Name: Savory Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder Over Fluffy Rice Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 515 min
Ingredients: 12 cloves garlic (Minced); 0.5 cup brown sugar (Adds sweetness); 2 tbsp chili garlic paste (Adjust for heat preference); 1 inch ginger (Grated); 2 unpeeled apples (Adds moisture); 0.5 cup soy sauce (For umami flavor); 4 lbs boneless pork shoulder (Ideal for slow cooking); 2 tbsp vegetable oil (For searing); 1 tsp salt (Enhances flavor); 6 cups white rice (To soak up sauce)

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If there’s one dish that instantly transports me to a bustling Korean street market, it’s this Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder. The moment that tender, juicy meat hits my plate, I can almost hear the vibrant energy of vendors grilling away, filling the air with mouthwatering aromas. I was hunting for something to break the monotony of my weeknight dinners and stumbled upon the perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors here.

Picture this: a rich marinade made with garlic, ginger, and a hint of apple for sweetness, embracing the pork shoulder into a melt-in-your-mouth experience. And the best part? This delightful dish practically cooks itself! With just a quick prep and the magic of slow cooking, you’ll be serving a crowd-pleasing meal that can easily steal the spotlight at any dinner table.

Trust me, once you try this recipe served over fluffy white rice, you’ll never look at takeout the same way again! Let’s dive into how to bring this unforgettable Korean BBQ experience right into your home kitchen.

Why is Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder a Must-Try?

Flavor explosion: This dish features a rich marinade that blends savory, sweet, and spicy tones for an unforgettable taste experience.
Effortless cooking: With just 20 minutes of prep, your slow cooker does the heavy lifting—perfect for busy weeknights.
Memorable meals: Serve this crowd-pleaser at gatherings, and watch your guests come back for seconds.
Versatile dish: Customize it with extra vegetables or serve it in wraps—your creativity is the only limit.
Cultural delight: A taste of Korean cuisine right at home lets you elevate your dinner game and impress friends and family.

Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder Ingredients

• For those ready to tantalize their taste buds!

For the Marinade

12 cloves garlic – Mince the garlic for a robust flavor that permeates the pork.
0.5 cup brown sugar – Adds a lovely caramelized sweetness that balances the savory elements.
2 tbsp chili garlic paste – Provides a spicy kick that can be adjusted to your heat preference.
1 inch ginger – Grate fresh ginger for a zesty brightness that enhances the marinade.
2 unpeeled apples – The apples bring natural sweetness and moisture to the dish.
0.5 cup soy sauce – Infuses umami notes that deepen the overall flavor profile.

For the Pork

4 lbs boneless pork shoulder – This cut is ideal for slow cooking, yielding tender, shred-worthy meat.
2 tbsp vegetable oil – Use it to sear the pork, creating a beautiful crust and locking in juices.
1 tsp salt – Enhances all the rich flavors of the marinade and meat.

For Serving

6 cups white rice – The perfect canvas to soak up the savory sauce from the shredded pork.

Get ready for a cooking experience that will transform your understanding of home-cooked meals with this heavenly Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder!

How to Make Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder

Mix the Marinade: In a medium bowl, blend together soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili garlic paste until smooth. Then, fold in the chopped apples, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create a flavorful, aromatic marinade.
Sear the Pork: Rub the pork shoulder with vegetable oil and season it evenly with salt. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms.
Slow Cook the Pork: Transfer the seared pork to a slow cooker. Pour the delicious marinade over the pork, cover it, and set the cooker to Low. Allow it to cook for 7 to 8 hours until tender and easily shredded.
Cool and Strain: Once the pork is cooked to perfection, place it on a cutting board to cool slightly. Strain the cooking sauce, returning the smooth liquid to the slow cooker to mix with the shredded pork later.
Shred the Pork: After it cools a bit, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Stir the shredded meat back into the flavorful sauce in the slow cooker for a tasty finish.
Serve Over Rice: Spoon the savory shredded pork over fluffy white rice, allowing the aromatic sauce to soak in for a delightful meal.

Optional: Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder?

Imagine a meal where each bite resonates with flavors, textures, and vibrant colors that bring family and friends together.

Fluffy White Rice: The classic pairing for this dish, allowing you to soak up every drop of that luscious sauce.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Crisp veggies add a fresh crunch and vibrant color, balancing the richness of the pork. Think bell peppers and bok choy tossed in sesame oil for a delightful contrast.
Kimchi: This traditional Korean side offers a spicy, tangy kick that perfectly complements the sweet, savory pork. Its fermented flavor enhances the overall dining experience beautifully.
Pickled Radish: These tangy bites cut through the richness of the dish, refreshing your palate with every bite. Their crunch adds another great texture to the meal!
Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers dressed in rice vinegar provide a cooling contrast to the warm, spiced pork, making each forkful a delightful surprise.
Szechuan Noodles: Toss these noodles in a light soy sauce dressing for an Asian-inspired twist that pairs perfectly with the pork’s robust flavors.
Beer or Soju: A light lager or a smooth soju balances the meal; both have a refreshing quality that enhances the overall experience, particularly when savoring the rich flavors of the pork.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a velvety chocolate mousse that brings a delightful end to your meal, creating a sweet contrast to the savory main course.

Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs!

Spicy Kick: Add 1 tablespoon of Sriracha to the marinade for an extra layer of heat that wakes up your taste buds.
Apple Swap: Substitute the apples with pears for a unique twist; their sweetness will still shine through in the marinade.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in sliced bell peppers or carrots into the slow cooker for added nutrition and a pop of color in your dish.
Herb Infusion: Add a few sprigs of fresh cilantro or chopped green onions to the finished dish for a fresh herbal contrast that brightens flavors.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option that retains all the delicious savory notes.
Coconut Sugar: Swap the brown sugar with coconut sugar for a less processed sweetener that offers a hint of caramel flavor.
Citrus Zest: Grate some lime or orange zest into the marinade for a subtle citrusy brightness that balances the richness of the pork.
Rice Variations: Serve with jasmine or brown rice for different textures, or opt for cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb meal option.

Your culinary journey awaits—embrace these variations and discover new favorites with every bite!

Expert Tips for Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder

Perfect Marinade: Ensure the marinade is well-blended, mixing thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly over the pork for the best taste.
Searing Technique: Don’t rush the searing process; it creates a flavorful crust that enhances the dish. Evenly brown both sides for maximum flavor.
Slow Cooking Time: Resist the urge to open the slow cooker while cooking; this can disrupt the temperature and slow down the cooking process.
Shred Warm: Allow the pork to cool slightly before shredding, as warmer meat is easier to handle and results in more tender pieces.
Rice Choice: Use short-grain rice for a stickier texture that complements the pork shoulder, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Enjoy your journey making this unforgettable Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder!

How to Store and Freeze Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder

Fridge: Store leftover Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the sauce mixed with the meat for optimal freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shredded pork in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
Thawing: Always thaw frozen pork shoulder in the fridge overnight before reheating to ensure even warming.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the pork gently in a skillet over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to restore moisture.

Make Ahead Options

These Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the marinade—combining the soy sauce, brown sugar, chili garlic paste, garlic, ginger, and chopped apples—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can sear the pork shoulder the day before and store it in the fridge until ready to use. When you’re ready to serve, just place the marinated pork in the slow cooker and follow the cooking instructions. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you with minimal effort, just as flavorful and enticing as if you made it last minute!

Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder Recipe FAQs

What kind of apples should I use for the marinade?
Absolutely! I recommend using sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp apples. Their natural sweetness enhances the flavor of the marinade and balances the savory elements beautifully. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they blend well with the other ingredients.

How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?
Leftover Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder can be safely stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, make sure the sauce is well mixed with the meat. If you notice any discoloration or an off smell, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and discard it.

Can I freeze leftovers, and how?
Very! Freezing is a great option if you want to enjoy this dish later. Transfer the shredded pork and sauce into a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months!

What if my pork shoulder isn’t shredding easily?
No worries! If your pork isn’t shredding as easily as expected, it may need a bit more time to cook. Simply return it to the slow cooker, adding a splash of water if needed, and let it cook for an additional 1-2 hours on Low. The key is to ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of at least 190°F for the best shredding texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Absolutely! This Korean BBQ Pork Shoulder recipe contains soy sauce, which has gluten and can be an allergen for some people. For gluten-free options, look for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. If you’re serving this dish to pets, be cautious—onions, garlic, and excessive salt can be harmful to dogs.

How can I adjust the spiciness of this dish?
If you’re sensitive to heat, feel free to reduce the amount of chili garlic paste in the marinade. You can start with only 1 tablespoon and taste as you go, adding more if you desire an extra kick. If you accidentally made it too spicy, a dollop of sour cream or yogurt served alongside can help mellow out the flavors nicely.