The Joy of Cooking
Sweet and Savory Pork Bulgogi is one of my favorite dishes to make when I want something quick and delicious. This recipe brings together tender slices of pork belly with a perfect mix of sweet and smoky flavors. As I slice the pork, I can already imagine how the marinade will soak into the meat, making it so flavorful and juicy. Sweet and Savory Pork Bulgogi isn’t just a meal; it’s a moment where the whole family gathers around the table, enjoying each other’s company over a comforting dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
The Perfect Marinade
As I prepare the marinade, I love the smell of garlic and onions mingling with soy sauce and sesame oil. It’s a simple blend that packs a punch! After mixing everything in a bowl, I let the pork sit for a while to absorb all those fantastic flavors. I sometimes like to marinate it overnight for an even deeper taste, but even a quick 15 minutes does wonders. While the pork rests, I chop up some green onions and prepare my trusty nonstick skillet. The anticipation builds as I get ready to cook Sweet and Savory Pork Bulgogi to perfection.
Cooking to Perfection
When the time comes to cook, the sizzle of the pork in the hot skillet fills my kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. I watch as the edges turn golden brown, and the marinade caramelizes into a delicious sauce. It takes only about 10 minutes to cook, but those minutes feel like an eternity as I imagine the first bite. The best part about this dish is how it’s all done in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. As I transfer the bulgogi to a serving dish, I can’t resist sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top for that extra touch.
Serving with Love
Finally, as I serve Sweet and Savory Pork Bulgogi with a side of fluffy steamed rice, my family gathers around the table, smiles on their faces. The colors of the dish pop with the vibrant greens and rich brown hues, making it a feast for the eyes as well. Each bite is a delightful mix of sweet and savory, and it never fails to impress. Whether it’s a simple family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish brings joy and warmth to our table. I can’t wait to share this experience with others, knowing how easy it is to create such a flavorful meal!
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Sweet and Savory Pork Bulgogi
- Marination Time: While 15 minutes is sufficient, allowing the pork to marinate for several hours or overnight will intensify the flavors and tenderness.
- Cutting Technique: For even cooking, ensure that the pork belly is cut into uniform strips. A sharp chef’s knife will make slicing easier and more precise.
- Cooking Temperature: Preheat your nonstick skillet adequately before adding the pork. A hot pan will help achieve a beautiful caramelization and prevent sticking.
- Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar content to suit your taste. For a sweeter bulgogi, increase the sugar slightly, or add more mirin.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Consider adding vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms during the cooking process for added nutrition and texture.
- Storage Tips: Leftover bulgogi can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the pork.
- Serving Variations: Serve the bulgogi with a side of kimchi, pickled radishes, or a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Sweet and Savory Pork Bulgogi
4
servings15
minutes10
minutes344
kcal15
minutes40
minutesDiscover the irresistible flavors of Sweet and Savory Pork Bulgogi! This delightful Korean dish combines tender pork belly with a harmonious blend of sweet and smoky notes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s budget-friendly and surpasses takeout in taste. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe promises a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Get ready to impress with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor!
Ingredients
- Protein Section
½ pound pork belly thinly sliced into strips
- Marinade Mixture
1 tablespoon regular soy sauce
½ tablespoon white granulated sugar
1 teaspoon mirin
⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Vegetables
½ cup julienned onions
1 stalk green onion cut into 1-inch pieces
2 cloves garlic finely minced
- Garnish
¼ teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Alternative Ingredients:
Pork Belly: Substitute with pork shoulder for a leaner option.
Regular Soy Sauce: Use coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative.
White Granulated Sugar: Replace with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
Mirin: Substitute with dry sherry or a mixture of rice vinegar and sugar.
Sesame Oil: Can be omitted or replaced with olive oil for a different flavor profile.
Directions
- Prepare the Pork: Begin by slicing the pork belly into 2.5 to 3-inch long strips. Transfer these slices into a large mixing bowl, ensuring they are evenly distributed for optimal marination.
- Combine Marinade Ingredients: In the same bowl, add the soy sauce, white sugar, mirin, and black pepper. Incorporate the julienned onions, chopped green onions, and minced garlic. Mix thoroughly to ensure the pork is well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors. For enhanced depth, you can marinate it overnight in the refrigerator.
- Cook the Pork: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated pork along with all the marinade. Cook the pork belly on both sides until it loses its pink color and most of the liquid has evaporated, leaving behind a rich sauce. For a more tender texture, cook for about 6-7 minutes. If you prefer crispier edges with a browned finish, extend the cooking time to 8-9 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked to your desired texture, remove the pork from the skillet and transfer it to a serving dish. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top for added flavor and a touch of elegance. Serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes. Optional: Add a side of kimchi for an authentic Korean experience.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- mixing bowls
- Nonstick Pan
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 344kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Potassium: 350mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Vitamin A: 10IU
- Vitamin C: 5mg
- Calcium: 30mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQs- Sweet and Savory Pork Bulgogi
Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, you can substitute pork belly with pork shoulder or loin for a leaner option. Just be aware that the cooking time may vary slightly.
What can I substitute for mirin?
If you don’t have mirin, you can use a mixture of dry sherry and sugar, or a combination of rice vinegar and a bit of sugar to mimic its sweetness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute regular soy sauce with coconut aminos, which has a similar flavor profile without gluten.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! To add heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the marinade or during cooking.
How should I serve bulgogi?
Sweet and Savory Pork Bulgogi is traditionally served with steamed rice, but you can also enjoy it in lettuce wraps, with pickled vegetables, or in a bowl with fresh veggies for a lighter meal.
