A Taste of Seoul at Your Table: Korean BBQ Pork Chops with Kimchi Slaw

Welcome to a culinary journey that won't require you to pack a bag or grab your passport. Today, we're bringing the vibrant streets of Seoul right to your kitchen with our Korean BBQ Pork Chops paired with a tangy Kimchi Slaw. Whether you're new to Korean cuisine or a seasoned fan, this dish is bound to tickle your taste buds and impress your dining companions.

My love affair with Korean food began a few years ago after a memorable meal at a tiny, bustling restaurant in the heart of New York’s Koreatown. That night, every dish was a revelation, but it was the bold, balanced flavors of their Korean BBQ that stayed with me. Inspired, I started experimenting at home, which leads us to this delightful recipe. It's beginner-friendly, wildly flavorful, and perfect for any day of the week.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Korean BBQ is known for its compelling mix of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, and these pork chops deliver just that. Paired with kimchi slaw, this dish offers a perfect balance of meaty richness cut through with crisp, fermented veggies. Here are a few reasons why this recipe will become a go-to in your home:

  • Simple Ingredients: Everything you need can be found at most grocery stores or local Asian markets.
  • Quick Prep Time: In about 30 minutes, you can have a meal that’s sure to impress.
  • Versatile: This dish can serve as a weeknight dinner, part of a themed meal, or the star at your next gathering.

Ingredients

For the Korean BBQ Pork Chops:

  • 4 pork chops, about 1-inch thick
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 pear, grated (for natural sweetness and tenderizing)
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Kimchi Slaw:

  • 2 cups of pre-made kimchi, chopped
  • 1/4 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Let’s start with marinating the pork chops — the secret to imbuing them with that irresistible Korean BBQ flavor:

  1. Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, gochujang, sesame oil, grated pear, and green onions in a bowl. Stir until well combined.
  2. Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. Place them in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure all surfaces are nicely coated.
  3. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour, though overnight is best for maximum flavor.

While the pork is marinating, you can prepare the kimchi slaw:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped kimchi, sliced cabbage, julienned carrot, and sliced onion.
  2. Mix rice vinegar and sugar in a small bowl until the sugar dissolves, then pour it over the slaw. Toss everything together until well mixed. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  3. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the slaw before serving for an extra touch of flavor and crunch.

Now, back to the pork chops:

  1. Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade, shaking off any excess (but don’t wipe them clean).
  2. Grill each chop for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (medium-rare) to 160°F (medium). The sugars in the marinade should create a beautiful charred effect.
  3. Let the chops rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps redistribute the juices within the meat.

Serve the Korean BBQ pork chops hot off the grill with a side of your refreshing kimchi slaw. The fiery richness of the pork balanced by the cool, tangy slaw makes for a perfect meal, any night of the week.

Parting Thoughts

There's something truly magical about transforming simple ingredients into a meal that's bursting with flavor. Korean BBQ Pork Chops with Kimchi Slaw is more than just a dish; it's a small adventure in your culinary journey. It brings a piece of Korean tradition into your home and offers a tasty glimpse into the country's rich, vibrant culture. Dive in, enjoy the process, and feed not just your stomach but also your soul.

Feel inspired? Plate up, snap a photo, and share your masterpiece with us! Your kitchen, after all, is the best place to start globe-trotting.