Pork Belly (Samgyeopsal)
Thick slices of pork belly, grilled until crispy. A very popular choice at Korean BBQ restaurants.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
The exact origins are debated, but pork consumption in Korea increased significantly after the Korean War due to increased availability and affordability. Grilled meat, including pork, became more accessible and popular during this period of economic recovery and dietary change.
Samgyeopsal is deeply ingrained in Korean social culture, representing communal dining, friendship, and celebration. It is a popular choice for gatherings, where people cook and eat together around a shared grill.
Social Bonding
Samgyeopsal is often enjoyed in groups, fostering a sense of community and shared experience. The act of grilling and sharing food together strengthens relationships.
Celebratory Meal
It is a common choice for special occasions, such as birthdays, promotions, or simply a gathering with friends and family. The abundance and communal aspect make it a festive meal.
Office Culture
Samgyeopsal dinners are a frequent part of Korean office culture, used as a way for colleagues to bond outside of work and relieve stress.
Samgyeopsal offers a harmonious blend of savory, fatty pork, umami from accompanying sauces and side dishes, and freshness from lettuce wraps and kimchi.
The primary flavor is the rich, savory taste of the pork belly itself, enhanced by its high fat content. It is typically seasoned lightly, if at all, allowing the natural flavor of the pork to shine. Ssamjang (a thick, spicy soybean paste) adds a salty, savory, and slightly sweet element, while kimchi provides a spicy, fermented, and sour counterpoint. Garlic adds pungency, and sesame oil contributes a nutty aroma. The lettuce wraps provide a refreshing, clean taste, balancing the richness of the pork.
Grilling Technique
Use kitchen shears to cut the pork belly into bite-sized pieces after grilling for easier consumption. Avoid overcrowding the grill to ensure even cooking and proper browning.
Ssam Customization
Experiment with different combinations of ingredients in your ssam (lettuce wrap). Try adding sliced green chilies, perilla leaves, or other pickled vegetables for added flavor and texture.
Dealing with Grease
Most restaurants provide tilted grills with a grease drain. Utilize this feature to minimize excess grease and prevent the meat from becoming overly greasy.
Proper Ventilation
Samgyeopsal restaurants are usually well-ventilated, but be aware that the grilling process can produce a lot of smoke. Avoid wearing clothes you are particularly fond of to prevent them from absorbing the smell.
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