Recipe: Korean BBQ Spicy Pork Bulgogi Lettuce Wraps with Kimchi and Sesame Seeds
Introduction
Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors and unique combinations. One popular dish that showcases the essence of Korean cooking is Spicy Pork Bulgogi Lettuce Wraps. This recipe combines tender marinated pork, spicy seasonings, and a refreshing crunch from lettuce, all topped with tangy kimchi and nutty sesame seeds. Follow this simple recipe to recreate this delicious and healthy Korean BBQ dish at home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork belly or pork shoulder, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red pepper paste)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup kimchi, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Lettuce leaves, for serving
Marinating the Pork
Step 1: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, gochujang, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix well to create a marinade.
Step 2: Add the thinly sliced pork to the marinade and toss until all the meat is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Cooking the Spicy Pork Bulgogi
Step 1: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Remove the pork from the marinade, allowing any excess sauce to drip off.
Step 3: Cook the pork in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side or until it is cooked through and slightly caramelized.
Step 4: Transfer the cooked pork to a plate and repeat the process with the remaining pork slices.
Assembling the Lettuce Wraps
Step 1: Wash and dry lettuce leaves, separating them carefully to create cups.
Step 2: Place a spoonful of the cooked spicy pork bulgogi in the center of each lettuce cup.
Step 3: Top each lettuce wrap with a generous amount of chopped kimchi.
Step 4: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the wraps for added flavor and texture.
Serving and Enjoying
This Korean BBQ Spicy Pork Bulgogi Lettuce Wraps with Kimchi and Sesame Seeds recipe is best enjoyed as a communal dish. Serve the lettuce wraps on a platter, allowing everyone to assemble their own wraps according to their preferences. The crisp lettuce, tender and spicy pork, tangy kimchi, and nutty sesame seeds create a harmonious combination of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. These wraps can be served as an appetizer, a light lunch, or as part of a larger Korean feast.
Conclusion
With this recipe, you can bring the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine into your own kitchen. The Spicy Pork Bulgogi Lettuce Wraps with Kimchi and Sesame Seeds offer a delightful balance of heat, tanginess, and freshness. Whether you are a fan of Korean food or looking to explore new flavors, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more.