If you are craving a flavorful and interactive meal, the Korean Samgyupsal recipe is the perfect choice. This dish features thin slices of pork belly grilled to perfection, accompanied by an array of fresh vegetables, savory sauces, and often wrapped in lettuce leaves. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, this Korean BBQ classic offers a fun, hands-on dining experience that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.
Tips to make the Korean Samgyupsal recipe:
1. Choose the Right Pork Belly: Opt for high-quality, thinly sliced pork belly with a good balance of meat and fat. You can typically find this cut at Korean markets. The right thickness ensures it cooks quickly and evenly, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
2. Prepare Fresh Ingredients: Have an assortment of fresh side dishes prepared such as kimchi, sliced garlic, and ssamjang (a flavorful dipping sauce). These accompaniments enhance the flavor and provide a variety of textures.
3. Use Ssam Wrapping: Add excitement to your meal by wrapping grilled pork belly, along with toppings like garlic and ssamjang, in lettuce leaves. This traditional method enhances each bite’s taste and is fun for everyone.
4. Preheat the Grill: Whether using a stovetop griddle or outdoor grill, ensure it is preheated before placing the pork belly on it. A high temperature ensures a quick sear and locks in the meat’s natural juices and flavors.
How to Make Korean Samgyupsal Recipe Recipe?

Korean Samgyupsal Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Tabletop grill For grilling the pork belly
- 1 Tongs To flip and manage the pork slices
Ingredients
- 500 g Pork belly Thinly sliced
- to taste Salt To season the pork
- to taste Black pepper Freshly ground
- 1 head Lettuce Leaves separated for wrapping
- 4 cloves Garlic Sliced
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil For grilling
- 4 tbsp Ssamjang Spicy Korean dipping sauce
- 2 Green chilies Sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the tabletop grill and lightly oil the surface.
- Place the pork belly slices on the grill.
- Season the pork with salt and pepper.
- Grill the pork for about 3-5 minutes on each side until it's golden brown and cooked through.
- Add slices of garlic to the grill, cooking until lightly browned.
- Place a piece of grilled pork, garlic, and green chilies on a lettuce leaf.
- Add a small amount of ssamjang for dipping, wrap, and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Preparing Korean Samgyupsal at home can be a delightful and rewarding experience. This popular Korean dish, known for its simple yet flavorful grilled pork belly, can bring a taste of Korea to your kitchen. The use of fresh ingredients, from the rich, marinated pork slices to the crisp, vibrant vegetables, ensures a balanced and satisfying meal that is both delicious and healthy.
Gathering with family or friends around a sizzling grill makes the Samgyupsal experience even more enjoyable. This communal style of eating not only enhances the flavors but also strengthens bonds as everyone shares in the preparation and enjoyment of the meal. Remember to offer a variety of side dishes, like kimchi and ssamjang, to complement and elevate the taste of the grilled pork.
Finally, whether you’re cooking Samgyupsal for a special occasion or a casual meal, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a favorite for many, and with a few straightforward steps, you can recreate this iconic Korean dish. Enjoy experimenting with different marinades and sides to make the experience uniquely yours.