Indulge in the delightful flavors of Pork Belly with Sesame Dip, a popular and beloved meat dish in Korean cuisine known as “Samgyeopsal.” Perfect for family dinners or a visit to Korean barbecue restaurants, this dish features thinly sliced pork belly, renowned for its fatty stripes and uncured, white and beige appearance. Unlike many Korean meat dishes, Samgyeopsal is not marinated or seasoned, allowing the natural flavors of the pork belly to shine. Paired with rice, kimchi, and an array of side dishes, this dish promises a satisfying and flavorful dining experience that celebrates the heart of Korean culinary tradition.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 3 to 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 2 Korean green chiles, sliced and seeded
- 1 pound pork belly, thinly sliced
- 1 head of red or green lettuce, for serving
- 10 perilla leaves, for serving
PREPARATIONS:
- In a small bowl, mix together the sesame oil and salt to create the sesame dip. Season with black pepper and set aside.
- Heat a grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the garlic and chiles on the outer edge of the grill and cook until tender, approximately 4 minutes.
- Grill the pork belly, flipping once, until the fat is rendered and the pork is nicely browned, about 3 minutes per side.
- Serve the grilled pork belly with the sesame dip, lettuce leaves, and perilla leaves for optional wrapping.
YIELD:
- Serves 3
TIPS:
- Experiment with different dipping sauces or condiments to complement the pork belly’s rich flavor.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop for equally delicious results.
In conclusion, Pork Belly with Sesame Dip, or Samgyeopsal, embodies the essence of Korean culinary tradition, offering a delightful and beloved meat dish that celebrates the natural flavors of pork belly. As one of the few Korean meat dishes that is not marinated or seasoned, Samgyeopsal allows the rich and succulent pork belly to take center stage, delighting the taste buds with every tender bite. Whether enjoyed as a part of family dinners or savored at Korean barbecue restaurants, this dish has earned its place as a favorite among Korean cuisine enthusiasts.
At the heart of Samgyeopsal lies the simplicity of its preparation, allowing the natural qualities of the thinly sliced pork belly to shine. Grilling the pork belly over medium-high heat renders the fat, creating an enticing aroma that fills the air. As the pork belly cooks to perfection, the garlic and Korean green chiles on the grill’s outer edge develop tenderness, ready to complement the flavorful meat.
The star of the dish, the Sesame Dip, elevates the pork belly with its nutty and savory notes, adding depth to each succulent bite. As guests gather around the table, they can indulge in a delightful assembly of flavors, wrapping the grilled pork belly in fresh lettuce leaves and perilla leaves for a delightful contrast of textures.
A versatile dish, Samgyeopsal pairs harmoniously with a wide range of accompaniments. From steamed rice and traditional kimchi to an assortment of side dishes, each element contributes to the symphony of flavors that Samgyeopsal offers. With every dining experience, the communal aspect of the dish shines through, uniting loved ones as they partake in the joy of crafting personalized wraps.
Samgyeopsal extends beyond its delectable taste; it is a celebration of Korean culinary heritage and the spirit of sharing. Whether enjoyed at a lively family gathering or a casual dinner with friends, Samgyeopsal brings people together, creating cherished memories around the dining table.
In conclusion, Pork Belly with Sesame Dip, Samgyeopsal, represents the heart of Korean cuisine—simple, delightful, and meant to be shared. As the pork belly grills to perfection and the Sesame Dip imparts its savory allure, guests are drawn together by the communal spirit of the dish. Every bite is an invitation to savor the culinary traditions that have delighted generations, transcending borders to embrace all who savor its succulent flavors. Embrace the joy of Samgyeopsal, and allow the shared experience to unite hearts and palates alike in the celebration of Korean culinary delights.
