Spicy Korean Pork Stir Fry
The marinade for this stir fry is an authentic Korean marinade for Spicy Korean BBQ Pork. It's so jammy and loaded with flavour, it's brilliant for using as a stir fry. I made this with pork but it goes great with beef and chicken too. Marinating time: 30 minutes recommended to overnight, but even no marinating is still delicious as the sauce flavour is so strong.
The marinade for this stir fry is an authentic Korean marinade for Spicy Korean BBQ Pork. It's so jammy and loaded with flavour, it's brilliant for using as a stir fry. I made this with pork but it goes great with beef and chicken too. Marinating time: 30 minutes recommended to overnight, but even no marinating is still delicious as the sauce flavour is so strong.
- rice
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 lb / 500g boneless pork shoulder ((excess fat trim
- 1 small pear ( grated (1/2 cup) (or nashi pear or apple) (note 2))
- 1/2 medium onion ( grated (1/4 cup) (brown, white or yellow))
- 1/2 tsp fresh ginger ( minced or finely chopped)
- 1 clove ( crushed)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce ((all purpose or light soy sauce))
- 3 tbsp gochujang ((korean hot pepper paste) or see note
- 1 garlic ( minced)
- 1 onion ( halved and sliced (brown, white or yellow))
- 1 stalk ( sliced)
- Carbohydrate 88.148142505784 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 17.8580505273894 g
- Fiber 1.55826996164322 g
- Protein 7.14630950000708 g
- Saturated Fat 2.44373355354637 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (240g)
- Sodium 8.80665000165104 mg
- Sugar 86.5898725441407 g
- Trans Fat 0.902347151314415 g
- Calories 546 calories
Step-by-step
- Cut pork into thin slices. If using pork shoulder, halve it lengthwise to form two long pieces, then slice the pieces.
- Combine marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add pork. Marinate for 30 minutes, or overnight.
- To cook, heat oil in a large non-stick skillet over high heat. Add garlic and onion, cook for 2 minutes until translucent.
- Add pork and cook for 5 minutes or until dark golden and caramelised, and just cooked through.
- Serve immediately with rice, garnished with sliced shallots and sesame seeds.
My Go-To Spicy Korean Pork Stir-Fry: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can feel like a constant uphill battle. Weeknights are a whirlwind of homework help, school events, and the ever-present to-do list. So, when I discovered this Spicy Korean Pork Stir-Fry recipe, it became an instant staple in our family's dinner rotation. It’s quick, easy, and unbelievably flavorful, satisfying even the pickiest eaters (which, let me tell you, is a huge win!).
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. The marinade, a vibrant blend of gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger, infuses the pork with a complex depth of flavor that's both sweet and spicy. I usually marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes, but even a quick 15-minute marinade does the trick in a pinch. The longer it marinates, the more intense the flavor becomes—perfect for those nights when you have a little extra time to prep.
What truly sets this recipe apart is its adaptability. Feeling adventurous? Swap the pork for chicken or beef; both work wonderfully with this marinade. Need to use up some vegetables? Toss in some sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, or even spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. The possibilities are endless. And the best part? Cleanup is a breeze; most of the cooking happens in one pan!
This isn't just a quick weeknight meal; it's a culinary adventure that the whole family can enjoy. The vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and satisfying flavors make it a feast for the senses. It's the kind of dish that transports you, even for just a few minutes, to a bustling Korean street food market. And that’s exactly what I need after a long day—a little escape, a little flavor explosion, and a whole lot of deliciousness.
Beyond the Weeknight:
Don't confine this recipe to just weeknights. It's also perfect for casual weekend gatherings. Imagine serving this stir-fry alongside some steamed rice, kimchi, and a refreshing side salad—a simple yet elegant meal that will impress your guests without requiring hours of preparation. The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy schedules. I often double the recipe on the weekends and enjoy leftovers for lunch throughout the week.
Tips and Tricks:
For a milder flavor: Reduce the amount of gochujang. For extra heat: Add a pinch of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes). Short on time? Use pre-shredded carrots and onions. Don't have a pear? An apple or even a few extra tablespoons of brown sugar will work just as well. The key is to balance the sweetness and spiciness to your liking.
The Perfect Balance:
This recipe isn't just about convenience; it's about creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The tender, flavorful pork, the sweet and savory marinade, the slight crunch from the vegetables—it's a symphony of tastes that keeps you coming back for more. It's a reminder that even on the busiest of days, you can still enjoy a healthy, delicious, and satisfying meal. So, the next time you're scrambling to find dinner inspiration, remember this Spicy Korean Pork Stir-Fry. It's your secret weapon for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful weeknight meal.
Final Thoughts:
This recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients and instructions; it's a testament to the power of simple, flavorful cooking. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, there's always time for a delicious and nourishing meal. So go ahead, give it a try, and let the delightful aromas and satisfying flavors transport you to a place of culinary bliss—even if it's just for a few minutes in your own kitchen.
