Korean pork belly, known as “samgyeopsal,” is a beloved dish that showcases rich flavors and versatile cooking methods. In this article, I will share my five favorite Korean pork belly recipes that highlight the unique tastes of this cut of meat. From traditional grilling techniques to modern twists, each recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy this popular ingredient.

The appeal of pork belly lies not only in its flavor but also in its ability to blend with various seasonings and side dishes. This article will guide you through simple yet mouthwatering recipes that can elevate your dining experience. Whether you are new to Korean cuisine or an experienced cook, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.

Table of Contents

1. Spicy Gochujang Pork Belly

a plate with sliced char siu pork, a scoop of white rice, and lettuce leaves. the pork has a glossy, reddish-brown glaze. the rice is round and tightly packed. the lettuce leaves are green and crisp. the plate is white and round. the background is a wooden surface

I love making Spicy Gochujang Pork Belly. This dish combines the rich flavor of pork with the heat of gochujang, a Korean red pepper paste. It’s both spicy and savory, making it a real treat.

To start, I marinate the pork belly in a mixture of gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, and a bit of sugar. This helps to enhance the flavors. The marinating time is simply crucial, so I usually let it sit for at least an hour.

After marinating, I cook the pork belly on a hot grill or in a skillet. The goal is to get a nice crust while keeping the inside tender. The cooking time usually varies, but I keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

I often serve this dish with lettuce wraps and rice. Combining the spicy pork belly with fresh lettuce creates a delicious balance. It’s one of my favorite Korean recipes and always a hit with my family.

2. Soy Garlic Pork Belly

a plate with sliced char siu pork, a scoop of white rice, and bok choy. the pork has a glossy, reddish-brown glaze and is sliced into thick pieces. the rice is round and tightly packed. the bok choy is green and crisp. another plate with the same dish is partially visible in the upper left corner

Soy Garlic Pork Belly is a popular dish that I enjoy making. The combination of soy sauce and garlic creates a rich flavor that enhances the pork’s natural taste.

To prepare this dish, I start with fresh pork belly. I create a marinade using soy sauce, crushed garlic, and a bit of sugar for sweetness. This mixture ensures the pork absorbs all the flavors.

After marinating for a few hours, I cook the pork belly until it’s tender and caramelized. The result is a crispy outer layer with juicy meat inside.

I often serve it with rice and some fresh vegetables on the side. The flavors pair well together, making it a satisfying meal.

This dish not only tastes great, but it also showcases the essence of Korean cuisine, which balances flavors well. If you’re looking for a delicious pork belly recipe, Soy Garlic Pork Belly is definitely worth trying.

3. Sweet and Savory Bulgogi Pork Belly

a white plate with sliced char siu pork, a scoop of white rice, carrots, and spinach. the pork has a glossy, reddish-brown glaze and is sliced into thick pieces. the rice is round and tightly packed. the carrots are orange and julienned. the spinach is green and leafy. the plate is round and white

I love making Sweet and Savory Bulgogi Pork Belly. This dish combines tender pork belly with a flavorful marinade. The blend of soy sauce, sugar, and garlic creates a delicious taste.

To start, I slice the pork belly into thin strips. The marinade soaks into the meat, giving it a rich flavor. I let it sit for at least an hour, but overnight is best.

When I cook, I use a hot grill or pan. This helps to sear the pork belly, bringing out its natural sweetness. I enjoy serving it with rice and fresh vegetables.

The texture of the pork belly is soft and juicy. Paired with the savory sauce, it becomes a favorite in my home. Each bite is satisfying and comforting.

For those who enjoy grilling, this recipe is a great option. It captures the essence of Korean cuisine with its balance of tastes. Sweet and Savory Bulgogi Pork Belly is a dish I often recommend to friends and family. They love it as much as I do.

4. Korean BBQ Pork Belly Wraps

a plate with sliced pork jowl, lettuce leaves, garlic cloves, and yellow bell pepper slices. a small bowl of dark sauce is on the plate. the pork jowl is grilled and sliced, showing grill marks. a small glass of liquid is in the upper right corner. the plate is white

Korean BBQ pork belly wraps, known as samgyeopsal, are a delicious way to enjoy this flavorful cut of meat. I love the experience of grilling pork belly at the table. The sizzling sound and savory smell are hard to resist.

I recommend using thick slices of pork belly. I season them lightly with salt and cook them on a hot grill until crispy. The key is to achieve that perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat.

When ready, I wrap the grilled pork in lettuce leaves. This adds freshness and crunch. I usually include sliced garlic and green peppers for extra flavor.

For a dipping sauce, I enjoy a mix of sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Sometimes, I add gochujang for a spicy kick. The combination of flavors makes each bite satisfying.

These wraps are perfect for gatherings with friends and family. They allow everyone to customize their meal and enjoy a truly interactive dining experience. If you haven’t tried Korean BBQ pork belly wraps yet, I highly recommend it. The blend of grilled pork and fresh vegetables is simply unbeatable.

5. Kimchi Stew with Pork Belly

a bowl of kimchi jjigae on a wooden table. the stew includes tofu, kimchi, and green onions in a red broth. a bowl of white rice is in the background. a light-colored cloth is partially visible on the left. steam is rising from the rice bowl. the table is dark brown

Kimchi stew, or kimchi jjigae, is a classic Korean dish that I enjoy making. The main ingredients are kimchi, pork belly, tofu, and various seasonings.

For me, the pork belly adds a rich flavor and tender texture. It complements the spicy and sour notes of the kimchi. I usually start by sautéing the pork belly until it’s nicely browned.

Next, I add the kimchi and stir it all together. Adding water or broth helps create a flavorful base. I let everything simmer until the ingredients are well combined.

To finish, I include tofu for extra protein and garnish with green onions. This simple process results in a hearty dish that warms me up.

I love serving this stew with rice. It’s perfect for a family meal or a cozy night in. Kimchi jjigae is not only tasty but also a great way to enjoy fermented kimchi.

What Is Korean Pork Belly?

Korean pork belly, also known as “samgyeopsal,” is a beloved cut of meat that plays a vital role in Korean cuisine. It is appreciated for its rich flavor and versatility in cooking. In this section, I will discuss its culinary significance and common cooking techniques.

What Is the Culinary Significance of Korean Pork Belly?

Korean pork belly is more than just a dish; it is a cultural experience. It is often enjoyed in gatherings and celebrations, making it a staple at Korean barbecue restaurants. The cut is characterized by thick layers of fat and meat, providing a juicy and flavorful bite.

In South Korea, pork belly is often paired with various sides, such as grilled vegetables, dipping sauces, and fermented kimchi. This combination enhances its taste and elevates the dining experience. The cut’s ability to absorb flavors from marinades or spices adds to its appeal, making it adaptable to different recipes. I appreciate how pork belly represents the essence of Korean food—balancing rich flavors with fresh ingredients.

What Are Common Cooking Techniques for Korean Pork Belly?

There are several popular cooking techniques for preparing Korean pork belly. The most common is grilling, where strips of pork belly are cooked on a hot grill. This method lets the fat render down, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.

Another method is to stir-fry the pork belly with vegetables, allowing the flavors to meld together. I also find that braising the pork brings out a deeper flavor profile, especially when using spices and aromatics.

Here’s a quick list of methods:

Grilling: Best for crispiness.

Stir-Frying: Great with vegetables and sauces.
Braising: Deep flavors with aromatics.

These techniques not only enhance the taste but also bring out the unique characteristics of Korean pork belly.

What Are the Key Ingredients for an Authentic Korean Pork Belly Flavor?

To create authentic Korean pork belly dishes, it’s essential to focus on the right spices, marinades, and cuts of pork. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building rich flavors that define Korean cuisine.

What Essential Spices and Marinades Are Used for Korean Pork Belly?

For a delicious Korean pork belly, I use a mix of spices that can elevate the dish. Key ingredients include:

Gochugaru: This Korean red pepper flakes provide heat and a vibrant color.

Soy Sauce: Traditional Korean cuisine relies on soy sauce for its umami flavor.
Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty aroma that enhances the overall taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic boosts flavor significantly.

I often create a marinade by combining these ingredients with a bit of sugar to balance the saltiness. For a twist, adding grated pear or apple in the marinade contributes subtle sweetness and tenderizes the meat.

What Are the Recommended Cuts of Pork for Korean Pork Belly?

When selecting pork belly, not all cuts are the same. I prefer these options for the best results:

English Cut: This is the standard cut for pork belly, perfect for grilling or braising.

Flank Cut: A bit leaner, this cut allows for flexibility in preparation, making it great for stir-frying.
St. Louis Style: This specific cut offers a nice balance of meat and fat, yielding juicy flavors.

Using high-quality pork belly from a reputable butcher ensures tenderness and enhances the dish’s authenticity. The right cut of meat is critical for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

5 Best Korean Pork Belly Recipes for Delicious Home Cooking