**Introduction**
Samgyeopsal, or grilled pork belly, is one of Korea’s most beloved grilled dishes. It’s simple, savory, and perfect for sharing, making it a staple at Korean BBQ tables nationwide. Unlike marinated BBQ meats, Samgyeopsal highlights the natural flavors and textures of thick pork belly slices grilled directly over an open flame or stovetop grill. Served with fresh vegetables, dipping sauces, and wrapped in leafy greens, it offers an interactive and delightful dining experience even for those new to Korean cuisine.
**Main Content**
*Ingredients for One Serving:*
– Pork belly slices (samgyeopsal), fresh – 200g
– Garlic cloves – 3 pieces (thinly sliced)
– Green chili pepper – 1 (optional, sliced)
– Lettuce leaves (ssam lettuce) – 5-6 leaves
– Perilla leaves (optional) – 3-4 leaves
– Ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce) – 2 tablespoons
– Sesame oil – 1 tablespoon
– Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
– Black pepper – a pinch
– Cooked white rice – 1 bowl (about 150g)
*Step-by-Step Recipe:*
1. **Preparation:**
– Slice the pork belly into thick, bite-sized pieces (about 1 cm thickness).
– Prepare garlic slices and green chili if you like some spice. Wash the lettuce and perilla leaves and pat dry.
2. **Seasoning:**
– Lightly season the pork belly slices with salt and black pepper on both sides.
3. **Grilling:**
– Heat a grill pan or non-stick pan on medium-high heat.
– Place the pork belly slices evenly on the hot pan. The pork will start to sizzle and render its fat.
– Add garlic slices and chili pieces to the pan to grill alongside the pork for extra flavor.
– Grill the pork until it is golden brown and crispy on the edges, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
– Flip and cook carefully, making sure the pork is cooked through but still juicy.
4. **Serving:**
– Remove the pork and place on a serving plate.
– Provide ssamjang (a savory, slightly spicy fermented soybean paste) and the sesame oil as dipping sauces on the side.
– To eat: Take a lettuce leaf, add a piece of grilled pork, a slice of garlic, a dab of ssamjang, and a little rice wrapped inside. Fold the leaf and enjoy in one bite.
**Conclusion**
Samgyeopsal is more than just grilled pork belly – it’s an experience that brings people together around a warm grill. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the fresh, flavorful accompaniments captures the heart of Korean cuisine. Whether you’re enjoying it at a Korean BBQ restaurant or making it at home, this dish is an easy and delicious introduction to Korean grilled dishes. Give this recipe a try and savor the crispy, juicy, and savory bliss that is Samgyeopsal!
