Jeyuk Bokkeum: A Spicy and Flavorful Korean Pork Belly Stir-Fry

Jeyuk Bokkeum is a popular Korean dish that is loved for its bold and spicy flavors. This dish features thinly sliced pork belly that is stir-fried with a flavorful sauce made with gochujang, a Korean chili paste, along with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sugar.

The dish is typically served with rice and a variety of side dishes, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. Join me as we explore the history and ingredients of Jeyuk Bokkeum, and discover how to make this delicious and spicy Korean pork belly stir-fry at home to impress your family and friends with its authentic Korean flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pork belly, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 green onions, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for cooking
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the garlic, ginger, gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
2. Add the sliced pork belly to the marinade and stir to coat. Let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
3. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a splash of vegetable oil and swirl to coat the pan.
4. Add the sliced onion and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until slightly softened.
5. Add the marinated pork belly to the pan and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and slightly caramelized.
6. Add the sliced green onions to the pan and stir-fry for another minute until the green onions areslightly wilted.
7. Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the Jeyuk Bokkeum to a serving dish.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds and additional sliced green onions, if desired.
9. Serve hot with cooked rice and your favorite side dishes.

Note: You can adjust the spiciness of the Jeyuk Bokkeum by adding more or less gochujang, or by adding red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers to the dish.

Tips:

1. Use thinly sliced pork belly: This cut of pork works best for Jeyuk Bokkeum because it is tender and has a good balance of fat and meat.
2. Marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes: This allows the pork to absorb the flavors of the marinade and become more tender.
3. Adjust the spiciness to your taste: If you prefer a milder dish, use less gochujang or omit it altogether. If you prefer a spicier dish, add more gochujang or red pepper flakes.
4. Use a high smoke point oil for cooking: Vegetable oil or canola oil works well for stir-frying the pork and vegetables.
5. Cook the pork in batches: Overcrowding the pan can cause the pork to steam instead of searing, so it’s best to cook the pork in batches.
6. Don’t overcook the pork: Pork belly can become tough if overcooked, so be sure to cook it just until it’s cooked through and slightly caramelized.
7. Serve with rice and side dishes: Jeyuk Bokkeum is typically served with rice and a variety of side dishes, such as kimchi, pickled vegetables, or sautéed spinach.

What are some common side dishes that go well with Jeyuk Bokkeum?

1. Kimchi: Spicy and tangy fermented cabbage is a classic Korean side dish that is perfect for pairing with Jeyuk Bokkeum.
2. Pickled Vegetables: Pickled vegetables such as cucumber, radish, or carrot add a refreshing and crunchy element to the meal.
3. Sauteed Spinach: A simple side dish of sautéed spinach with garlic and sesame oil is a great way to add some greens to the meal.
4. Steamed Rice: Jeyuk Bokkeum is typically served with steamed rice, which can be used to soak up the delicious sauce.
5. Japchae: This Korean noodle dish made with sweet potato noodles, vegetables, and beef is a popular side dish that pairs well with Jeyuk Bokkeum.
6. Korean Pancakes: Savory Korean pancakes made with scallions, seafood, or kimchi are a great way to add some variety and texture to the meal.

By pairing Jeyuk Bokkeum with the right side dishes, you can create a well-balanced and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends with its authentic Korean flavors.

What are some other Korean noodle dishes that pair well with Jeyuk Bokkeum?

1. Japchae: This dish features sweet potato noodles stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and a sweet and savory sauce made with soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Japchae is a popular Korean noodle dish that is often served as a side dish or a main course.
2. Naengmyeon: This dish features cold buckwheat noodles served in a tangy broth made with vinegar, mustard, and sugar. Naengmyeon is a refreshing and cooling dish that is perfect for hot summer days.
3. Kalguksu: This dish features hand-cut wheat noodles served in a savory broth made with chicken, beef, or seafood. Kalguksu is a comforting and filling noodle soup that is popular in Korean cuisine.
4. Mul Naengmyeon: This is a variation of Naengmyeon that features cold buckwheat noodles served in a cold beef broth with slices of beef, pear, and cucumber. Mul Naengmyeon is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer.
5. Bibim Guksu: This dish features cold buckwheat noodles tossed with vegetables and a spicy sauce made with gochujang, vinegar, and sugar. Bibim Guksu is a flavorful and spicy noodle dish that is popular as a summer meal.

By pairing Jeyuk Bokkeum with the right noodle dishes, you can create a well-balanced and satisfying Korean meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Jeyuk Bokkeum is a popular Korean dish that features thinly sliced pork belly stir-fried with onions, green onions, and a spicy gochujang-based sauce. This dish is loved for its bold and complex flavors and is typically served with rice and a variety of side dishes. By following the recipe and tips outlined above, you can create your own Jeyuk Bokkeum at home and enjoy the authentic Korean flavors of this beloved dish.

Pair it with your favorite noodle dishes and side dishes to create a complete and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends. With its spicy and savory flavors, Jeyuk Bokkeum is a perfect dish for anyone who loves Korean cuisine or is looking to try something new.