Youn’s Kitchen Style Spicy & Sweet Gochujang Pork Bulgogi
Youn’s Kitchen Style Gochujang Pork Bulgogi: A Recipe to Try at Home
Let’s recreate the delicious Gochujang Pork Bulgogi inspired by the popular Korean show ‘Youn’s Kitchen’. This recipe offers a perfect balance of spicy and sweet flavors, making it an irresistible dish.
Main Ingredients
- 500g Pork Shoulder or Pork Belly (sliced thinly for bulgogi is ideal)
Spicy & Sweet Marinade
- 1 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, fine grind for color and flavor)
- 1 Tbsp Maesilcheong (Plum extract or syrup) (adds sweetness and tenderizes meat)
- 3 Tbsp Apple Juice (for natural sweetness and gloss)
- 4 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Mirin or Cooking Wine (removes gamey odor and enhances flavor)
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1/2 tsp Ginger Powder (or a little grated fresh ginger)
- Pinch of Black Pepper
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil (for finishing aroma)
- 1 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, fine grind for color and flavor)
- 1 Tbsp Maesilcheong (Plum extract or syrup) (adds sweetness and tenderizes meat)
- 3 Tbsp Apple Juice (for natural sweetness and gloss)
- 4 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Mirin or Cooking Wine (removes gamey odor and enhances flavor)
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1/2 tsp Ginger Powder (or a little grated fresh ginger)
- Pinch of Black Pepper
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil (for finishing aroma)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
The secret to delicious Gochujang Pork Bulgogi lies in the marinade! In a large bowl, combine gochujang, gochugaru, maesilcheong, apple juice, soy sauce, mirin, minced garlic, ginger powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined and smooth. Add the 500g of thinly sliced pork and gently massage the marinade into the meat, ensuring every piece is coated.
Step 2
Instead of cooking immediately, let the marinated pork rest in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the meat to become more tender, resulting in a much more delicious dish. If you have time, marinating for 2-3 hours or even overnight will develop an even deeper flavor.
Step 3
Now it’s time to cook! Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Spread the marinated pork in a single layer. You don’t need to add extra oil, as the pork will release its own fat. Be mindful to prevent sticking.
Step 4
Cook the pork over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent the marinade from scorching. Stir-fry for about 10-15 minutes until the pork is mostly cooked through.
Step 5
When the pork is about 90% cooked and no longer pink, turn the heat up to high. Stir-fry quickly to evaporate any excess moisture, creating a slightly caramelized and intensely flavored finish. This high-heat searing locks in moisture while creating a delightful texture. Finally, drizzle in 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and give it a final toss. Your delicious Youn’s Kitchen Style Gochujang Pork Bulgogi is ready to be enjoyed!
