Gochujang Bulgogi, or Spicy Pork Bulgogi, is a flavorful dish hailing from Korea, known for its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Made with tender marinated pork, this dish features gochujang, a Korean red chili paste that adds a distinctive kick and richness to the meat. Its popularity can be attributed to its delicious flavor, ease of preparation, and the ability to cater to various taste preferences. As the renowned chef Maangchi once stated, The secret to great bulgogi is in the marinade,” underscoring the importance of quality ingredients and technique in crafting this beloved Korean staple. The combination of vibrant flavors and enticing aromas makes Gochujang Bulgogi a favorite at family gatherings, barbecues, and Korean restaurants worldwide.
Gochujang Bulgogi (Spicy Pork Bulgogi)
Gochujang Bulgogi is a beloved Korean dish characterized by its sweet and spicy flavors, typically made with thinly sliced pork marinated in a rich sauce containing gochujang (Korean chili paste). Bulgogi, which means “fire meat,” has roots that trace back to the Korean Goryeo Dynasty over a thousand years ago. Traditionally, it was prepared with beef, but today, variations using different meats have gained popularity, with pork being a favorite for its flavorful and juicy texture.
Preparation
This step-by-step recipe will guide you through making delicious Gochujang Bulgogi at home, perfect for serving with rice or in lettuce wraps.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Thinly sliced pork (shoulder or belly) | 1 pound (450 g) |
| Gochujang (Korean chili paste) | 3 tablespoons |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Honey or sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Ginger (minced) | 1 teaspoon |
| Green onions (chopped) | 2 |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | 2 tablespoons |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons gochujang
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Mix well until all ingredients are fully blended.
- Marinate the Pork: Add the thinly sliced pork to the marinade, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; for best results, marinate for 2 hours or overnight.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Pork: Once the oil is hot, add the marinated pork to the pan in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side without stirring to achieve a nice sear. Then, stir and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the pork is fully cooked and slightly caramelized.
- Add Green Onions: Stir in the chopped green onions towards the end of the cooking process, allowing them to wilt for about a minute.
- Serve: Remove from heat and transfer the Gochujang Bulgogi to a serving plate. Serve hot with steamed rice and your choice of side dishes (banchan).
Enjoy your homemade Gochujang Bulgogia dish that captures the essence of Korean cuisine with its bold flavors and delightful aroma!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gochujang Bulgogi?
Gochujang Bulgogi is a Korean dish made with marinated pork cooked in a spicy gochujang (Korean chili paste) sauce, typically served with rice.
How is Gochujang Bulgogi different from regular bulgogi?
Gochujang Bulgogi uses gochujang for a spicier flavor, while traditional bulgogi often uses a soy sauce-based marinade without heat.
What pork cuts are best for Gochujang Bulgogi?
Tender cuts like pork shoulder or pork belly are ideal for Gochujang Bulgogi due to their flavor and texture.
How do you make the marinade for Gochujang Bulgogi?
The marinade typically includes gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, garlic, and ginger, blended together for a savory kick.
Can Gochujang Bulgogi be made with other meats?
Yes, Gochujang marinade works well with beef, chicken, or tofu, offering a versatile flavor profile.
Is Gochujang Bulgogi spicy?
Yes, it has a moderate to high level of spiciness due to the gochujang used in the marinade.
What sides go well with Gochujang Bulgogi?
Common sides include kimchi, rice, pickled vegetables, or a fresh salad to balance the spiciness.
Can I make Gochujang Bulgogi in advance?
Absolutely, you can marinate the pork ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight for better flavor.
How long do you cook Gochujang Bulgogi?
Cook the marinated pork for about 5-10 minutes on medium heat, until fully cooked and caramelized.
What is the best way to serve Gochujang Bulgogi?
Serve it hot on a plate or in a lettuce wrap with rice and your choice of sides for a delicious meal.
Can Gochujang Bulgogi be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated pork before cooking for up to 3 months, allowing for convenient meal prep.
Is Gochujang Bulgogi healthy?
When made with lean pork and fresh ingredients, Gochujang Bulgogi can be part of a balanced diet, but watch for sodium in the marinade.
Where can I buy Gochujang?
Gochujang can typically be found in Asian grocery stores, some supermarkets, or online retailers.
How do I adjust the spice level in Gochujang Bulgogi?
You can reduce the amount of gochujang or add more sugar to balance the heat to your liking.
What can I use instead of Gochujang?
If you don’t have gochujang, you can substitute with a mix of miso paste and chili powder, although the flavor will differ.
