Korean Pork Belly

Experience the mouthwatering delight of Korean Pork Belly with this easy recipe that captures the perfect balance of tender meat and crispy skin. Marinated in a blend of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil, this dish is a crowd-pleaser perfect for grilling or oven-roasting. Serve with rice, fresh vegetables, and your favorite dipping sauces for a truly authentic and satisfying meal.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2025-12-13T14:11:51.751Z

Discover the rich flavors of Korean cuisine with this delectable pork belly recipe. The combination of marinades and cooking techniques brings out the best flavors in the meat.

The Perfect Marinade

The key to an unforgettable Korean Pork Belly lies in the marinade. A harmonious blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, brown sugar, and black pepper creates a rich flavor profile that enhances the natural taste of the pork. Allowing the meat to absorb these flavors over time results in a tender, succulent dish that's bursting with umami. For the best results, let your pork belly marinate overnight. This simple step can make a world of difference in maximizing flavor and tenderness.

Experimenting with the marinade can lead to exciting variations tailored to your taste preferences. For instance, you can add a touch of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) for a hint of heat or a splash of rice wine for extra depth. Don’t hesitate to make it your own—personalizing the marinade is an enjoyable part of the cooking process and can take your Korean Pork Belly to new heights!

Cooking Techniques

When it comes to cooking pork belly, achieving the perfect balance between crispy skin and tender meat is paramount. Whether you choose to grill or roast it in the oven, preheating properly is essential for achieving that delicious crispy exterior. Cooking the pork belly skin side up allows the fat to render while the skin crisps, creating an alluring texture that complements the rich meat beneath. For those grilling, ensure you maintain an even heat to prevent flare-ups and burnt edges.

Monitoring the cooking time is equally important. Ideally, aim for 25 minutes of skin-side cooking to achieve that coveted crispiness, followed by about an hour of cooking on the meat side. Using a meat thermometer can help ensure your pork belly reaches a safe internal temperature while remaining juicy and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Korean Pork Belly can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, making it a versatile choice for any meal. Serving it alongside steamed rice and colorful fresh vegetables not only adds nutritional value but also creates a visually appealing plate. Classic accompaniments like kimchi and pickled radishes provide the perfect contrast to the rich, fatty pork, enhancing the dining experience with tangy and refreshing flavors.

Dipping sauces also deserve special mention. Traditional options like ssamjang, a savory and spicy dipping sauce made from fermented soybean paste, or a simple mixture of soy sauce and vinegar can elevate the meal. Encourage guests to customize their plates with dips, adding an interactive element to your meal that everyone will love. Enjoying the pork belly wrapped in lettuce leaves with rice and toppings is a delightful way to savor each bite.

Ingredients

Marinade

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon black pepper

Pork Belly

2 pounds pork belly, skin on

To Serve

Cooked rice
Fresh vegetables
Dipping sauces of choice

Make sure to marinate the pork belly for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, brown sugar, and black pepper.

Marinate the Pork

Rub the marinade all over the pork belly and let it sit for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Cook the Pork Belly

Preheat the grill or oven. Cook the pork belly skin side up until crispy, about 25 minutes, then flip and cook until the meat is tender, about 1 hour.

Serve

Slice the pork belly and serve with rice, fresh vegetables, and dipping sauces.

Enjoy your Korean Pork Belly with your favorite side dishes!

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Korean Pork Belly can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To preserve its texture and flavor, slice the pork belly and place it in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating them gently is crucial; consider using a skillet over low heat to maintain the crispy exterior while warming the meat through.

For longer storage, you might consider freezing the cooked pork belly. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-friendly bag, eliminating as much air as possible. This way, you can enjoy the delightful taste of your Korean Pork Belly even weeks later!

Pairing Drinks

Pairing drinks with Korean Pork Belly can enhance your dining experience. A crisp, cold beer, such as a light lager or a refreshing pilsner, beautifully complements the meal, balancing the richness of the pork while offering a palate-cleansing effect. If you prefer wine, a light-bodied red such as Pinot Noir can harmonize well with the savory notes of the pork.

For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving a traditional Korean drink like Sikhye, a sweet rice beverage, which adds a unique touch to your meal. Its sweetness can mellow the savory and spicy flavors, providing a well-rounded dining experience that everyone can enjoy.

Exploring Korean Cuisine

Enjoying Korean Pork Belly is a wonderful introduction to the world of Korean cuisine, which is rich with diverse flavors and dishes. From spicy kimchi to savory bulgogi, there are countless varieties to explore. Don’t hesitate to experiment in your kitchen with different Korean recipes, as many dishes can complement each other and bring an authentic experience home.

Joining a local Korean cooking class can also deepen your understanding of these culinary traditions. Engaging with local chefs and other food enthusiasts can inspire creativity in the kitchen, allowing you to bring a little piece of Korea to your dining table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of pork?

For the best results, use pork belly. Other cuts won't provide the same flavor and texture.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.