How to Make Spicy and Flavorful Korean Stir-Fried Pork (Jeyuk Bokkeum) in 7 Steps

Jeyuk Bokkeum, also known as Dwaejigogi Bokkeum, is a popular Korean dish made from thinly sliced pork marinated in a spicy and savory sauce, then stir-fried with vegetables. This dish is beloved for its bold flavors, tender pork, and the heat from the gochujang (Korean red chili paste). Jeyuk Bokkeum is often served with steamed rice, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.

Introduction to Jeyuk Bokkeum

Jeyuk Bokkeum is a staple in Korean cuisine, enjoyed for its rich flavors and versatility. The pork is marinated in a mixture of gochujang, gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, creating a deeply flavorful dish with a perfect balance of spice and umami. Vegetables such as onions, carrots, and green onions are added to the stir-fry, providing a crunchy contrast to the tender pork. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing addition to a Korean meal.

Ingredients for Jeyuk Bokkeum (2-3 Servings)

To prepare Jeyuk Bokkeum for two to three people, you'll need the following ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• Pork (shoulder or belly, thinly sliced): 300g (about 10 oz)
• Gochujang (Korean red chili paste): 2 tbsp
• Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes): 1-2 tbsp (adjust to taste)
• Soy sauce: 2 tbsp
• Sugar: 1 tbsp
• Sesame oil: 1 tbsp
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Ginger: 1 tsp, minced
• Rice wine (optional): 1 tbsp
• Ground black pepper: 1/2 tsp

For the Stir-Fry:

• Onion: 1 medium, sliced
• Carrot: 1/2, julienned
• Green onions: 2 stalks, cut into 2-inch pieces
• Cabbage: 1/4 head, chopped into bite-sized pieces (optional)
• Vegetable oil: 2 tbsp (for frying)
• Sesame seeds: 1 tsp (optional, for garnish)
• Sliced green chili pepper: 1 (optional, for added heat)

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Pork

In a large mixing bowl, combine the gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, rice wine (if using), and ground black pepper to create the marinade. Add the thinly sliced pork to the bowl and mix well, ensuring that the pork is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pork is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Slice the onion, julienne the carrot, and chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces if using. Cut the green onions into 2-inch pieces and set all the vegetables aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Pork

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated pork to the pan. Stir-fry the pork for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is fully cooked and begins to caramelize. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent the pork from sticking to the pan.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Add the sliced onion, julienned carrot, and chopped cabbage (if using) to the pan with the pork. Continue stir-frying for another 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are slightly softened but still retain some crunch. The onions should become translucent, and the carrots should be tender-crisp.

Step 5: Add the Green Onions

Add the green onions and any additional ingredients like sliced green chili peppers to the pan. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the green onions are wilted and the flavors are well combined. The green onions add a fresh, aromatic flavor to the dish, complementing the rich, spicy pork.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the pork and vegetables are fully cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Transfer the Jeyuk Bokkeum to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds if desired. The sesame seeds add a subtle nuttiness and a nice visual contrast to the vibrant colors of the dish.

Step 7: Enjoy with Steamed Rice

Jeyuk Bokkeum is best served hot, accompanied by steamed rice to balance the bold, spicy flavors of the dish. The tender pork, combined with the crunchy vegetables and rich sauce, makes this dish a satisfying and flavorful meal. Serve it alongside other Korean side dishes (banchan) for a complete and authentic Korean dining experience.

Tips for Perfect Jeyuk Bokkeum

1. Use Thinly Sliced Pork: Thin slices of pork cook quickly and absorb the marinade well, ensuring that each bite is flavorful and tender. Pork shoulder or belly works well for this dish.
2. Adjust the Spice Level: Jeyuk Bokkeum can be as spicy or mild as you like. Adjust the amount of gochugaru and gochujang to suit your taste preferences.
3. Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Stir-fry the vegetables just until they are tender-crisp to maintain their texture and freshness.

Conclusion

Jeyuk Bokkeum is a flavorful and hearty Korean dish that combines tender pork with a spicy, savory marinade and crunchy vegetables. This dish is easy to prepare and is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as part of a larger Korean feast. Follow these seven steps to create an authentic and delicious Jeyuk Bokkeum at home, and enjoy the rich, satisfying flavors of this classic Korean stir-fry with your family and friends.