Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to Korea, where bold flavors and hearty ingredients come together to create mouthwatering dishes? Look no further than this recipe for Savory Pork Belly paired with a Tangy Cabbage Salad. With succulent pork belly infused with rich flavors and a refreshing cabbage salad bursting with tangy goodness, this dish promises to transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Seoul. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to recreate this authentic Korean delicacy in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
For the Pork Belly:
- Pork belly, sliced
- Pepper and bay leaf
- Salt
- Frying oil
- Brown sugar
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Soy sauce
- Balsamic vinegar
- Freshly ground pepper
- Water
For the Cabbage Salad:
- Cabbage, chopped
- Red cabbage, chopped
- Salt
- Carrots, grated
- Cucumber, sliced
- Cherry tomatoes, chopped
- Dill, chopped
- Lemon juice
- Worcestershire sauce
- Olive oil
- Freshly ground pepper
- Lingonberries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork Belly:
- Slice the pork belly into thick slices and season with pepper, bay leaf, and salt.
- Cook the pork belly in boiling water for 15 minutes to tenderize.
- Remove the pork from the water and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Heat frying oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the pork slices to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides.
- In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, minced garlic, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, freshly ground pepper, and water.
- Pour the sauce over the pork slices and cook covered for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Cabbage Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine chopped cabbage and red cabbage.
- Add salt to the cabbage and squeeze until the leaves release their juices.
- Add grated carrots, sliced cucumber, chopped cherry tomatoes, and chopped dill to the bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, freshly ground pepper, and lingonberries (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well combined.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Pork Belly Alternatives: You can also use pork shoulder or pork loin for this recipe if preferred.
- Marinating Time: For even more flavor, marinate the pork belly slices in the sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of freshly ground pepper and garlic to suit your taste preferences.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Skip the brown sugar in the pork belly sauce and use a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
- Serve the cabbage salad without the lingonberries for a lower carb option.
Low-Carb Version:
- Omit the brown sugar entirely from the pork belly sauce and replace it with a small amount of sugar-free maple syrup for sweetness.
- Use a low-carb substitute like cauliflower rice instead of serving the dish with rice.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use pork belly with skin on for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use pork belly with or without the skin, depending on your preference. If using pork belly with skin, make sure to score the skin before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Q: What can I serve with this dish besides the cabbage salad? A: This pork belly pairs well with steamed rice, kimchi, pickled vegetables, or Korean-style side dishes like japchae or kimchi pancakes.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the pork belly and cabbage salad components separately ahead of time and assemble them just before serving to maintain optimal freshness and flavor.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this recipe for Savory Pork Belly with Tangy Cabbage Salad offers a tantalizing taste of Korean cuisine that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With tender pork belly infused with savory-sweet flavors and a refreshing cabbage salad bursting with tangy goodness, this dish is a true celebration of Korean culinary traditions. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to savor every bite of this delectable Korean delicacy. Whether enjoyed as a comforting dinner or served at a festive gathering, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression and have everyone asking for seconds!
