Get ready to transform your kitchen into a Korean culinary paradise with this mouthwatering Oven Baked Korean Spicy Pork! Imagine tender, juicy pork belly caramelized with a fiery gochujang marinade that will make your taste buds dance with excitement. This recipe is not just a meal – it's a flavor explosion that brings the bold, spicy essence of Korean cuisine right to your dining table in just 40 minutes. Whether you're a spice lover, a Korean food enthusiast, or simply looking to impress your dinner guests, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Korean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500g pork belly (sliced)
- 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon ginger (minced)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions (chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sesame oil. Whisk thoroughly until the marinade is smooth and well-blended.
- Add the sliced pork belly to the marinade, ensuring each piece is completely coated. Let the meat marinate for at least 15-20 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavors. For deeper flavor, you can marinate in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
- Spread the marinated pork belly pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping to allow even cooking and crispy edges.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, turning the pieces halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispiness.
- Check the pork's internal temperature, which should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. The edges should be slightly caramelized and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds over the top before serving.
- Serve hot with steamed rice, kimchi, or a side of fresh salad for a complete Korean-style meal.
Tips
- Marination is Key: For the most intense flavor, try to marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes, or ideally 2 hours before cooking. This allows the meat to fully absorb the delicious Korean-style seasonings.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When placing the pork on the baking sheet, ensure the pieces are in a single layer and not touching. This helps achieve those crispy, caramelized edges that make this dish irresistible.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to check that the pork reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe and perfectly cooked meat.
- For Extra Crispiness: If you want extra crispy edges, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with steamed rice, kimchi, or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the spicy and rich flavors of the pork.
- Make-Ahead Tip: The marinade can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making this a convenient meal for busy weeknights.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 95mg
