Spicy Gochujang shrimp Samgyeopsal
Spicy Shrimp Stuffed Samgyeopsal is a bold twist on traditional Korean BBQ. Juicy pork belly is butterflied and filled with marinated shrimp, then roasted to perfection before being brushed with a savory gochujang sauce. The rich layers of pork fat and tender shrimp create an irresistible harmony of flavors, while the final torching adds a smoky depth that elevates the dish. Garnished with fresh chives and sesame seeds, this modern take on samgyeopsal is perfect for dinner parties or an upgraded Korean BBQ experience at home.
1h
easy
Cooking Order
Ingredients
Basic ingredients
Samgyeopsal (Pork belly)1 kg(2.2 lbs)
Large shrimp300 g(10.6 oz)
Chives(to garnish)
Sesame seeds(to garnish)
Seasoning Sauce
Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)1 tbsp
Corn syrup (Oligodang)3 tbsp
Minced garlic2 tbsp
Gochujang (Korean chili paste)2 tbsp
Black pepper0.2 tbsp
Shrimp Marinade
Shrimp (peeled, deveined)400 g(14.1 oz)
Seasoned salt0.2 tbsp
Black pepper0.2 tbsp
Mirin (cooking wine)1 tbsp
Step 1:
Wash thawed shrimp, remove tails, and marinate with seasoned salt, pepper, and mirin.
Step 2:
Butterfly the Samgyeopsal (Pork belly), cut a pocket, and insert two shrimp overlapping head-to-tail.
Step 3:
Preheat oven to 185°C (365°F) for 10 minutes. Roast pork belly for 20 minutes, flip, then roast another 20 minutes until golden brown.
Step 4:
Mix gochugaru, corn syrup, minced garlic, gochujang, and pepper to make the seasoning sauce.
Step 5:
Remove pork from oven and slice into bite-sized pieces.
Step 6:
Brush slices with sauce on both sides and lightly torch the surface.
Step 7:
Garnish with chives and sesame seeds, then serve hot.
Editor's Detail
Spicy Gochujang Shrimp Samgyeopsal: Korean BBQ Fusion Revolution
Experience the bold fusion of spicy gochujang shrimp samgyeopsal – where Korean BBQ tradition meets seafood innovation. Discover this fiery twist on classic Korean grilling.
Spicy gochujang shrimp samgyeopsal represents the perfect marriage of Korea’s beloved BBQ culture with modern seafood innovation. This fiery fusion dish transforms the traditional communal dining experience of samgyeopsal by featuring succulent shrimp glazed with Korea’s signature fermented chili paste, creating an unforgettable Korean BBQ adventure that satisfies both tradition and contemporary tastes.
The Fusion Revolution: Spicy Meets Seafood
Traditional samgyeopsal (삼겹살) centers around grilled pork belly cooked at the table, but spicy gochujang shrimp samgyeopsal elevates this concept with premium seafood and bold Korean heat. The dish maintains the social, interactive spirit of Korean BBQ while offering a lighter alternative that doesn’t compromise on the intense, complex flavors Korean cuisine is famous for.
This seafood variation appeals to health-conscious diners and spice lovers who crave the authentic Korean BBQ experience with a modern twist that showcases gochujang’s incredible versatility.
Essential Korean Ingredients: The Heat Masters
Gochujang (고춧장): The Fiery Foundation
Korean Name: 고춧장 (goh-chu-jang)
Gochujang is the heart and soul of this dish – a fermented chili paste that’s simultaneously sweet, spicy, savory, and deeply complex. When applied to shrimp, it creates a caramelized glaze that delivers authentic Korean heat while enhancing the natural sweetness of seafood.
Why It’s Essential: Unlike regular hot sauce, gochujang provides umami depth from fermentation, making it irreplaceable for authentic Korean flavor.
Where to Find: Available at Asian markets or online. Brands like CJ Haechandle offer restaurant-quality flavor.
Gochugaru (고춧가루): The Spice Amplifier
Korean Name: 고춧가루 (goh-chu-ga-ru)
Korean chili flakes add textural heat and smoky sweetness that perfectly complements gochujang’s richness. The combination creates layers of spice that build rather than overwhelm.
Fresh Garlic & Sesame Oil: The Flavor Bridge
Fresh garlic grilled alongside shrimp becomes sweet and mellow, while toasted sesame oil provides the signature Korean finish that ties all flavors together.
Korean BBQ Culture: The Social Experience
Interactive Dining: The beauty of shrimp samgyeopsal lies in the communal cooking experience. Grilling at the table encourages conversation and shared enjoyment that defines Korean dining culture.
Lettuce Wraps: Fresh lettuce and perilla leaves (kkaennip) provide cooling contrast to spicy gochujang shrimp, creating perfect bite-sized packages of flavor and texture.
Banchan Tradition: Small side dishes like kimchi, pickled vegetables, and seasoned greens balance the rich, spicy main dish while adding nutritional variety.
Modern Korean BBQ Evolution
The rise of seafood variations in Korean BBQ reflects Korea’s culinary evolution – honoring tradition while embracing innovation. Spicy gochujang shrimp samgyeopsal satisfies modern preferences for lighter proteins while maintaining the bold flavors and social aspects that make Korean BBQ special.
This fusion approach has gained popularity in Korean restaurants worldwide, offering familiar Korean BBQ experiences with exciting new twists that appeal to diverse palates.
Health Benefits & Modern Appeal
Shrimp provides lean protein and essential nutrients, while fermented Korean ingredients like gochujang offer beneficial probiotics. The interactive cooking method and variety of vegetables create a balanced, engaging meal that’s both nutritious and culturally enriching.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes spicy gochujang shrimp samgyeopsal authentically Korean?
The authentic Korean elements come from traditional fermented ingredients (gochujang), communal table grilling, and the lettuce wrap presentation with banchan sides. The cooking method and flavor profile maintain Korean BBQ authenticity despite the protein variation.
How spicy is gochujang compared to other hot sauces?
Gochujang typically ranges from mild to medium heat (2,500-8,000 Scoville units), but its complexity comes from sweet and savory notes rather than pure heat. The fermentation process creates deep umami flavors that distinguish it from simple hot sauces.
Can I make this dish less spicy without losing Korean authenticity?
Yes! Use less gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) while maintaining the gochujang base, or choose mild gochujang varieties. The fermented paste provides essential Korean flavor even at lower spice levels, so you won’t sacrifice authenticity.
What sides pair best with spicy gochujang shrimp samgyeopsal?
Essential accompaniments include cooling banchan like cucumber salad, steamed rice to balance heat, fresh lettuce for wrapping, kimchi for fermented contrast, and traditional Korean dipping sauces. These sides help manage spice levels while enhancing the overall Korean BBQ experience.
Conclusion: Embracing Spicy Korean Innovation
Spicy gochujang shrimp samgyeopsal proves that Korean cuisine continues to evolve while honoring its roots. This dish delivers authentic Korean BBQ culture through interactive dining and traditional seasonings, while satisfying modern preferences for seafood and bold flavors.
The combination of premium shrimp, fiery gochujang, and communal grilling creates an unforgettable Korean dining experience that’s perfect for spice lovers and Korean food enthusiasts seeking new adventures in traditional cuisine.
Ready to spice up your Korean BBQ game? Explore more Korean seafood BBQ options or try pairing this dish with cooling Korean side dishes for the perfect balance of heat and refreshment.
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