Introduction to Korean BBQ Pork Belly Sliders with Kimchi Mayo
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that life can get pretty hectic, especially when juggling family, work, and everything in between. That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Korean BBQ Pork Belly Sliders with Kimchi Mayo. These little bites of heaven are not only delicious but also a quick solution for those busy weeknights when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try these sliders, they’ll become a go-to favorite in your home!
Why You’ll Love This Korean BBQ Pork Belly Sliders with Kimchi Mayo
Let’s be honest—who doesn’t love a meal that’s both quick and packed with flavor? These Korean BBQ Pork Belly Sliders with Kimchi Mayo are a breeze to whip up, making them perfect for busy evenings. The combination of tender, crispy pork belly and zesty kimchi mayo creates a taste explosion that will have your family begging for seconds. Plus, they’re fun to eat, making dinner feel like a special occasion!
Ingredients for Korean BBQ Pork Belly Sliders with Kimchi Mayo
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For these Korean BBQ Pork Belly Sliders with Kimchi Mayo, you’ll need a mix of savory and spicy elements that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pork Belly: The star of the show! Diced into 1-inch pieces, pork belly is rich and flavorful, giving the sliders that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Soy Sauce: This adds a salty umami kick that enhances the pork’s natural flavors. Look for low-sodium options if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the savory elements, creating a delicious caramelization when cooked.
- Sesame Oil: This fragrant oil brings a nutty depth to the dish. Just a little goes a long way!
- Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor that’s hard to resist. You can use pre-minced garlic for convenience, but fresh is always best!
- Grated Ginger: A hint of ginger gives a warm, spicy note that complements the pork beautifully.
- Black Pepper: A simple seasoning that adds a bit of heat. Feel free to adjust to your taste!
- Vegetable Oil: Used for cooking, this oil helps achieve that perfect crispy texture on the pork belly. You can substitute with olive oil if you prefer.
- Mini Burger Buns: These are the perfect size for sliders! Look for soft, fluffy buns that can hold all the delicious fillings.
- Kimchi: This fermented Korean dish adds a spicy, tangy crunch to the sliders. You can find it in most grocery stores or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Mayonnaise: A creamy base for the kimchi mayo, it helps mellow out the spice from the kimchi.
- Rice Vinegar: This adds a touch of acidity to the kimchi mayo, brightening up the flavors.
- Sriracha (optional): If you like it hot, add a dash of sriracha to the kimchi mayo for an extra kick!
- Sliced Green Onions: These are for garnish, adding a fresh crunch and a pop of color to your sliders.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Korean BBQ Pork Belly Sliders with Kimchi Mayo
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Korean BBQ Pork Belly Sliders with Kimchi Mayo! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Marinate the Pork Belly
First things first, let’s get that pork belly marinating! In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper. This mixture is where the magic happens, infusing the pork with incredible flavor. Once combined, add the diced pork belly, making sure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour. If you have time, letting it sit overnight will deepen the flavors even more. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step 2: Cook the Pork Belly
After the pork has marinated, it’s time to cook! Heat a grill or a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. If you’re using a skillet, add a splash of vegetable oil to help achieve that crispy texture. Once hot, place the marinated pork belly pieces on the grill or skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them; you want that perfect balance of crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 3: Prepare the Kimchi Mayo
While the pork belly is sizzling away, let’s whip up the kimchi mayo! In a separate bowl, combine the finely chopped kimchi, mayonnaise, rice vinegar, and sriracha if you’re feeling adventurous. Mix everything together until smooth. This creamy, spicy sauce is the perfect complement to the rich pork belly, adding a zesty kick that elevates the sliders to a whole new level. Plus, it’s super easy to make—just a few minutes and you’re done!
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
Now comes the fun part—assembling your sliders! Start by placing a piece of the crispy pork belly on each mini burger bun. Don’t be shy; pile it on! Next, add a generous spoonful of the kimchi mayo on top. Finally, sprinkle some sliced green onions for that fresh crunch and a pop of color. Serve these sliders warm, and watch as your family dives in with delight. They’re not just sliders; they’re a flavor-packed experience!
Tips for Success
- Marinate the pork belly overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan or grill; cook in batches if necessary for even crispiness.
- Feel free to customize the kimchi mayo with your favorite spices or herbs.
- Serve sliders immediately for the best texture and taste!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl: For marinating the pork. A large bowl works best.
- Grill or Non-Stick Skillet: Essential for cooking the pork belly. A cast-iron skillet is a great alternative!
- Whisk: To mix the marinade and kimchi mayo. A fork can do the job too!
- Spatula: For flipping the pork belly. A wooden spoon works in a pinch.
- Serving Platter: To present your sliders. Any large plate will do!
Variations
- Chicken Thigh Sliders: Swap out the pork belly for marinated grilled chicken thighs for a lighter option that still packs a punch!
- Vegetarian Delight: Use marinated tofu or tempeh instead of pork for a delicious vegetarian alternative that’s just as satisfying.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra sriracha or fresh jalapeño slices to the kimchi mayo for those who crave a bit more heat.
- Gluten-Free Buns: Opt for gluten-free mini burger buns to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
- Asian Slaw: Top the sliders with a crunchy Asian slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing for added texture and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair your sliders with crispy sweet potato fries or a refreshing cucumber salad for a delightful contrast.
- Drinks: Serve with a chilled Asian lager or a fruity iced tea to complement the flavors.
- Presentation: Arrange sliders on a wooden board with colorful garnishes for a stunning display that will impress your guests!
FAQs about Korean BBQ Pork Belly Sliders with Kimchi Mayo
Got questions about these Korean BBQ Pork Belly Sliders with Kimchi Mayo? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with my answers to help you out.
1. Can I make the kimchi mayo ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the kimchi mayo a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just give it a good stir before using!
2. What if I can’t find pork belly?
No worries! If pork belly isn’t available, you can substitute it with boneless chicken thighs or even marinated tofu for a vegetarian option. Both alternatives will still deliver delicious results in your Korean BBQ Pork Belly Sliders with Kimchi Mayo.
3. How spicy are these sliders?
The spice level really depends on how much kimchi and sriracha you use in the mayo. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the sriracha or skip it altogether. The kimchi adds a nice tang without being overwhelmingly spicy!
4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork belly! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat it in a skillet for that crispy texture.
5. What can I serve with these sliders?
These sliders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or even some pickled vegetables for a delightful contrast. Your family will love the combination!
Final Thoughts
Making Korean BBQ Pork Belly Sliders with Kimchi Mayo is more than just cooking; it’s about creating joyful moments around the dinner table. The delightful combination of crispy pork and zesty kimchi mayo brings a burst of flavor that can turn an ordinary weeknight into a special occasion. Plus, these sliders are so easy to prepare, even on your busiest days! I hope you enjoy every bite and share them with your loved ones. Trust me, once you serve these sliders, they’ll be asking for them again and again. Happy cooking!
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Korean BBQ Pork Belly Sliders with Kimchi Mayo are irresistible!
Korean BBQ Pork Belly Sliders with Kimchi Mayo are irresistible!
- Total Time: 1 hour 8 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork belly, diced into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 12 mini burger buns
- 1 cup kimchi, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
- Sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper. Add the diced pork belly to the mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Heat a grill or a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, adding vegetable oil if using a skillet.
- Take the marinated pork belly out of the refrigerator and place it on the grill or skillet. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until the pork is golden brown and crispy.
- While the pork is cooking, prepare the spicy kimchi sauce by combining the chopped kimchi, mayonnaise, rice vinegar, and sriracha in a separate bowl. Mix well until smooth.
- Once the pork belly is perfectly cooked, start assembling the sliders by placing a piece of pork belly on each mini bun. Add a generous spoonful of the spicy kimchi sauce on top and finish with a sprinkle of sliced green onions.
- Serve the sliders warm and relish the delightful flavors!
Notes
- For an extra kick, increase the amount of sriracha in the kimchi sauce or add fresh jalapeño slices to the sliders.
- Feel free to swap out the pork belly for grilled chicken thighs or marinated tofu for a lighter alternative.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling/Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Korean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg