Picture this: you walk into your home after a long day, and the air is thick with the sweet and savory aroma of Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder simmering away in the slow cooker. It’s as if you’ve been transported to a bustling street market in Seoul without ever leaving your kitchen. This dish has a unique ability to turn any ordinary day into a festive occasion, and the best part? It requires only a handful of accessible ingredients and just a little prep work, letting you focus on savoring the flavors instead of sweating over the stove.
I first discovered this recipe on a chilly winter evening when I was yearning for something comforting yet vibrant. The combination of garlic, ginger, and tangy-sweet apples in the marinade creates a symphony of tastes that beautifully complements the richness of the pork. As the meat slowly transforms into tender, flavorful pieces, your patience will be rewarded with every bite served over fluffy white rice. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just treating yourself to a delicious night in, my Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder will impress, satisfy, and keep you coming back for more. Let’s dive into this delightful culinary adventure!
Why is Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder irresistible?
Irresistible flavors: The blend of garlic, ginger, and sweet apples mingles seamlessly with savory pork, creating a dish packed with taste.
Effortlessly simple: This recipe lets you enjoy homemade comfort food without hours of slaving in the kitchen—just set it and forget it!
Mouthwatering tenderness: Slow-cooking the pork ensures every bite is melt-in-your-mouth delicious, perfect for any occasion.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for family dinners or gatherings, this dish garners rave reviews and clears plates every time.
Versatile serving options: Pair it with fluffy rice, toss it into tacos, or serve it over a fresh salad for delightful meal variations.
Make sure to explore more slow cooker recipes for effortless mealtime inspiration!
Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder Ingredients
Prepare to indulge in the rich flavors of Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder with these essential ingredients!
For the Marinade
- 12 cloves garlic – adds a robust aroma and depth of flavor to the dish.
- 0.5 cup brown sugar – balances the savory elements with a hint of sweetness.
- 2 tbsp chili garlic paste – provides a delightful kick to elevate your dish.
- 1 inch ginger – infuses freshness and warmth that perfectly complements the pork.
- 2 unpeeled apples – their natural sweetness enhances the overall taste of the marinade.
- 0.5 cup soy sauce – brings umami richness that forms the base of the marinade.
For the Pork
- 4 lbs boneless pork shoulder – this cut is ideal for slow cooking, resulting in tender, juicy pieces.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil – helps achieve a beautiful sear on the pork for extra flavor.
- 1 tsp salt – enhances the natural flavors of the pork and the marinade.
For Serving
- 6 cups white rice – acts as a deliciously fluffy base that soaks up all the tasty sauce.
Get ready to create your very own Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder masterpiece!
How to Make Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder
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Blend Ingredients: In a medium bowl, blend the soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili garlic paste until well mixed. Fold in the chopped apple, minced garlic, and grated ginger for a fragrant marinade.
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Rub the Pork: Rub the pork shoulder with vegetable oil, ensuring it’s well coated. Sprinkle it evenly with salt, enhancing the flavors while preparing for a perfect sear.
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Sear the Meat: In a heated 12-inch nonstick skillet, sear the pork for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in flavors and adds a beautiful color to the meat.
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Slow Cook: Move the seared pork shoulder to a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Pour the marinade over the pork and cover. Cook on Low for 7 to 8 hours until the pork is incredibly tender and full of flavor.
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Prepare the Sauce: Once cooked, transfer the pork to a cutting board and allow it to cool slightly. Strain the cooking sauce to remove solids, returning the smooth sauce to the slow cooker for extra richness.
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Shred the Pork: Use two forks or your hands to shred the cooled pork into tender pieces. Stir the shredded pork back into the slow cooker to coat it with the glossy sauce, making sure every bite is delicious.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the shredded pork over fluffy white rice, allowing the rice to soak up all the mouthwatering sauce.
Optional: Top with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the pork has cooled before sealing to maintain its moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shredded pork in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Be sure to remove excess air to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in a skillet or microwave until heated throughout. This preserves the flavors of the Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder.
Leftovers: If you plan to use leftovers in different meals, consider portioning them out before freezing, making it easier to grab just what you need later!
Expert Tips for Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder
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Perfect Sear: Always sear the pork shoulder until golden brown; this step locks in flavors and enhances the dish’s richness.
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Marinade Magic: Allow the pork to marinate for a few hours or overnight if possible. This enhances the flavor profile of your Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder dramatically.
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Avoid Overcooking: Ensure you don’t cook the pork shoulder beyond 8 hours; overcooked meat can become dry, losing that melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
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Sauce Consistency: Straining the sauce is essential for a smooth texture. Removing solids ensures your final dish has a glossy, rich coating.
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Serving Suggestions: Feel free to experiment with servings. Try adding the pork to tacos, salads, or sandwiches for delightful variations using your Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder.
What to Serve with Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that enhance the sweet, savory, and spicy flavors of this beloved dish.
- Fluffy White Rice: Acts as the perfect base, soaking up the rich sauce and balancing the pork’s bold flavors.
- Fresh Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in a tangy dressing provide a refreshing crunch to complement the tender meat.
- Kimchi: This traditional Korean side dish adds a spicy and tangy kick while offering a probiotic boost—perfect for cutting through the richness.
Pair Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder with a warm, fluffy baguette to soak up every drop of that luscious sauce. Offering a lovely contrast in texture, it’s perfect for sopping up the flavors!
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds vibrant color to your plate while its mild flavor allows the pork to shine.
- Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy and slightly sweet, this mash offers a delightful twist that harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of the pork.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: The effervescence cleanses the palate and adds a lightness that perfectly balances the richness of the meal.
Enjoy creating your perfect meal with these pairings to delight your taste buds!
Make Ahead Options
These Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the pork shoulder up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Simply blend the marinade (soy sauce, brown sugar, chili garlic paste, apples, garlic, and ginger) and refrigerate it with the pork. You can also pre-chop the apples, garlic, and ginger and store them in airtight containers to save time. On cooking day, sear the marinated pork, place it into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic. You’ll achieve truly indulgent, melt-in-your-mouth results that are just as delicious as if you’d prepared them fresh!
Korean BBQ Pork Variations
Get ready to put your own twist on this delectable dish and explore endless possibilities!
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Spicy Kick: Add extra chili garlic paste or a splash of sriracha for those who crave heat. Bold flavors will spark your taste buds and keep every bite exciting.
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Fruit Fusion: Swap apples for unpeeled pears or peaches to infuse a different fruity essence into your marinade. The sweetness will complement the savory pork beautifully.
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Gluten-Free: Use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version without sacrificing flavor. Everyone can enjoy this dish without worry!
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Sweet & Savory: Incorporate pineapple chunks into the slow cooker for a tropical touch that balances the rich pork with a burst of natural sweetness.
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Herbaceous Notes: Add fresh chopped cilantro or green onions just before serving to brighten the flavor. Their freshness will elevate every forkful, making it a vibrant dish.
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Taco Twist: Serve the pork in corn tortillas topped with avocado and lime juice for a Korean-Mexican fusion that’s sure to wow at your next gathering.
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Creamy Alternative: For a comforting bite, mix in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving. This creamy element will create a rich flavor experience.
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Noodle Delight: Instead of rice, serve the shredded pork over a bed of cooked rice noodles for a fun, new take on the traditional dish. The noodles will soak up all that delicious sauce.
Embrace your creativity and enjoy every delightful bite!
Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder Recipe FAQs
What kind of apples should I use for the marinade?
Using sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp apples is ideal. They add a delightful sweetness to the marinade that balances the savory and spicy elements beautifully.
How should I properly store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let the pork cool down before sealing it to retain its moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze the Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to remove as much air as possible, sealing tightly to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a skillet to maintain tenderness.
What should I do if the pork shoulder is tough after cooking?
If you find the pork shoulder is tough, it may be due to insufficient cooking time. I recommend checking the slow cooker settings to ensure it’s been cooking on low for the full 7 to 8 hours. If you’re still having issues, consider slicing the pork and returning it to the slow cooker with a bit of added liquid for another 30 minutes until it becomes tender.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Definitely! However, keep in mind that this recipe contains soy sauce, which has wheat and can be a concern for those with gluten allergies. You can substitute with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a safe alternative. Additionally, watch out for any allergies related to garlic or apples, as those ingredients are integral to the dish’s flavor.
How do I know when the pork is done cooking?
A great way to check is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach at least 190°F for the pork shoulder to be perfect and tender. If it shreds easily with a fork, you know it’s ready to enjoy!
Savory Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder that Melts in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, blend the soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili garlic paste until well mixed. Fold in the chopped apple, minced garlic, and grated ginger for a fragrant marinade.
- Rub the pork shoulder with vegetable oil, ensuring it’s well coated. Sprinkle it evenly with salt.
- In a heated skillet, sear the pork for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Move the seared pork shoulder to a slow cooker. Pour the marinade over the pork and cover. Cook on Low for 7 to 8 hours.
- Once cooked, transfer the pork to a cutting board and allow it to cool slightly. Strain the cooking sauce to remove solids.
- Use two forks to shred the cooled pork into tender pieces. Stir the shredded pork back into the slow cooker.
- Serve the shredded pork over white rice.