Korean Pork Belly

Name: Korean Pork Belly
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb pork belly, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp sugar; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Green onions, for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Experience the rich and savory flavors of this Korean Pork Belly recipe, featuring perfectly marinated, tender slices that are grilled to a crispy finish. With a delightful combination of garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil, this dish is an instant crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering or family dinner. Serve with steamed rice and fresh vegetables for a complete meal that will impress your guests!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-12T04:06:01.547Z

This Korean Pork Belly recipe brings a delicious twist to a classic dish. Marinated in a savory blend, it promises a burst of flavors in every bite.

Understanding Pork Belly

Pork belly is a beloved cut known for its rich flavor and tender texture. It’s the same cut used to make bacon, but when prepared differently, it offers a unique culinary experience. When cooked correctly, pork belly becomes juicy and succulent with a crispy exterior, making it a versatile ingredient in various dishes across different cuisines.

The key to perfecting pork belly lies in the cooking method. In this Korean recipe, grilling provides a delightful contrast between the crispy edges and tender meat. This method enhances the natural flavors of the pork while allowing the marinade to infuse deeply, creating a dish that is both satisfying and flavorful.

The Marinade Magic

The marinade for this Korean pork belly plays a crucial role in its overall flavor profile. Combining soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, sugar, and black pepper creates a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and a hint of spice. Soy sauce contributes umami richness, while sesame oil adds a nutty depth that complements the pork beautifully.

Allowing the pork belly to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or longer, if possible) enables the flavors to meld and penetrate the meat thoroughly. This process not only enhances taste but also tenderizes the pork, resulting in a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth texture after grilling.

Serving Suggestions

Korean pork belly is best enjoyed when served hot off the grill. Pair it with steamed rice to absorb the savory juices, and complement the meal with fresh, crunchy vegetables like cucumbers or lettuce leaves. These add a refreshing contrast and help balance the richness of the pork.

For a traditional touch, consider serving the dish with Korean side dishes, known as banchan, like kimchi or pickled radishes. These sides enhance the dining experience and provide a delightful variety of flavors and textures to your meal.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting the recipe.

Ingredients for Korean Pork Belly

1 lb pork belly, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp black pepper
Green onions, for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready to use.

Instructions

Follow these instructions carefully to achieve the best results.

Marinate the Pork

In a bowl, combine garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and black pepper. Add the pork belly slices and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Grill the Pork Belly

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated pork belly slices for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until crispy and cooked through.

Serve

Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.

Enjoy your homemade Korean Pork Belly with side dishes like steamed rice and vegetables.

Tips for Grilling Perfection

To achieve perfectly grilled pork belly, it’s important to preheat your grill adequately. A medium-high heat setting is optimal for obtaining a nice sear that will help the pork belly crisp up. Make sure the grill grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking.

Monitor the cooking time carefully; grilling for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side typically yields the best results. However, depending on the thickness of your pork belly slices, you may need to adjust your grilling time slightly. Keep an eye on the pork to ensure it reaches a beautiful golden-brown color.

Storing Leftovers

If you're fortunate enough to have leftovers, Korean pork belly can be preserved for future meals. Allow the cooked pork belly to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to three days.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pork. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet or microwave for quick enjoyment.

Explore Variations

While this recipe focuses on a traditional Korean approach, feel free to experiment with additional flavors in your marinade. Adding ingredients like ginger, chili paste, or even orange zest can elevate the dish and introduce a new layer of complexity.

For a smoky flavor, consider using a charcoal grill or adding wood chips to your grill. This not only enhances the taste of the pork belly but also provides a unique twist to the dish that will impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of pork?

Yes, you can substitute with pork shoulder or pork ribs, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is it necessary to grill the pork belly?

Grilling is recommended for the best texture, but you can also pan-fry it if needed.