Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi is not just a meal; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds and wraps you in a cozy hug of flavor. Imagine tender pork marinated in a symphony of spicy, sweet, and savory notes, all coming together to create a dish that will make even your most stubborn dinner guest say “wow.” This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress at the weekend barbecue.
When I first discovered this gem of a recipe, I was knee-deep in takeout menus, too weary to cook after a long day. But after one whiff of the sizzling pork in my Instant Pot, I was transported! The aroma wafted through my kitchen like an invitation to a culinary fiesta. Now, it’s become my go-to dish for everything from family gatherings to solo Netflix binges. Let me promise you—this flavor bomb will have you hitting repeat!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi delivers big on flavor while keeping prep time minimal.
- The sweet and spicy balance makes it a crowd favorite for any occasion.
- Visually stunning with its vibrant colors, this dish is sure to impress at dinner parties.
- Perfectly versatile, serve it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or as part of a delicious taco night.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pork Shoulder: A well-marbled cut is ideal as it becomes incredibly tender when cooked.
- Gochujang (Korean Chili Paste): This adds the signature heat and depth of flavor that makes bulgogi special.
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still packing in that umami punch.
- Brown Sugar: It balances the heat from the gochujang perfectly and adds a caramelized sweetness.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is non-negotiable; its pungent aroma enhances the overall flavor.
- Sesame Oil: Adds nuttiness and richness that complements the pork beautifully.
For Garnishing:
- Sliced Green Onions: Sprinkle these on top for freshness and color.
- Sesame Seeds: These add crunch and a nutty flavor that takes the dish over the top.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Pork
Start by slicing your pork shoulder into thin strips. In a large bowl, combine gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Toss the pork strips in this flavorful marinade until they are evenly coated. Let them soak up those flavors for at least 30 minutes—longer if possible.
Step 2: Sauté the Marinade
Turn your Instant Pot onto sauté mode. Once hot, add the marinated pork along with all the marinade into the pot. Sauté for about five minutes until it’s fragrant and slightly caramelized. Ahhh! Your kitchen will smell divine.
Step 3: Pressure Cook
Now comes the magic part! Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for about 15 minutes. Yes, that’s right—just sit back while your device works its magic.
Step 4: Quick Release
Once cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release by moving the valve away from sealing. Beware of steam; it’s like Mother Nature’s way of reminding you who’s boss.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Switch back to sauté mode once more and let your delicious bulgogi simmer uncovered for about five minutes until the sauce thickens up nicely.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Transfer your spicy Korean pork bulgogi onto plates or bowls! Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for that Instagram-worthy finish that’ll have everyone asking you for your secret.
Enjoy with steaming white rice or tucked into lettuce leaves for an extra crunchy bite that’ll send you straight into foodie heaven!
And there you have it—the perfect blend of spice and sweetness captured in every single bite of this Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi! Whether it’s on Taco Tuesday or just a cozy Friday night in front of Netflix with some takeout containers repurposed as serving dishes (who needs fancy?), this dish has got your back!
You Must Know
- This spicy Korean pork bulgogi is not just a delightful explosion of flavors; it’s also a meal that makes weeknight dinners feel festive.
- You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys this culinary adventure.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with your Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi, start by marinating the pork for at least 30 minutes. Sear the meat using the sauté function for a rich flavor, then cook on high pressure with the marinade to lock in all those delicious juices.
Add Your Touch
Make this recipe your own by swapping out ingredients based on what you have. Try adding bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies, or switch up the soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free version. Customize the heat by adjusting the gochujang level!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply pop it back into the Instant Pot on sauté mode until warmed through, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry and need instant gratification!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For more inspiration, check out this spicy chorizo sweet potato chili recipe.1.
- Always marinate your pork overnight for maximum flavor infusion; it makes a world of difference in tenderness and taste.2.
- Avoid overcooking; once the Instant Pot beeps, let it naturally release pressure to keep your pork juicy and tender.3.
- Serve with fresh greens or rice to balance out the spiciness and create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.
I remember one time when I made this dish for a family gathering—everyone was raving about how tender and flavorful it turned out! My cousin even asked for a second helping, which is always a good sign!
FAQs:
What is Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi?
Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi is a flavorful dish made with thinly sliced pork marinated in a spicy and sweet sauce. The use of the Instant Pot allows for quick cooking while preserving the rich flavors of traditional bulgogi. teriyaki miso cod dish This recipe combines soy sauce, gochujang (Korean chili paste), garlic, and sesame oil, creating a delicious meal that can be served over rice or with lettuce wraps. For more inspiration, check out this hot honey chicken recipe recipe.
How long does it take to make Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi?
Making Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes time for marinating the pork, which can be done quickly while preparing the other ingredients. quick egg roll in a bowl Once everything is in the Instant Pot, it cooks under high pressure for just 10 minutes, making it a fast and convenient option for busy weeknights.
Can I customize the spice level in Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi?
Yes, you can easily customize the spice level of your Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of gochujang or add more sugar to balance the heat. For those who love extra spice, consider adding red pepper flakes or increasing the gochujang amount. instant pot stuffed pepper soup This flexibility allows everyone to enjoy this delicious dish according to their taste preferences.
What should I serve with Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi?
Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. You can also serve it with fresh vegetables or lettuce leaves for wrapping. Kimchi and pickled vegetables are excellent side dishes that complement the flavors of bulgogi beautifully. Feel free to experiment with different sides based on your personal preference.
Conclusion for Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi:
In summary, Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi delivers an authentic taste of Korea in just 30 minutes. This dish features tender pork marinated in a spicy-sweet sauce that satisfies any craving. Customizable spice levels allow you to tailor it to your liking, making it enjoyable for everyone at the table. Pair it with rice or fresh vegetables for a complete meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.
Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi
Instant Pot Spicy Korean Pork Bulgogi is a flavor-packed dish that brings the bold tastes of Korea to your table in just 30 minutes. With tender pork marinated in a perfect balance of spicy gochujang, savory soy sauce, and sweet brown sugar, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests at gatherings. Serve it over rice or wrapped in lettuce for a deliciously satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs pork shoulder, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- For Garnishing: 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- 1. Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, mix gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil. Toss in pork strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- 2. Sauté the Marinade: Set Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add marinated pork and cook for about 5 minutes until fragrant.
- 3. Pressure Cook: Secure lid and set to high pressure for 15 minutes.
- 4. Quick Release: Carefully release steam by moving the valve away from sealing.
- 5. Thicken the Sauce: Switch back to sauté mode and simmer uncovered for about 5 minutes until sauce thickens.
- 6. Serve Hot: Plate the bulgogi and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - For added vegetables, consider including bell peppers or zucchini. - Adjust spice levels by varying the amount of gochujang according to your preference.




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