Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the world of Korean cuisine? Today, we're tackling a classic favorite: spicy pork bulgogi, and we're doing it the Maangchi way! If you're not familiar, Maangchi is basically the queen of Korean cooking online, and her recipes are super authentic and easy to follow. So, grab your aprons, and let's get cooking! This recipe is not only incredibly delicious but also a fantastic way to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. We'll break down each step, offer helpful tips, and make sure you end up with a dish that's bursting with flavor. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a newbie in the kitchen, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to create the perfect spicy pork bulgogi. Get ready for a mouthwatering journey into the heart of Korean flavors, and let's make some magic happen in your kitchen!

What is Spicy Pork Bulgogi?

Spicy pork bulgogi, also known as Jeyuk Bokkeum, is a Korean stir-fried dish made with thin slices of pork marinated in a spicy gochujang-based sauce. Unlike its beef counterpart, bulgogi, which has a sweeter, more savory flavor, spicy pork bulgogi brings the heat! It's the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory, making it incredibly addictive. The combination of tender pork, fiery spices, and fresh vegetables creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. This dish is incredibly versatile; you can serve it with rice, lettuce wraps, or even as a topping for noodles. The vibrant red color and enticing aroma make it a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Whether you're craving a quick weeknight dinner or planning a Korean-themed feast, spicy pork bulgogi is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, get ready to experience the authentic taste of Korea with every bite!

Why Maangchi's Recipe?

Maangchi's recipes are renowned for their authenticity and approachability. She provides clear, step-by-step instructions and helpful tips that make even the most complex Korean dishes accessible to home cooks. Her spicy pork bulgogi recipe is no exception. She emphasizes using high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques to achieve the best flavor. Maangchi's passion for Korean cuisine shines through in every recipe, and her enthusiastic teaching style makes the cooking process enjoyable and rewarding. By following her guidance, you can confidently recreate the delicious flavors of Korea in your own kitchen. Her recipe is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Korea, offering a genuine taste of the country's vibrant food culture. With Maangchi as your culinary guide, you're not just cooking a dish; you're embarking on a flavorful journey that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients You'll Need

Okay, let's gather our ingredients. Here’s what you'll need to make Maangchi's spicy pork bulgogi:

• 1. 5 lbs pork shoulder or butt, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1/4 cup gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice wine (mirin or sake)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Vegetable oil for cooking

Pro-Tip: Getting your pork thinly sliced is key. If you can't find it pre-sliced, partially freeze the pork for about 30 minutes to make it easier to slice thinly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get down to business! Follow these steps carefully, and you'll be enjoying some amazing spicy pork bulgogi in no time.

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, rice wine, sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
2. Marinate the Pork: Add the thinly sliced pork to the bowl with the marinade. Using your hands (wear gloves if you prefer), massage the marinade into the pork, ensuring every piece is coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be!
3. Stir-Fry the Pork: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated pork, spreading it out in a single layer as much as possible. Stir-fry the pork until it's cooked through and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add the Vegetables: Add the thinly sliced onion and chopped green onions to the skillet. Continue to stir-fry until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the sesame oil and sprinkle sesame seeds over the top. Serve hot with rice, lettuce wraps, and your favorite Korean side dishes (banchan).

Tips for the Perfect Spicy Pork Bulgogi

• Quality Ingredients: Using good quality gochujang and gochugaru makes a huge difference in the final flavor. Look for Korean brands at your local Asian market or online.
• Thinly Sliced Pork: As mentioned earlier, thinly sliced pork is crucial for quick and even cooking. If you're slicing it yourself, make sure your knife is sharp, and the pork is partially frozen.
• Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Stir-fry the pork in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can lower the temperature and result in steamed rather than stir-fried pork.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you're sensitive to spice, start with less gochugaru and add more to taste. Remember, you can always add more spice, but you can't take it away!
• Serve Immediately: Spicy pork bulgogi is best served hot and fresh. The flavors are most vibrant when the dish is first cooked.

Serving Suggestions

Spicy pork bulgogi is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are some popular serving suggestions:

• With Rice: Serve it over a bed of steamed rice for a classic Korean meal. The rice soaks up the delicious sauce, making every bite heavenly.
• Lettuce Wraps (Ssam): Wrap the pork in fresh lettuce leaves with a dollop of ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce) and other banchan for a refreshing and interactive meal.
• Noodles: Toss the spicy pork bulgogi with cooked noodles (such as udon or somen) for a flavorful and satisfying noodle dish.
• Tacos: Get creative and use the spicy pork bulgogi as a filling for tacos. Top with kimchi, cilantro, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo for a fusion twist.
• Banchan (Side Dishes): Serve with an array of Korean side dishes such as kimchi, pickled radish, spinach salad, and seasoned bean sprouts for a complete and authentic Korean dining experience.

Banchan Ideas

To truly elevate your spicy pork bulgogi experience, you've gotta have some killer banchan (Korean side dishes) to go with it. Here are a few easy and delicious ideas:

• Kimchi: The quintessential Korean side dish! You can buy it pre-made or try making your own.
• Oi Muchim (Spicy Cucumber Salad): A refreshing and crunchy salad with a spicy kick.
• Kongnamul Muchim (Seasoned Soybean Sprouts): A simple and flavorful side dish that adds a nice textural contrast.
• Sigeumchi Namul (Seasoned Spinach): A healthy and delicious spinach salad with sesame oil and garlic.
• Danmuji (Pickled Radish): A sweet and tangy pickled radish that's perfect for cleansing the palate.

Variations and Substitutions

Want to mix things up a bit? Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:

• Chicken or Tofu: If you're not a fan of pork, you can substitute chicken thighs or firm tofu. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of gochugaru to control the spice level. You can also add a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
• Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add a bit more sugar or honey to the marinade.
• Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari).

Conclusion

So there you have it! Maangchi's spicy pork bulgogi recipe is a guaranteed winner. It's flavorful, relatively easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a great way to explore the vibrant and delicious world of Korean cuisine. Don't be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own. Happy cooking, and enjoy! Seriously, guys, this is going to be your new go-to recipe. The combination of the spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors is just unbeatable. Plus, it's a fantastic way to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. So, get in the kitchen, follow these steps, and get ready to enjoy some seriously delicious spicy pork bulgogi. You won't regret it!