*Photo Source: Vogue Editorial, Youtube
For those interested in K-Food, today, I’m introducing a special and simple Dongpayuk (braised pork belly) recipe. While traditional Dongpayuk can be time-consuming and requires various ingredients, this version uses cola and Ssanghwa-tang, making it easier and faster to prepare. Let’s try it the way Cheolgabang Chef, the Black-and-White Chef, does it!
Ingredients:
The basic ingredients for making Dongpayuk are simple. Start by preparing 500g of pork shoulder, and cut it into four pieces to help the seasoning absorb better. Don't forget the onion, garlic, and green chili peppers. Instead of the usual spices, Ssanghwa-tang will provide that unique flavor. You’ll also need cola, water, soy sauce, oyster sauce, bay leaves, and bok choy for decoration later.
With just these ingredients, you’re all set to make a delicious Dongpayuk. Although simplified, this recipe delivers amazing taste.
First, heat some olive oil in a pan and sear the pork shoulder pieces until they are golden and crispy on the outside. The key is to fry them lightly without fully cooking them through. Then, pour in 250ml of cola and 250ml of water into the pan. You can even use Diet Coke, as it doesn’t significantly affect the flavor!
Next, add 100ml of Ssanghwa-tang, which is one of the main secrets of this recipe. Stir in 1 tablespoon each of soy sauce and oyster sauce. Add the onion, garlic, green chili peppers, and bay leaves, then cover the pan and let it simmer for 40 minutes. Afterward, reduce the heat and let it simmer for an additional 15 minutes on low heat for tender, flavorful pork. Check if the meat is infused with deep flavors!
In the final step, blanch the bok choy. Add a pinch of salt to boiling water and lightly cook the bok choy, then rinse it under cold water to maintain its crunchy texture. Now, plate the dish, placing the Dongpayuk in the center, and sprinkle with sesame seeds for decoration.
Thanks to Ssanghwa-tang, the unique taste of Dongpayuk is easily replicated, making it a dish you can enjoy every day. Serve it when guests come over, and you’ll impress them with this simple yet fantastic recipe. You too can share the charm of Korean-style Dongpayuk, just like Cheolgabang Chef does.
If you find making it at home a bit tricky, visit Doryang, Chef Lim Tae-hoon’s restaurant, which is known for its Dongpayuk. Located at 6, Jahamun-ro 6-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Doryang has already gained popularity, even being featured on singer Sung Si-kyung’s YouTube channel. Moreover, it has become more famous through the Black-and-White Chef show and is now one of the top spots for foodies, often selected in the “Top Restaurants to Wait in Line for.”
The main menu at Doryang includes Dongpayuk, Japchae rice, and Seafood Nurungji. The chef’s skillful use of herbal spices in the Dongpayuk creates a rich and tender dish that delights every diner. The Japchae rice offers a delightful savory flavor, while the Seafood Nurungji gives a crispy and intense seafood taste, completing the meal perfectly.
As its reputation suggests, once you taste the dishes at Doryang, it will be hard to forget. If you have time, I highly recommend visiting Doryang to experience Chef Lim Tae-hoon’s culinary artistry firsthand!
More Awesomek posts
Buldak Ramen Series Comparison & Review: Original, Carbonara, Curry, and Tteokbokki
Introduction to Kiss of Life Members and Hit Songs Music Videos
Black and White Chef | Black Spoon | Chef 'Dolyang' Restaurant Information and Location