Mouthwatering Grilled Pork Neck with Doenjang Marinade (Maekjeok-gui)
Mastering Maekjeok-gui: A Delicious Grilled Pork Neck Recipe
Create a delicious meat side dish by making Maekjeok-gui using tender pork neck. This recipe offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors, perfect for any meal.
Main Ingredients- Pork neck 800g
Maekjeok-gui Special Sauce- Doenjang (Korean soybean paste) 2 Tbsp
- Soju 2 Tbsp
- Minced garlic 1 Tbsp
- Onion 1/2 (finely minced)
- Apple 1/2 (finely minced)
- Honey 2 Tbsp
- Maesilcheong (Korean plum syrup) 1 Tbsp
- Mirin (cooking wine) 1 Tbsp
- Ginger powder 1/2 tsp
- Fish sauce (anchovy or similar) 1 Tbsp
- Black pepper a pinch
- Water 3 Tbsp
- Doenjang (Korean soybean paste) 2 Tbsp
- Soju 2 Tbsp
- Minced garlic 1 Tbsp
- Onion 1/2 (finely minced)
- Apple 1/2 (finely minced)
- Honey 2 Tbsp
- Maesilcheong (Korean plum syrup) 1 Tbsp
- Mirin (cooking wine) 1 Tbsp
- Ginger powder 1/2 tsp
- Fish sauce (anchovy or similar) 1 Tbsp
- Black pepper a pinch
- Water 3 Tbsp
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by preparing the pork neck. Gently pat the surface of the pork slices with paper towels to remove any excess moisture or blood. This step is crucial for a cleaner flavor and better texture when grilling.
Step 2
Next, let’s prepare the flavorful Maekjeok-gui sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the doenjang, soju, minced garlic, finely minced onion and apple, honey, maesilcheong, mirin, ginger powder, fish sauce, black pepper, and water. Whisk everything together until well combined and smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
Step 3
Place the prepared pork neck slices into the bowl with the doenjang sauce. Gently toss and massage the pork to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.
Step 4
For enhanced flavor and tenderness, it’s best to let the marinated pork rest and mature. Transfer the marinated pork and any excess marinade into an airtight container or a zip-top bag. Refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours. For an even richer taste, you can marinate it for 3-4 hours or even overnight.
Step 5
Now it’s time to grill! Heat a lightly oiled pan over medium heat. Place the marinated pork neck slices onto the hot pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cooking over medium-low heat will help the pork cook through evenly and remain tender.
Step 6
Once the pork pieces begin to brown on one side, flip them using tongs or a spatula. Continue to cook, turning occasionally, until both sides are beautifully golden brown and the pork is cooked through. Avoid overcooking to maintain juiciness.
Step 7
Once perfectly grilled, slice the Maekjeok-gui into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a serving plate. Serve with fresh lettuce wraps, a side of seasoned vegetables, or pickled radish for a complete and delightful meal. Any leftover marinade can be reduced in a pan and served as a dipping sauce.
