- Why was the meat chewy?
- You either cut it too thick or cooked it too long at a low temperature, drying it out.
- Can I use other sprouts?
- Mung bean sprouts work, but soybean sprouts (Kongnamul) are thicker and hold up better to heat without turning into mush.
Spicy Pork Bulgogi with Soybean Sprouts
Bulgogi means 'fire meat,' referring to the grilling technique, while Kongnamul refers to soybean sprouts. This dish is a play on textures: thinly sliced, marinated pork is tender and juicy, while the sprouts provide a fresh crunch. The umami bomb of soy sauce and the kick of ginger perfectly balance the richness of the pork.
Ingredients
10
oz
Pork Shoulder or Belly (thinly sliced)
4
tbsp
Soy Sauce
2
cloves
Garlic
1
inch
Fresh Ginger
2
tbsp
Brown Sugar
2
tbsp
Sesame Oil
1/2
tsp
Ground Black Pepper
7
oz
Soybean Sprouts (Kongnamul)
1
stalk
Leek (or Scallion)
1
whole
Lime
2
tbsp
Vegetable Oil (for frying)
1
tbsp
Toasted Sesame Seeds
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Wok or large skillet
- Mixing bowl for marinade
- Sharp knife
Allergen Information
Wheat
Soy
Sesame
Instructions
1
✓
Grate the ginger and garlic. Mix the marinade: soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, pepper, ginger, garlic, and lime juice.
Tip: The acidity from the lime and sugar helps tenderize the pork fibers.
2
✓
Slice the pork paper-thin. Toss it in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Tip: Place the pork in the freezer for 20 minutes before slicing—firm, semi-frozen meat is much easier to cut thinly.
3
✓
Prep the vegetables: wash the sprouts and slice the leek into rounds.
Tip: You can pick the brown 'caps' off the sprouts if you want to be precise, but it's not strictly necessary.
4
✓
Heat a wok or skillet with oil until smoking hot. Add the meat (with the marinade) and stir-fry over high heat.
Tip: High heat is essential for caramelization (Maillard reaction) and a smoky flavor. Don't steam it, sear it!
5
✓
When the meat is nearly done (about 3-4 minutes), add the sprouts and leeks. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
Tip: The sprouts only need a quick flash in the pan to stay crunchy; don't let them wilt completely.
6
✓
Serve immediately, sprinkled with sesame seeds.
Tip: Traditionally eaten with rice or wrapped in lettuce leaves (ssam).
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 10 oz Pork Shoulder or Belly (thinly sliced)
- 4 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1 inch Fresh Ginger
- 2 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 2 tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- 7 oz Soybean Sprouts (Kongnamul)
- 1 stalk Leek (or Scallion)
- 1 whole Lime
- 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil (for frying)
- 1 tbsp Toasted Sesame Seeds