This gochujang pork recipe is a delightful fusion of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The rich and complex taste of gochujang pairs beautifully with the tender vegan pork substitute, creating a dish that is both satisfying and full of umami.
If you're not familiar with gochujang, it's a Korean fermented chili paste that adds a unique depth of flavor to dishes. You can find it in the international aisle of most supermarkets or at Asian grocery stores. The vegan pork substitute might also be new to some; look for it in the refrigerated or frozen section where plant-based proteins are sold.
Ingredients for Gochujang Pork Recipe
Gochujang: A Korean fermented chili paste that provides a spicy and savory flavor.
Soy sauce: Adds a salty and umami taste to the dish.
Rice vinegar: Provides a tangy acidity to balance the flavors.
Maple syrup: Adds a touch of sweetness to the sauce.
Vegan pork substitute: A plant-based protein that mimics the texture and taste of pork.
Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic flavor.
Sesame oil: A fragrant oil that enhances the overall taste.
Sesame seeds: Adds a nutty flavor and a bit of crunch.
Green onions: Provides a fresh and mild onion flavor.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When sautéing the garlic in sesame oil, make sure to keep the heat at medium to avoid burning. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the dish. Stir constantly and remove from heat as soon as it turns golden brown.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
Gochujang - Substitute with sriracha mixed with miso paste: This combination mimics the spicy and umami flavors of gochujang.
Soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that provides a similar salty and savory flavor.
Rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and can be used in the same quantity.
Maple syrup - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar is a vegan sweetener that has a similar consistency and sweetness level.
Vegan pork substitute - Substitute with jackfruit: Jackfruit has a meat-like texture and absorbs flavors well, making it a great alternative.
Garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is not available, though fresh is preferred for better flavor.
Sesame oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a neutral oil, though it lacks the nutty flavor of sesame oil.
Sesame seeds - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds provide a similar crunch and nutritional benefits.
Green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
How to Store or Freeze This Dish
Allow the vegan pork substitute to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
Transfer the cooled gochujang pork into an airtight container. For best results, use a container that fits the amount of food snugly to minimize air exposure.
Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the dish within 3-4 days. The flavors will meld together beautifully, making it even more delicious.
For longer storage, place the gochujang pork in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of its freshness. The gochujang pork can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the gochujang pork in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the texture and flavor.
Reheat the dish in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if needed to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the gochujang pork in the microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Garnish with fresh green onions and sesame seeds just before serving to add a burst of freshness and crunch.
How to Reheat Leftovers
For a quick and easy method, use a microwave. Place the leftover gochujang pork in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
To maintain the texture and flavor, reheat on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or vegetable broth to a pan over medium heat. Add the leftover vegan pork substitute and stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
For a crispy finish, use an oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftovers on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, removing the foil in the last 5 minutes to crisp up the edges.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the gochujang pork in the basket and heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.
For a steam method, use a steamer basket. Place the leftovers in the basket over boiling water, cover, and steam for about 5 minutes or until heated through. This method helps retain moisture.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and maple syrup.
Pan: Used to cook the vegan pork substitute and to sauté the garlic.
Spatula: Useful for stirring the ingredients in the pan and ensuring even cooking.
Measuring cups: Needed to measure out the gochujang, soy sauce, and maple syrup accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the rice vinegar and sesame oil.
Garlic press: Handy for mincing the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.
Knife: Essential for chopping the green onions.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the green onions and mincing the garlic.
Serving dish: Used to present the finished dish, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Tongs: Useful for handling the vegan pork substitute while cooking.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Prepare the sauce ahead: Mix the gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and maple syrup in advance and store it in the fridge.
Pre-minced garlic: Use pre-minced garlic to save time on chopping.
Use pre-cooked vegan pork: Opt for pre-cooked vegan pork substitute to cut down on cooking time.
Chop green onions in bulk: Chop a bunch of green onions at once and store them in an airtight container.
One-pan cooking: Use a large pan to cook everything together, reducing the number of dishes to wash.
Gochujang Pork Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Gochujang
- 2 tablespoon Soy Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar
- 2 tablespoon Maple Syrup
- 1 lb Vegan Pork Substitute
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil
- 1 teaspoon Sesame Seeds
- 2 stalks Green Onions, chopped
Instructions
- 1. In a mixing bowl, combine gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and maple syrup.
- 2. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- 3. Add vegan pork substitute to the pan and cook until browned.
- 4. Pour the gochujang mixture over the vegan pork and stir well. Cook for another 5-10 minutes.
- 5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts
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