Perfect Korean-Style Boiled Pork Recipe

Perfect Korean-Style Boiled Pork Recipe

With rising dining-out costs, more people are turning to home cooking. Today, I’m sharing a foolproof recipe for Korean-style boiled pork that matches the quality you’d find in restaurants. I’ll reveal the golden ratios and essential techniques passed down from a Korean cuisine expert with 20 years of experience.

Why is Boiled Pork So Popular?

Korean-style boiled pork is one of the most beloved traditional dishes. Rich in protein and collagen, it’s excellent for skin health and particularly popular among new mothers during postpartum recovery. Since it’s boiled rather than fried, it’s also a fantastic choice for health-conscious individuals looking for lower-fat protein options.

Ingredients for Perfect Boiled Pork [Serves 4]

Main Ingredients

• Pork belly or shoulder – 2.2 lbs (1kg)
• Green chili peppers – 2
• Green onions – 2 stalks
• Onion – 1 large
• Garlic – 8 cloves
• Ginger – 1 thumb-sized piece

Seasoning

• Salt – 1 tablespoon
• Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
• Bay leaves – 2
• Whole peppercorns – 5

The Perfect Cooking Time – Essential Guidelines

The most crucial factor in successful boiled pork is the cooking time. Depending on the size and weight of the meat, timing needs to be carefully adjusted. For 2.2 lbs (1kg) of meat, the ideal process is: first boil for 40 minutes, rest for 15 minutes, then second boil for 20 minutes.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preparing the Meat

First, thoroughly wash the pork. Removing all blood is crucial. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes, changing the water occasionally for better results.

2. First Boil

• Fill a large pot with plenty of water and bring to a boil
• Add the cleaned pork along with green onions, onion, garlic, ginger, and bay leaves
• Simmer on medium heat for 40 minutes

3. Resting Period

• Remove the meat and let it rest for 15 minutes
• Keep the broth for the second boiling

4. Second Boil

• Return the meat to the pot and simmer for another 20 minutes
• Use low heat for this stage

5. Finishing

• Remove the meat and let it cool for 10 minutes
• Slice into serving-sized pieces

Golden Ratio Dipping Sauce Recipes

Savory Fish Sauce Blend

• Asian fish sauce – 2 tablespoons
• Minced garlic – 1 tablespoon
• Chopped chili peppers – 1
• Sesame oil – 1 teaspoon
• Toasted sesame seeds – to taste

Soybean Paste Sauce

• Korean soybean paste – 4 tablespoons
• Korean red chili paste – 1 tablespoon
• Minced garlic – 1 tablespoon
• Sesame oil – 1 teaspoon
• Plum extract or honey – 1 teaspoon

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. Choosing the Meat

• For pork belly, look for even fat distribution
• For shoulder cuts, choose pieces with visible muscle grain

2. Boiling Guidelines

• Avoid high heat at the beginning to prevent tough meat
• Skim off foam regularly
• Keep the lid slightly open to release unwanted odors

3. Storage Tips

• Best consumed on the same day
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator
• Consume within 3 days

Recommended Vegetable Pairings

• Lettuce leaves
• Perilla leaves
• Chinese cabbage
• Chives
• Pickled radish
• Cucumber
• Carrots
• Raw onion slices

Nutritional Value

This dish isn’t just delicious – it’s packed with nutrients:

• Protein: approximately 27g per 100g
• Iron: 1.5mg per 100g
• Zinc: 2.4mg per 100g
• Vitamin B1: 0.9mg per 100g
• Rich in collagen

Final Thoughts

Making Korean-style boiled pork at home isn’t as challenging as you might think. Following this recipe will help you create a dish that rivals restaurant quality. While it might take some time initially, you’ll quickly become comfortable with the process.

Why not try making this for your next family gathering or special occasion? A plate of perfectly cooked boiled pork is sure to impress your loved ones and show them your culinary skills.

Give this recipe a try! I hope your kitchen will soon be filled with the wonderful aroma of this classic Korean dish.