Maekjeok (Korean Doenjang Marinated Pork)

When you think of Korean barbecue, the first thing that probably comes to your mind will be pork belly or bulgogi (Korean BBQ Beef). But there’s so much more to explore!

Today, with Doenjang (Korean soybean paste), let’s make Maekjeok, which is one of the most popular and traditional Korean barbecues. Don’t be intimidated by the word “traditional” because, as always, with me, it will be simple and delicious. Alright, let’s get started!

MAEKJEOK (2-3 servings)

Ingredients:

• 1.1 lb (500g) pork belly (or pork shoulder, pork loin, etc.)
• Handful of Yeongyang chives (or garlic chives, green onions, lettuce, cucumber), about 3 oz (90g) in total
• 1 mild red chili pepper (optional), for color
• 1 tbsp neutral-tasting oil
• 2-3 cups hot cooked rice, about 1 cup (210g) for each serving
• Soft-Boiled Eggs (optional), to serve
• Generous pinch of toasted sesame seeds, to garnish

Marinade:

• 2.5 tbsp Korean soybean paste (doenjang)
• 1/2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 3 tbsp mirin
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp light corn syrup
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Salad Dressing:

• 1 tbsp Korean chili pepper flakes (gochugaru)
• 1.5 tbsp white vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1/2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 1/2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp fish sauce

Instructions:

MARINATE PORK

1. Score the pork belly on both sides. Cut it into bite-sized pieces.

2. In a mixing bowl, mix together the Korean soybean paste, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, mirin, minced garlic, corn syrup, sesame oil, and black pepper to taste.

3. Add the pork belly to the mixing bowl. Gently massage it. Cover and marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes or overnight.

MAKE CHIVE SALAD

1. Take a big handful of chives and cut them into 2.5 inches (5cm) long. Remove the seeds from the chili pepper (if using) and cut it into strips.

2. Combine all the dressing ingredients in a small container and mix well. Pour it over the chives and toss together.

COOK MARINATED PORK

1. In a large pan, add a little bit of oil and coat the bottom of the pan with paper towels. Turn on the heat to medium.

2. Once it gets nice and hot, place the pork belly. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes. (It can burn easily, so please keep an eye on this and try to flip them every few seconds.)

ASSEMBLE

1. To serve, divide the rice into serving bowls. Add a generous amount of maekjeok. Optionally, hit it with a blowtorch. 

2. Add some chive salad and Soft-Boiled Eggs (if using). Finish with sesame seeds. Enjoy!

WATCH FULL VIDEO

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:

• Doenjang Jjigae (Soybean Paste Stew)
• 5-Minute Bulgogi (Korean BBQ Beef)
• Doenjang Kalguksu (Soybean Paste Noodle Soup)