Are you ready to spice up your meals with the bold flavors of Korea? Look no further! Korean cuisine is renowned for its pungent and aromatic seasonings, and pork is a staple protein in many traditional dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering spicy Korean pork recipes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. From classic bulgogi to slow-cooked shoulder, we’ve got it all covered.
In the following pages, you’ll discover the secrets behind creating tender and flavorful Korean-style pork dishes, using a range of spices, sauces, and cooking techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary newbie, these recipes are sure to inspire your inner chef and provide endless options for delicious meals.
Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi
A classic Korean dish gets a bold twist with the addition of spicy gochujang, crispy garlic, and savory soy sauce. This recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to spice up their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or butt, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper.
2. Add the sliced pork to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove pork from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook pork for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
5. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Add minced garlic and cook until crispy, about 2 minutes.
6. Serve pork with crispy garlic on top and garnish with green onions.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Korean Pork Belly BBQ (Samgyeopsal)
Experience the sweet and savory flavors of Korea with this classic pork belly BBQ recipe, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together chili flakes, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and black pepper.
2. Add the pork belly slices to the marinade and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the pork belly from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the pork belly for 5-7 minutes per side, or until caramelized and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with kimchi, rice, and your favorite Korean side dishes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Braised Korean Pork Ribs (Galbi Jjim)
This classic Korean dish is a staple of comfort food, with fall-off-the-bone tender pork ribs simmered in a rich and flavorful soy-based broth. With its bold flavors and velvety texture, Galbi Jjim is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Add the pork ribs to the marinade, coating evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Remove the ribs from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Brown the ribs on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Add the beef broth, water, and browned onions to the pot. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 1 hour, then remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Korean Pork Stir-Fry with Gochujang
A spicy and savory stir-fry that combines the rich flavors of Korean chili paste, gochujang, with tender pork and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tsp gochujang
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sugar
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the pan; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
5. Return pork to the pan; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until coated with the sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Korean Pork Dumplings (Mandu)
This recipe brings together the comforting flavors of Korean pork and dumpling wrappers, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup chopped green onion
– 1/4 cup grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped green onion, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
2. Add the soy sauce and sesame oil, and mix until just combined.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place 1-2 teaspoons of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
5. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together, pressing gently to seal.
6. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
Cooking Time:
– Steam the dumplings for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
– Alternatively, pan-fry them in a little oil for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Spicy Pork Stew (Kimchi Jjigae with Pork)
This spicy Korean stew is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender pork, kimchi, and vegetables in a rich and savory broth. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the kimchi, beef broth, black pepper, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pork is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Korean Pork and Tofu Soup (Sundubu Jjigae)
This hearty Korean soup combines tender pork, soft tofu, and a rich vegetable broth, making it a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly or shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves dried Korean chili flakes (gochugaru), crushed or 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pork, tofu, vegetable broth, Gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, onion, and chili flakes.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the pork is tender.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Korean Pork Skewers
Discover the bold flavors of Korea with this easy-to-make grilled pork skewer recipe, perfect for a quick dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Gochujang, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes.
2. Add the pork cubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated pork onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush both sides of the skewers with vegetable oil.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until pork is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Pork Bone Soup (Gamjatang)
This hearty soup is a staple of Korean comfort food, made with pork bones, vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you can enjoy this nourishing meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork bones (you can use leftover bones from a roast or buy them at an Asian market)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the pork bones and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the roasted pork bones, carrots, celery, water, soy sauce, and chili flakes to the pot.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour 30 minutes or overnight.
6. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including roasting time)
Korean Pork and Rice Bowl (Donkatsu)
A classic Korean comfort food, Donkatsu is a flavorful pork cutlet dish served over a bed of steaming hot rice. This recipe is easy to make and packed with savory goodness.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, and cornstarch.
2. Dip each pork chop in the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the coated pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
4. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add remaining 1/2 cup of vegetable oil.
5. Add garlic, soy sauce, and sugar to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Serve the cooked pork chops over a bed of hot rice, spooning some of the savory sauce over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Korean Pork Noodles (Jjajangmyeon with Pork)
A spicy and savory twist on traditional Korean noodles, this recipe combines rich pork flavors with a bold jjajang sauce and springy noodle texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or ground pork
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup jjajang sauce (or homemade version, see note)
– 8 oz Korean-style noodles (naengmyeon or ramyeon)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pork shoulder or ground pork according to package instructions.
2. In a large pan, combine sliced onion and minced garlic; cook until caramelized.
3. Add Gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add cooked pork, jjajang sauce, and noodles; stir-fry until combined.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until noodles are well coated with the sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Pork and Vegetable Pancakes (Jeon)
Experience the flavorful and crispy Korean-style pancakes with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup finely chopped pork (e.g., ground pork or cooked and crumbled pork belly)
– 1/2 cup diced vegetables (e.g., zucchini, carrots, green onions)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds and soy sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Gradually add water to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Add chopped pork and diced vegetables to the batter; stir well.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
5. Using a ladle, scoop about 1/4 cup of the batter into the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown; flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
7. Serve warm with sesame seeds and soy sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)
Korean Pork and Kimchi Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Korean pork and spicy kimchi with a savory bowl of rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup diced Korean-style pork (such as bulgogi or galbi), cooked and seasoned
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked pork and kimchi, stirring to combine.
5. Add the rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, until the rice is well coated with the flavors.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. If desired, push the rice mixture aside and add a small amount of oil to the center of the pan. Crack in the egg and scramble it until cooked through. Mix the egg into the rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow-Cooked Korean Pork Shoulder
Slow-Cooked Korean Pork Shoulder Recipe
This slow-cooked pork shoulder recipe is a classic Korean dish that’s perfect for a cold winter night. The tender and flavorful meat is infused with the savory flavors of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, brown sugar, black pepper, and chili flakes.
3. Add the pork shoulder to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Place the marinated pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
5. Cook for 8-10 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and salt to taste before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Korean Pork and Glass Noodle Stir-Fry (Japchae)
This recipe is a classic Korean dish that combines the savory flavor of pork with the chewy texture of glass noodles, all wrapped up in a flavorful stir-fry. Japchae is a staple in Korean cuisine and is often served as a side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound pork, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups glass noodles (dangmyeon)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the glass noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Remove the pork from the pan and set aside.
5. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
6. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
7. Add the cooked glass noodles, soy sauce, and Gochujang to the pan. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes.
8. Return the pork to the pan and stir-fry everything together.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Pork and Potato Stew (Doenjang Jjigae)
Korean Pork and Potato Stew (Doenjang Jjigae) is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich flavors of pork, potatoes, and doenjang (Korean fermented soybean paste). This stew is perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly or shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
– 2 tablespoons doenjang
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 4 cups pork broth or water
– Salt to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add the pork pieces. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the potatoes, garlic, doenjang, Gochujang, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the cooked pork back into the pot along with the pork broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Korean Pork and Scallion Pancakes (Pajeon)
A classic Korean street food, Pajeon is a savory pancake filled with crispy pork and sweet scallions. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/2 pound cooked pork, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
2. Add eggs and water to the bowl. Mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
4. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the pan and spread evenly.
5. Top with diced pork, scallions, soy sauce, and Gochujang.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until edges start to curl and pancake is crispy.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until bottom is golden brown.
8. Repeat with remaining batter and filling.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Pork and Radish Soup (Mu Guk)
A hearty and comforting Korean soup that warms the soul, Mu Guk is a staple dish made with tender pork, crunchy radishes, and a rich vegetable broth. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly or shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium radishes, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the garlic and ginger for 1 minute.
4. Add the radishes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until slightly tender.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Return the pork to the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is tender.
6. Season with soy sauce to taste. Garnish with green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the bold flavors of Korea with these 18 deliciously tender pork recipes. From classic dishes like Bulgogi and Samgyeopsal to spicy stews and noodle dishes, there’s something for every palate. Try your hand at making Korean Pork Belly BBQ, Braised Korean Pork Ribs, or Spicy Pork Stew with Kimchi Jjigae. Or, go for some comfort food with Korean Pork and Rice Bowl or Slow-Cooked Korean Pork Shoulder. With a range of spices and ingredients, these recipes will transport you to the heart of Seoul.