Discover the joy of Boiled Pork, a delightful Korean dish known as “Bo Ssam.” This interactive and communal meal brings together the flavors of tender pork belly and delectable kimchi, wrapped in bite-size portions that make for an excellent appetizer, main course, or even a delightful drinking snack. Translating to “wrapped,” Bo Ssam allows each diner to create their own flavorful wraps, making it a perfect choice for casual get-togethers with friends or occasions when you want to enjoy a communal dining experience without serving a full Korean meal. With its simplicity and communal appeal, Boiled Pork is sure to become a favorite addition to your culinary repertoire, offering a unique and enjoyable dining experience for gatherings of all kinds.
INGREDIENTS:
- 8 cups water
- 1 pound pork belly
- 1 ounce fresh ginger, cut into slices
- 12 or more whole leaves napa cabbage
- Seasoned Radish Strips (with saengchae sauce, here)
- Korean fermented, salted shrimp (saeujeot)
- Lettuce Wrap Sauce (here)
PREPARATIONS:
- Bring a large stockpot of water to a boil over high heat.
- Add the pork belly and ginger, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour. Remove from the heat and let the pork belly cool in the liquid for about 10 minutes.
- Remove the pork belly to a carving board and slice it in thirds lengthwise, and then cut each piece into slices that are ¼ inch thick.
- Discard the cooking liquid and rinse out the pot. Fill the pot about halfway with water and bring to a boil.
- Add the cabbage leaves and parboil for about 1 minute and then dunk into very cold water. Drain and then slice the cabbage leaves into small pieces.
- Serve the pork belly slices with the cabbage leaves, seasoned radish, tiny fermented shrimp, and lettuce wrap sauce.
YIELD:
- Serves 6 to 8
TIPS:
- Save some of the liquid used to boil the pork for reheating leftovers.
- Prepare a variety of toppings and sauces for guests to customize their Bo Ssam wraps to their liking.
In conclusion, Boiled Pork, or Bo Ssam, epitomizes the essence of communal dining, offering a fun and interactive way to savor the delicious combination of tender pork belly and flavorful kimchi. This delightful Korean dish presents a unique dining experience where guests can create their own wraps, filling each bite with a delightful medley of flavors and textures. The simplicity and versatility of Boiled Pork make it a delightful addition to any gathering, be it a casual get-together with friends or a relaxed family meal.
The preparation of Boiled Pork begins with simmering the pork belly in a fragrant broth, allowing the meat to become tender and infused with the subtle flavors of ginger. As the pork cools, it is then sliced into thin pieces, ready to be presented on the communal dining table.
The accompanying napa cabbage leaves provide a refreshing and crisp element to the dish, serving as the perfect vessel for wrapping the succulent pork slices together with the seasoned radish strips and tiny fermented shrimp. The Lettuce Wrap Sauce adds a zesty and tangy note, bringing all the components together in a harmonious blend of flavors.
One of the unique aspects of Boiled Pork lies in its communal nature, encouraging guests to engage in the joy of crafting their own personalized wraps. This interactive element adds a sense of camaraderie and enjoyment to the dining experience, making it an excellent choice for gatherings where socializing and sharing food are at the heart of the occasion.
Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or even as a delectable drinking snack, Boiled Pork provides a delightful journey through the diverse flavors of Korean cuisine. Its simplicity and communal appeal make it an excellent choice for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike, offering a memorable dining experience that lingers in the hearts and minds of all who partake in its delightful flavors.
In conclusion, Boiled Pork, or Bo Ssam, is more than just a dish—it is a celebration of communal dining, flavors, and togetherness. Gather your loved ones, share in the joy of crafting delightful wraps, and savor the delectable combination of tender pork belly, crisp cabbage, and flavorful toppings. With Boiled Pork as the centerpiece, every occasion becomes a special and memorable dining experience. So, prepare the ingredients, set the table, and embark on a culinary journey through the heartwarming flavors of Boiled Pork!
