Spicy-Sweet Pork Neck Bulgogi with Gochujang Sauce
Spicy-Sweet Pork Neck Bulgogi Made with Tender Pork Neck
Create a crowd-pleasing, spicy-sweet Gochujang (Korean chili paste) marinated bulgogi using tender pork neck. When wrapped in lettuce with soft tofu, the dish is perfectly balanced – not too salty, with the tofu’s creaminess harmonizing beautifully with the meat. This recipe is a fantastic side dish for any meal or a special occasion centerpiece.
Main Ingredients- Pork Neck 500g
- Onion 1/2
- Scallions 3-4 stalks
- Minced Garlic 1 Tbsp
- Bell Pepper 1/2 (use different colors for visual appeal)
- Chinese Chives a handful (can substitute with regular chives or perilla leaves if unavailable)
Gochujang Marinade- Gochujang (Korean chili paste) 3 Tbsp
- Soy Sauce 2 Tbsp
- Sugar 1.5 Tbsp (adjust sweetness to taste)
- Mirin (cooking wine) 1 Tbsp
- Cheongju or Soju 1 Tbsp
- Lemon Juice 1 Tbsp (tenderizes meat and removes odor)
- Corn Syrup or Oligosaccharide 1 Tbsp (for gloss and added sweetness)
- Sesame Oil 1 Tbsp
- Black Pepper a pinch
- Minced Ginger 1/2 tsp (optional, helps remove odor)
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste) 3 Tbsp
- Soy Sauce 2 Tbsp
- Sugar 1.5 Tbsp (adjust sweetness to taste)
- Mirin (cooking wine) 1 Tbsp
- Cheongju or Soju 1 Tbsp
- Lemon Juice 1 Tbsp (tenderizes meat and removes odor)
- Corn Syrup or Oligosaccharide 1 Tbsp (for gloss and added sweetness)
- Sesame Oil 1 Tbsp
- Black Pepper a pinch
- Minced Ginger 1/2 tsp (optional, helps remove odor)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, gently pat the pork neck dry with paper towels to remove excess blood. If any pieces are too thick, slice them in half horizontally. Cut the pork into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2
In a bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients: Gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, mirin, soju, lemon juice, corn syrup, sesame oil, black pepper, minced garlic, and minced ginger (if using). Mix thoroughly until well combined. Making the marinade ahead of time allows the flavors to meld better.
Step 3
Prepare the vegetables. Slice the onion into thin strips. Cut the bell pepper into similar-sized strips. Chop the scallions into 4-5cm lengths. Trim the tough ends of the Chinese chives and cut them into 4-5cm lengths.
Step 4
Take about half of the prepared Gochujang marinade and add it to the pork neck. Mix well with your hands, ensuring each piece of pork is coated. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes for enhanced flavor.
Step 5
Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork and stir-fry until the surface is browned. As the marinade begins to thicken, gradually add the remaining marinade, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and burning. Continue cooking until the pork is almost cooked through.
Step 6
When the pork is nearly done, add the sliced onion and bell pepper to the pan. Stir-fry together until the vegetables are slightly softened but still retain some crispness. This adds a delightful texture.
Step 7
Finally, add the chopped scallions and Chinese chives. Stir-fry quickly for another minute until fragrant. (If you plan to serve with tofu, pan-fry tofu slices until golden brown separately.)
Step 8
Serve the delicious bulgogi on fresh lettuce or perilla leaves. Wrap it up with the cooked pork and any optional additions like pan-fried tofu for a tender, flavorful bite that’s perfectly balanced and not too salty. Enjoy your meal!
