Main Course · Dinner · Asian ·

Caramelized Korean Pork Belly with Spicy Kimchi Glaze

Indulge in the rich flavors of Korean cuisine with this caramelized pork belly dish topped with a vibrant spicy kimchi glaze.

4.5(897 reviews)
·By Ethan Brooks·
Caramelized Korean Pork Belly with Spicy Kimchi Glaze — Main Course served and photographed from above
Prep
50 min
Cook
2 h 30 min
Difficulty
Intermediate
Serves
4

Preparation

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.

Marinating the Pork Belly

  1. 1

    Dry the pork

    Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels.

    Tip: Ensure the pork belly is completely dry before cooking for maximum crispiness.

  2. 2

    Mix the marinade

    In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.

  3. 3

    Marinate

    Rub the mixture evenly over the pork belly and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Preparing the Spicy Kimchi Glaze

  1. 1

    Combine ingredients

    In a small saucepan, combine the chopped kimchi, gochujang, rice vinegar, and honey.

  2. 2

    Cook down

    Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.

    Tip: Do not overcook the glaze or it will become too thick to spread.

  3. 3

    Finish glaze

    Stir in sesame seeds and remove from heat.

    Tip: Let the glaze cool slightly before applying to enhance the thickness and flavor.

How to Make Caramelized Korean Pork Belly with Spicy Kimchi Glaze

Total time: 3 h 20 min · Yields 4 servings

  1. 1

    Sauteing

    Remove pork belly from the marinade and pat dry again.

  2. 2

    Caramelizing

    Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add pork belly, and sear until golden brown on all sides, about 8 minutes per side.

  3. 3

    Glazing

    Brush the spicy kimchi glaze generously over the pork and continue to cook until caramelized.

Chef's Tips

    Further reading

    Frequently asked questions

    How long can I store leftovers?

    Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

    Can I make this ahead?

    Yes, you can marinate the pork belly and prepare the glaze a day in advance.

    What can I substitute for gochujang?

    You can use Sriracha or another chili paste as a substitute, though the taste might differ slightly.

    Is there a way to make this dish less spicy?

    Reduce the amount of gochujang and opt for a mild kimchi to decrease the spiciness.

    Can this dish be made without sesame oil?

    Yes, you can substitute with another oil like vegetable or canola, but it may alter the traditional taste.

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