Savory Soy-Glazed Pork Bulgogi
The Perfect Companion for Ssam밥: Flavorful Soy-Glazed Pork Bulgogi & Pork Belly Stir-fry Recipe
While spicy Jeyuk Bokkeum is a classic, why not try a delicious soy-glazed pork bulgogi today? This recipe offers a delightful sweet and savory flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with fresh ssam (lettuce wraps). Tender pork slices marinated in a rich soy sauce mixture create a truly satisfying meal, perfect for any occasion.
Main Ingredients- Pork shoulder/leg 300g (thinly sliced for bulgogi)
- Green onion 1/3 stalk
- Onion 1/3 medium
- Kiwi 1/2 (ripe)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by preparing 300g of pork shoulder or leg. Thinly sliced pork is ideal for bulgogi as it absorbs marinade well and cooks quickly.
Step 2
Prepare your vegetables. Thinly slice the green onion (about 1/3 stalk) diagonally. Slice the onion (about 1/3 medium) into thin strips. Peel and finely mince the kiwi (1/2 ripe kiwi). The kiwi acts as a natural tenderizer, making the pork extra succulent. If you have chives, chop them into 2-3cm lengths to add an aromatic touch later in the cooking process.
Step 3
Now, let’s make the flavorful soy glaze for your pork bulgogi! In a small bowl, combine the minced kiwi, 5 tablespoons of soy sauce, 0.5 tablespoon of minced garlic, 0.5 tablespoon of sesame oil, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 4
Pour the prepared soy glaze over the pork slices. Gently toss the pork with your hands to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the marinade. Be careful not to overwork the meat since the kiwi will help tenderize it.
Step 5
For the best flavor, let the marinated pork rest. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the marinade to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in a richer taste. If time permits, marinating for an hour is recommended.
Step 6
Heat a wok or large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of cooking oil. Add the sliced green onions and stir-fry briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds to a minute. This infuses the oil with a sweet aroma.
Step 7
Once the oil is hot and fragrant, add the marinated pork. Spread the pork slices out in a single layer to prevent them from clumping together. Stir-fry over medium-high heat initially to sear the meat and lock in its juices.
Step 8
As the pork cooks and starts to clump, use a spatula or chopsticks to break it apart and cut it into bite-sized pieces as you continue to stir-fry. Since the pork is thinly sliced, it will cook very quickly.
Step 9
When the pork is almost fully cooked, add the sliced onion and the prepared chives (if using). Continue to stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes, just until the onions become translucent and the chives wilt slightly. Avoid overcooking the chives to maintain their fresh crunch.
Step 10
Finally, add 3 tablespoons of water and stir-fry over high heat for a final minute. This step helps to create a slightly saucy consistency and prevents the glaze from burning. Your delicious soy-glazed pork bulgogi is ready!
Step 11
Sprinkle a pinch of sesame seeds over the finished bulgogi for garnish. This savory soy-glazed pork is absolutely wonderful when served with fresh ssam vegetables, rice, and your favorite condiments. Enjoy it as a hearty wrap!
Step 12
Voila! Serving this flavorful bulgogi over warm rice and wrapping it in crisp lettuce leaves was pure delight! Try this easy and delicious soy-glazed pork bulgogi recipe for your next meal!
