor and tenderness of the Deodeok. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 Tbsp sesame oil and 1 tsp soy sauce. Brush this seasoned oil evenly over both sides of the flattened Deodeok.
Step 5
After applying the seasoned oil, let the Deodeok rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the oil to fully absorb into the root, making it more tender and adding a nutty richness.
Step 6
Heat a lightly oiled pan over medium heat. Place the Deodeok in the pan and grill it, flipping occasionally, until some of its moisture has evaporated and the surface is lightly golden. Avoid high heat to prevent burning.
Step 7
Now it’s time to generously coat the grilled Deodeok with the prepared spicy and sweet gochujang marinade. Using a brush will make this process easier and more even. It’s important to apply a thin, even layer of marinade to prevent it from burning.
Step 8
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Grill the Deodeok, flipping it frequently, until the marinade is cooked through, slightly caramelized, and coats the Deodeok beautifully. Cooking slowly over low heat allows the flavors of the marinade to develop fully.
Step 9
Finally, garnish the finished gochujang grilled Deodeok with a sprinkle of finely ground pine nuts and some fresh chopped green onions. Your delicious and visually appealing Deodeok Gochujang Gui is ready to be enjoyed!
