Korean BBQ Pork

Introduction

Korean BBQ Pork bursts with a medley of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, making it one of the most crave-worthy dishes in the world of grilled meats. Its signature caramelized crust and meltingly tender interior elevate it from a simple barbecue to an unforgettable feast. Whether you’re hosting friends or bringing a taste of Korea home, this dish transforms any night into a celebration.

Why Korean BBQ Pork is a Must-Try

The beauty of Korean BBQ Pork lies in its harmony of complex flavors—think soy, garlic, ginger, and a hint of heat from gochujang. A quick marinade infuses the meat with bold umami, while grilling or pan-searing brings incredible char and smokiness. Serve this dish for your next dinner party or enjoy it as a satisfying weeknight meal, and you’ll be fielding recipe requests in no time!

Prepping for the Perfect Korean BBQ Pork

Success with this recipe starts with thinly sliced pork shoulder or pork belly. For perfectly uniform slices and efficient prep, a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper makes quick work of prepping your vegetables for the marinade and banchan (side dishes). Marinating takes as little as 30 minutes, but a few hours in the fridge intensifies the depth of flavor.

Cooking Methods: Grill, Skillet, or Air Fryer

Traditionalists may reach for a cast iron grill pan, but using a COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1 provides a healthier, hands-off approach to crispy, caramelized edges. Slicing and flipping pork is a breeze with a Homaxy 100% Cotton Waffle Weave Kitchen Dish Cloth nearby for quick cleanups, and a ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer ensures your pork is perfectly cooked.

Serving Suggestions: Complete Your BBQ Spread

Serve your Korean BBQ Pork over fluffy white rice with kimchi, or wrap it in fresh lettuce leaves with sliced garlic, chili peppers, and ssamjang (Korean BBQ dipping sauce). A Stanley Quencher ProTour Flip Straw Tumbler filled with a cold beverage rounds out the feast, keeping you refreshed between sizzling bites.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields about 4 generous servings. Each portion typically offers around 400–450 calories, depending on cut and toppings. Packed with protein and flavor, it’s a balanced meal best enjoyed hot off the grill or skillet.

Korean BBQ Pork at Its Best (Recap)

Crispy-edged, mouthwateringly juicy, and loaded with bold Korean flavors, this BBQ pork is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its short marinating time, easy prep, and adaptability to different cooking methods make it a top pick for busy cooks and foodies alike.

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, gochujang, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, green onions, rice wine, and pepper until smooth. For finely chopped veggies, use the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper to save on prep time.
2. Add the sliced pork to the marinade, mixing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
3. For grilling or pan-searing: Preheat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. If using a nonstick option, a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet helps achieve a golden, caramelized sear with minimal oil.
4. Working in batches, cook the pork slices for 2-3 minutes per side until well-browned and cooked through. If using an air fryer, place slices in the COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1 basket in a single layer and cook at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway.
5. Transfer the cooked pork to a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced chilies, if desired.
6. Serve hot with lettuce leaves, ssamjang, and steamed rice. For easy, fuss-free cleanup, serve over a sheet of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes (plus marinating time)