Spicy Pork Bulgogi
Thinly sliced pork marinated in a spicy Korean chili paste-based sauce, then stir-fried with vegetables.
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.
Dooboo
Bulgogi, meaning 'fire meat,' has roots in Korean barbecue dating back to the Goguryeo era (37 BCE – 668 CE), where marinated meats were grilled over charcoal. Spicy variations likely developed later with the increased availability and popularity of gochujang (Korean chili paste) and other chili peppers in Korean cuisine. The specific type of meat used and the marinades varied based on regional availability and culinary preferences.
Spicy Pork Bulgogi is a widely enjoyed and popular dish in Korean cuisine, frequently served at home, in restaurants, and during special occasions. It represents a communal dining experience often shared amongst family and friends. The dish reflects Korean preferences for bold, complex flavors and communal eating.
Social Dining
Bulgogi, including the spicy pork version, is often prepared on a tabletop grill, allowing everyone to participate in the cooking process and enjoy the freshly cooked meat together. This encourages conversation and bonding.
Banchan Accompaniment
Spicy Pork Bulgogi is typically served with an array of banchan (small side dishes) such as kimchi, pickled vegetables, and seasoned spinach, which provide contrasting flavors and textures to complement the main dish.
Everyday Meal & Special Occasions
While enjoyed as a regular meal, it's also frequently featured during celebrations and gatherings, showcasing its versatility and appeal.
Spicy Pork Bulgogi explodes with a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. The primary sensation is heat derived from gochujang and other chili seasonings, balanced by the sweetness of sugar and fruit purees, and grounded by the umami of soy sauce and garlic.
The dominant flavor is the fiery heat from gochujang (Korean chili paste) and gochugaru (Korean chili powder). This spiciness is tempered by the sweetness derived from sugar, honey, or Asian pear. Soy sauce provides a savory, umami backbone, while garlic and ginger add pungent aromatics. Sesame oil contributes a nutty richness, and the pork itself offers a satisfying meaty flavor. The vegetables, such as onions and green onions, add subtle sweetness and crisp textures to complement the pork.
Marinating Time
Marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 2-4 hours, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat. Longer marinating times result in more tender and flavorful bulgogi.
Thinly Sliced Pork
Ensure the pork is thinly sliced (approximately 1/8 inch thick) for quick cooking and optimal marinade absorption. Partially freezing the pork before slicing can make this easier.
Cooking Method
Stir-fry over high heat in a wok or large skillet to achieve a slight char and prevent the pork from steaming. Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Adjusting Spiciness
Adjust the amount of gochujang and gochugaru to control the spiciness level according to your preference.
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