Best Korean Pork Belly Recipe
Korean Pork Belly, known as Samgyeopsal, is one of the most beloved dishes in Korean cuisine. It is juicy, flavorful and incredibly satisfying, especially when served with fresh vegetables, dipping sauces and warm rice. This recipe delivers tender, caramelized pork belly with classic Korean flavors, perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings or a Korean BBQ–style meal at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe uses simple ingredients yet gives you restaurant level flavor. The marinade enhances the natural richness of pork belly while keeping it tender. It cooks quickly, pairs beautifully with many sides and can be grilled, pan fried or air fried. It’s versatile enough for meal prep, special dinners and everyday cravings.
Ingredients
• Pork belly slices
• Soy sauce
• Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• Honey or brown sugar
• Sesame oil
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Rice vinegar
• Black pepper
• Sesame seeds
• Green onions for garnish
Instructions
Start by slicing the pork belly if not already cut. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, gochujang, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, vinegar and black pepper. Coat the pork belly thoroughly and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium high heat. Cook the pork belly slices for a few minutes on each side until caramelized, slightly crispy and golden. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
You Must Know
Do not overcrowd the pan because pork belly releases fat and needs space to crisp properly. If cooking indoors, open a window or keep ventilation strong because the marinade can char slightly while caramelizing. For extra crispiness, cook the pork a little longer after the marinade reduces.
Storage Tips
Store leftover pork belly in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving as it softens the texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
• Replace honey with maple syrup or brown sugar
• Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce
• Swap gochujang with sriracha for a milder version
• Use lemon juice instead of rice vinegar if needed
Serving Suggestions
Serve with steamed rice, kimchi, lettuce leaves, sliced garlic, ssamjang dip and pickled radishes. Wrap the pork in lettuce with a little rice and sauce for a classic Korean BBQ experience. It also pairs well with cucumber salad, seaweed soup or grilled vegetables.
Cultural and Historical Context
Samgyeopsal has been a Korean staple since the mid-20th century and is enjoyed socially, often cooked at the table and eaten with friends or family. It represents the communal spirit of Korean dining and is particularly popular with grilled banchan and cold drinks. Today, it’s one of the most iconic dishes of Korean BBQ culture.
Seasonal Adaptations
In winter, serve with warm soups like doenjang jjigae to balance the richness. In summer, pair with cold noodles or fresh vegetable sides. During festive gatherings, add mushrooms or onions to the grill for extra flavor.
Success Stories
Many home cooks love how easy and flavorful this recipe is. It gives a true Korean BBQ taste without needing a fancy grill. Beginners appreciate its simplicity, and experienced cooks enjoy how well it adapts to different marinades and sides.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Marinate the pork belly and freeze it raw in freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and cook as usual. You can also freeze cooked slices and reheat them in an air fryer for quick meals.
Pro Tips
• Marinate longer for richer flavor
• Use a cast iron skillet for best caramelization
• Pat the pork dry before cooking for better searing
• Cook on medium high heat to crisp without burning
Chef’s Special Tips
Add a tablespoon of pear or apple puree to the marinade for authentic Korean sweetness and tenderness. A small splash of mirin adds depth. Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil right before serving for aroma.
Conclusion
This Korean Pork Belly recipe brings bold flavors, perfect texture and true Korean BBQ joy right to your kitchen. Try it for your next dinner and enjoy the satisfying balance of savory, sweet and spicy. If you love Korean recipes, explore more dishes to build a full Korean meal at home.
FAQs
Can I make this without gochujang?
Yes. Use sriracha or chili garlic sauce for a milder alternative.
Can I grill the pork belly outdoors?
Absolutely. Outdoor grilling gives an even better smoky flavor.
How thin should the pork belly be?
Slices about ¼ inch thick cook best and caramelize nicely.
Can I use air fryer instead of pan frying?
Yes. Air fry at 400°F for 8 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Why is my pork belly not crisp?
If the pan is overcrowded or heat is too low, it won’t crisp. Cook in batches for best results.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild heat depending on how much gochujang you use. Adjust to your preference.