Korean Pork Belly

Name: Korean Pork Belly
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 1 pound pork belly, sliced; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Experience the savory delight of Korean Pork Belly with this delicious recipe that brings together tender, juicy meat and a flavorful marinade. Perfectly grilled or pan-fried, this dish captures the essence of Korean cuisine, offering a mouthwatering balance of sweet, spicy, and umami flavors. Serve with rice and your favorite side dishes for an authentic meal that will impress your family and friends.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2025-12-13T15:15:58.041Z

This recipe for Korean Pork Belly brings together the rich flavors and tender texture that make this dish a favorite in Korean cuisine.

Understanding Korean Cuisine

Korean cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and diverse ingredients. Central to many dishes is the use of fermented elements like kimchi, but other ingredients, such as soy sauce and sesame oil, play crucial roles in flavoring meat. This pork belly recipe highlights these elements by marrying them in a marinade that enhances the rich taste of the pork. The sweet and spicy profile is a signature of Korean cooking, making every bite an explosion of flavor.

Traditionally, Korean pork belly is enjoyed during festivities or gatherings, showcasing the communal aspect of dining in Korean culture. By learning how to prepare this dish at home, you not only expand your culinary repertoire but also bring a piece of Korea's vibrant culture to your table. It's a great way to impress guests and introduce them to the delicious diversity of global cuisine.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Pork Belly

To achieve the best results with Korean pork belly, understanding the cooking techniques is essential. Whether you choose to grill or pan-fry, both methods amplify the savory flavors of the meat. Grilling imparts a smoky taste that complements the marinade, while pan-frying allows for a crispy exterior that encases the juicy center. Make sure to preheat your pan or grill adequately to ensure optimal cooking conditions.

It's also important to consider the thickness of the pork belly slices for consistent cooking. Thinner slices will cook faster, resulting in a crispy texture, while thicker pieces may retain more juiciness. Monitoring cooking times and adjusting based on thickness ensures that your pork belly is tender and flavorful, making it a perfect highlight of your meal.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated

For the Pork Belly

1 pound pork belly, sliced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine the marinade and let the pork belly soak for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger.

Marinate the Pork Belly

Add the pork belly slices to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Pork Belly

Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the marinated pork belly until golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Plate the pork belly and serve with rice and your choice of side dishes.

Enjoy your delicious Korean Pork Belly!

Serving Suggestions

Korean pork belly is best served with a variety of sides that complement its rich flavor. Traditional accompaniments include steamed rice, kimchi, and pickled vegetables, which enhance the meal’s overall taste profile. The acidity from pickled vegetables helps cut through the richness of the pork, creating a balanced dining experience.

For a more modern twist, consider serving your pork belly in lettuce wraps, allowing guests to customize their bites with sauces and toppings. You can also pair this dish with a Korean-style salad for added freshness, or serve it alongside classic Korean side dishes like Japchae (stir-fried glass noodles) or Korean potato salad.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers (though they are unlikely!), storing pork belly properly will ensure that it maintains its flavors. Refrigerate the cooked pork belly in an airtight container for up to three days. For best results, reheat in an oven or on a skillet to crisp the exterior again, avoiding the microwave if possible, as it can make the meat chewy.

If you want to store the uncooked marinated pork belly, it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to deepen and can enhance your dish when it’s finally cooked. Always ensure to double-check for freshness before utilizing leftovers and maintain proper food safety practices.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of meat?

Yes, you can try this marinade with chicken or beef as well.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.