Introduction to the Dish
Jeyuk Bokkeum, a beloved Korean dish, features thinly sliced pork marinated in a spicy and savory sauce, then stir-fried to perfection. This dish is celebrated for its bold flavors, combining the heat of Korean chili paste with the richness of pork. Jeyuk Bokkeum is a versatile dish, often enjoyed in both casual and festive settings, and is a staple in Korean BBQ and home cooking.
Ingredients List
- 500g of pork shoulder or pork belly, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
For the Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons of gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of sugar or honey
- 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon of rice wine or mirin
- 1 teaspoon of gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes), optional for extra heat
- Black pepper to taste
Required Cooking Tools
- Mixing bowl
- Frying pan or wok
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Marinate the Pork: In a mixing bowl, combine gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, rice wine, and black pepper. Add the pork slices to the marinade and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably longer for deeper flavor.
- Cook the Pork: Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork and stir-fry until it’s almost cooked through.
- Add Vegetables: Add the sliced onion and carrot to the pan. Continue to stir-fry until the vegetables are tender and the pork is fully cooked.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, add the chopped green onions and give it a final stir. Serve hot.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- You can adjust the level of spiciness by altering the amount of gochujang and gochugaru.
- Additional vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms can be added for more texture and flavor.
- For a less spicy version, reduce the gochujang and replace it with more soy sauce or a bit of Korean pear puree for sweetness.
Nutritional Information Pork is a good source of protein. The dish also contains various nutrients from the vegetables. However, it can be high in calories due to the pork and the sauce ingredients.
Cultural Background and History Jeyuk Bokkeum is a relatively modern dish in Korean cuisine, gaining popularity as gochujang became a common ingredient in households. It’s a dish that reflects the Korean love for spicy flavors and hearty meat dishes.
Serving Suggestions Jeyuk Bokkeum is often served with a bowl of steamed rice and other Korean side dishes (banchan). It’s also great when wrapped in lettuce leaves with a dollop of ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce).
Jeyuk Bokkeum is a flavorful and satisfying dish, perfect for those who enjoy the spicy and rich tastes of Korean cuisine. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit different palates, making it a favorite among many.
