Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the most mouthwatering Korean pork dish that will transport you straight to the bustling streets of Seoul! Dae Ji Bulgogi is not just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that combines sweet, savory, and spicy notes in one incredible dish. Whether you're a Korean cuisine enthusiast or a curious foodie looking to expand your culinary horizons, this recipe promises to be your new obsession that will have everyone at the dinner table begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Korean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork shoulder, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 1 green onion, chopped
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Start by preparing the pork shoulder. If not already thinly sliced, place the pork in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to slice thinly. Once firm, slice the pork into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and gochujang. Whisk together until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well blended.
- Add the sliced pork to the marinade and mix well, ensuring all the pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour for more flavor.
- While the pork is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Slice the onion into thin strips and chop the green onion. Set aside.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onion and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they become slightly translucent.
- Next, add the marinated pork to the skillet, spreading it out in an even layer. Let it cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes to achieve a good sear.
- After the pork has seared, stir-fry it for another 5-7 minutes, or until it is cooked through and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the pork is cooked, add the chopped green onion to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the green onions are tender.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for a minute. Serve the Dae Ji Bulgogi hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired, along with steamed rice or lettuce leaves for wrapping.
Tips
- Freezing Hack: Partially freezing the pork for 30 minutes makes slicing ultra-thin a breeze. Thin slices ensure quick, even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
- Marination Magic: Don't rush the marinating process. While 15 minutes works, letting the pork sit for up to an hour allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- High Heat is Key: Use a hot skillet to achieve that perfect caramelization and slightly crispy edges that make bulgogi irresistible.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the pork in batches if needed to ensure each piece gets a nice sear instead of steaming.
- Gochujang Flexibility: If you can't find gochujang, you can substitute with a mix of sriracha and miso paste, though the authentic flavor will be slightly different.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with steamed rice, kimchi, and lettuce leaves for a traditional Korean dining experience. The lettuce leaves allow you to make delicious wraps!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 85mg
