Korean Gochujang Tacos with Crispy Pork

Name: Korean Gochujang Tacos with Crispy Pork
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb pork belly, sliced; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes); 2 tbsp corn starch; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 tbsp gochujang; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp minced garlic; 1 tsp sesame oil; 8 small corn tortillas; 1 cup shredded cabbage; 1/2 cup chopped cilantro; Lime wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Culture Inspired Recipes

Discover the delightful fusion of Korean flavors in these mouthwatering tacos, featuring crispy pork and a spicy gochujang sauce.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-17T00:50:18.806Z

This Korean Gochujang Tacos with Crispy Pork recipe combines the rich flavors of gochujang with tender, crispy pork. Perfect for taco night or a fun dinner party!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy and savory gochujang sauce adds a unique flavor twist
Crispy pork creates a satisfying texture in every bite
Easy to assemble for a fun and interactive meal

      

A Flavorful Fusion

Korean Gochujang Tacos are a delightful combination of traditional Korean flavors and the beloved taco format. The use of gochujang, a fermented chili paste, brings a depth of flavor that is both spicy and savory. This unique sauce elevates the humble taco to a whole new level, providing a perfect balance of heat and umami that tantalizes the taste buds.

Crispy pork belly serves as the star of this dish, offering a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft tortillas and fresh toppings. The marination process allows the pork to absorb all the delicious flavors, making each bite a mouthwatering experience. Whether you're a fan of Korean cuisine or simply looking for a new taco recipe, this dish is sure to impress.

The Perfect Party Dish

These Korean Gochujang Tacos are not just a meal; they are an experience. Perfect for gatherings, they encourage interaction as guests can assemble their own tacos. Set up a taco bar with all the components, and let everyone customize their tacos to their liking with the spicy gochujang sauce, crunchy cabbage, and fresh cilantro. It's an entertaining way to enjoy dinner and makes for a great conversation starter.

Additionally, the vibrant colors and enticing aromas of these tacos will draw guests in, making them a standout dish at any gathering. With their bold flavors and fun assembly process, they are guaranteed to be a hit at your next taco night or festive celebration.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your crispy pork, make sure to slice the pork belly evenly. This ensures that each piece cooks thoroughly and crisps up perfectly. You can also experiment with different cooking methods, like roasting or air frying, for a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor. Just be sure to monitor the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

When it comes to the gochujang sauce, feel free to adjust the levels of honey and vinegar according to your taste preferences. If you enjoy a sweeter sauce, add more honey, or if you prefer a tangier kick, increase the rice vinegar. This flexibility allows you to tailor the sauce to your liking, creating an even more personalized taco experience.

Ingredients

For the Crispy Pork

1 lb pork belly, sliced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
2 tbsp corn starch
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Gochujang Sauce

3 tbsp gochujang
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp sesame oil

For Assembly

8 small corn tortillas
1 cup shredded cabbage
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Pork

In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, gochugaru, salt, and pepper. Add the pork belly slices and marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Pork

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork belly and cook until crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let rest.

Make the Gochujang Sauce

In a small bowl, combine gochujang, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Mix well and set aside.

Assemble the Tacos

Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet. Layer crispy pork, shredded cabbage, and cilantro on each tortilla. Drizzle with gochujang sauce and serve with lime wedges.

Serving Suggestions

These Korean Gochujang Tacos pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a refreshing cucumber salad or pickled vegetables for a burst of crunch and tang. The coolness of the salad complements the spicy tacos perfectly, creating a well-rounded meal.

For a beverage pairing, try a light lager or a fruity soju cocktail. Both options can balance the heat from the gochujang sauce and enhance your overall dining experience.

Variations to Try

Feel free to switch up the protein in these tacos. Chicken thighs marinated in the same soy sauce mixture can provide a lighter option, while tofu can be used for a delicious vegetarian twist. Just ensure that the tofu is pressed and seasoned well to absorb the flavors.

You can also add toppings like avocado slices, diced radishes, or a drizzle of sour cream to enhance the flavor profile even further. Experimenting with different toppings can make each taco unique and cater to a variety of tastes.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover crispy pork or gochujang sauce, store them separately in airtight containers. The pork can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain its crispiness, while the sauce can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week.

When reheating, add a splash of water to the sauce if it thickens too much. This will ensure it remains pourable and flavorful. Enjoy your leftovers in a new meal, perhaps in a rice bowl or a salad, to reduce food waste and get creative in the kitchen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, chicken or beef can be used as alternatives to pork.

→ Is gochujang spicy?

Gochujang has a mild to moderate spice level, depending on the brand. Adjust to taste!

→ Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

While the pork is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and toppings in advance.

→ What can I serve with these tacos?

These tacos pair well with a side of rice or a fresh salad.