Korean BBQ Meatloaf: A Fusion of Comfort and Korean Flair

Embark on a culinary adventure with our Korean BBQ Meatloaf, a delightful fusion that marries the comforting essence of traditional meatloaf with the bold, savory flavors of Korean barbecue. This unique recipe takes the classic meatloaf to new heights, infusing it with a tantalizing combination of gochujang, soy sauce, and garlic. Whether you’re a meatloaf enthusiast or someone looking to explore the world of Korean cuisine, this recipe promises a savory journey for your taste buds. Join us as we delve into the art of crafting a Korean BBQ Meatloaf that harmonizes the familiar with the adventurous.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean red pepper paste)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Glaze:

• 1/4 cup gochujang
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Meatloaf:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine Meatloaf Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, salt, and black pepper. Ensure even distribution of ingredients.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
   • Transfer the meat mixture to a greased baking dish and shape it into a loaf.

Make the Glaze:

4. Mix Glaze Ingredients:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to create the glaze.

Glaze and Bake:

5. Apply Glaze:
   • Brush a generous amount of the glaze over the surface of the meatloaf, ensuring it is fully coated.
6. Bake in Preheated Oven:
   • Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Glaze During Cooking:
   • Periodically brush additional glaze over the meatloaf during the baking process to build layers of flavor.

Garnish and Serve:

8. Sprinkle Sesame Seeds and Green Onions:
   • Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top for a visually appealing garnish.
9. Rest Before Slicing:
   • Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
10. Slice and Serve:
    • Slice the Korean BBQ Meatloaf into portions, serve on a platter, and enjoy the savory fusion of traditional meatloaf with Korean flair.

Cook Notes

• Combining Ingredients Gently: Mix the meatloaf ingredients gently to avoid compacting the meat, resulting in a lighter texture.
• Adjusting Spice Level: For a milder version, reduce the amount of gochujang in both the meatloaf and glaze. Adjust according to your spice preference.
• Basting for Flavor: Basting the meatloaf with the glaze during baking enhances the depth of flavor and adds a beautiful sheen.
• Checking Internal Temperature: Ensure the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.

Variations

Kimchi Kick:

• Incorporate finely chopped kimchi into the meatloaf mixture for an extra burst of Korean flavor.

Pork and Beef Blend:

• Use a combination of ground pork and beef for a more complex flavor profile.

Vegetarian Twist:

• Create a vegetarian version using plant-based ground meat, such as Beyond Meat, and adjust the binding agents accordingly.

Keto Versions

Almond Flour Alchemy:

• Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour to create a keto-friendly meatloaf.

Monk Fruit Magic:

• Use monk fruit sweetener in place of brown sugar in the glaze for a low-carb alternative.

Cauliflower Rice Complement:

• Serve the Korean BBQ Meatloaf over cauliflower rice for a low-carb base.

Low-Carb Versions

Vegetable Noodle Nest:

• Create a bed of spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash noodles for a low-carb noodle option.

Cauliflower Mash Base:

• Serve the Korean BBQ Meatloaf over cauliflower mash for a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.

Coconut Aminos Substitution:

• Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free, low-carb version.

A Taste of Korea in Every Bite

In conclusion, our Korean BBQ Meatloaf isn’t just a meatloaf; it’s a flavorful journey that takes you from the comfort of classic meatloaf to the vibrant and savory realm of Korean cuisine. Whether you follow the classic recipe, experiment with variations, explore keto adaptations, or savor the low-carb alternatives, this dish promises to be a star on your dining table.

As you savor each bite, envision the fusion of flavors, the harmony of spices, and the joy that comes from creating a dish that seamlessly blends the familiar with the adventurous. The Korean BBQ Meatloaf is not just a meal; it’s a promise of shared moments, family gatherings, and the creation of delicious memories. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and relish in the anticipation of savoring a dish that brings the bold and savory taste of Korea to your table. Cheers to the Korean BBQ Meatloaf – where every bite is a celebration of comfort, flavor, and the joy of exploring new culinary horizons!