If you’re looking for a fantastic meal that packs a punch of flavor and comes together quickly, this Spicy Korean Pork Stir Fry Recipe is an absolute winner. Juicy pork slices are marinated in a vibrant blend of gochujang, soy sauce, fresh ginger, and even a touch of sweet pear to balance the heat beautifully. It’s savory, spicy, slightly sweet, and bursting with the kind of bold Korean flair that will have you craving seconds every time. Plus, it’s versatile, quick to prepare, and makes a perfect weeknight dinner or impressive dish to share with friends. Let me walk you through the magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish starts with its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component brings something special, whether it’s the tender juiciness of pork shoulder, the sweet subtlety of grated pear, or the fiery depth of gochujang. These ingredients together create the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color that defines the dish.
- 1 lb / 500g boneless pork shoulder: Trim the excess fat for tender, flavorful slices that caramelize beautifully.
- 1 small pear, grated (1/2 cup): Adds a natural sweetness and tenderizes the meat; nashi or apple works too.
- 1/2 medium onion, grated (1/4 cup): Brings mild sweetness and depth to the marinade.
- 1/2 tsp fresh ginger, minced: Gives a refreshing, slightly spicy kick that brightens the flavor.
- 1 garlic clove, crushed: Essential aromatic that complements the pork perfectly.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce: Adds umami saltiness; use all-purpose or light soy sauce for balance.
- 2 tbsp brown sugar: Sweetens and helps with caramelization during cooking.
- 2 tsp sesame oil: Imparts a rich, nutty aroma that’s simply irresistible.
- 3 tbsp gochujang (Korean Hot Pepper Paste): The star ingredient delivering the signature spicy and slightly sweet flavor.
- 1 tbsp cooking oil: For stir frying, choose one with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola oil.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Added during cooking to boost savory flavors.
- 1 onion, halved and sliced: Adds texture and a touch of sweetness as it softens and caramelizes.
- 1 scallion/shallot stalk, sliced: Garnishes the dish with a fresh, mild onion bite.
- Sesame seeds: For crunch and visual appeal at the finish.
- Rice: Ideal for soaking up all the spicy, savory sauce—steamed white rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
How to Make Spicy Korean Pork Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Begin by trimming any excess fat off your pork shoulder. To achieve thin, even slices, halve the pork lengthwise to create two long pieces, then carefully slice against the grain. This method ensures tender bites that soak up all the marinade flavors splendidly.
Step 2: Marinate the Pork
In a bowl, combine the grated pear, grated onion, minced ginger, crushed garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and especially the gochujang to create a beautifully balanced marinade. Toss the pork slices in this mixture, ensuring every piece is coated generously. While 30 minutes is sufficient to get things going, marinating overnight amps up the deep, spicy-sweet complexity worth waking up for.
Step 3: Stir-Fry to Perfection
Heat a tablespoon of cooking oil in a large non-stick skillet over high heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, cooking for about 2 minutes until they turn translucent and aromatic. Then, pour in the marinated pork slices along with all that fabulous sauce. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, until the pork turns a dark golden brown and caramelizes just right, with edges slightly crispy but tender inside.
Step 4: Final Touches
Once cooked through, remove the pork from heat immediately. This keeps every bite juicy and flavorful, ready to be served straight away with your choice of rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter meal.
How to Serve Spicy Korean Pork Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh sliced scallions add a nice pop of color and mild sharpness, perfectly balancing the dish’s richness. Toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top not only provide a subtle crunch but also that coveted nutty aroma, making each plate picture-perfect and appetizing.
Side Dishes
This spicy Korean pork stir fry pairs beautifully with steamed white rice, which effortlessly soaks up the luscious sauce. For a low-carb, low-calorie option, cauliflower rice is an excellent alternative that keeps the dish light without sacrificing flavor or texture. You could also serve it alongside crisp cucumber kimchi or pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun, shareable meal idea, serve the stir fry on a platter with lettuce leaves, allowing everyone to make their own wraps. Adding a dollop of plain yogurt or a drizzle of sesame oil on top can also elevate the dish, adding coolness or extra nuttiness that beautifully compliments the spicy, savory pork.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftover spicy Korean pork stir fry will keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully, making each reheated bite just as enjoyable as the first round.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked pork stir fry for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags to maintain freshness and flavor. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. You can also microwave it covered, stirring halfway through to ensure evenly heated pork bursting with all its spicy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal due to its fat content and tenderness, you can also use pork loin or tenderloin if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook leaner cuts, as they can dry out quickly.
What can I substitute for gochujang if I can’t find it?
If gochujang is unavailable, mix together some red chili paste or powder with a bit of miso paste and a touch of honey or sugar to mimic its spicy, umami, and slightly sweet flavor. It won’t be exact, but it’ll still bring a tasty kick.
Is this recipe very spicy?
This Spicy Korean Pork Stir Fry Recipe has a pleasant heat level that can be adjusted by altering the amount of gochujang. If you prefer milder dishes, start with less and taste as you go. For heat lovers, feel free to add extra chili flakes or paste.
How long can I marinate the pork before cooking?
Marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop, but for best results, refrigerate the pork overnight. The pear and onion in the marinade also help tenderize the meat, making it extra juicy and flavorful.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce, and check your gochujang label as some brands may contain wheat. Choosing certified gluten-free ingredients ensures a delicious, worry-free meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s quick, packed with authentic Korean flavors, and bursting with exciting spice and sweetness, the Spicy Korean Pork Stir Fry Recipe is your new best friend. It’s one of those dishes you’ll find yourself returning to again and again, perfect for any occasion. So grab those simple ingredients, take a moment to marinate, and dive into a vibrant, delicious meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. You won’t regret it!
