BAKED SAMGYUPSAL

Try the Trending Dish in the Philippines: Baked Samgyupsal


Baked Samgyupsal


If you're a fan of Korean cuisine and love trying out the latest food trends, you’re in for a treat. The culinary world in the Philippines has recently been buzzing about Baked Samgyupsal, a delectable fusion dish that combines the best of Korean BBQ with the comforting warmth of a baked casserole. I decided to give it a try, and it was an instant hit with my family, quickly becoming one of our favorites. So, let’s dive into this trend and discover how you can recreate this mouth-watering dish at home.

The Allure of Baked Samgyupsal

Baked Samgyupsal brings together the savory goodness of grilled pork belly, the spicy and tangy flavors of kimchi, and the rich creaminess of melted cheese, all on a bed of steamed rice. It’s a dish that celebrates the harmony of textures and tastes, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, this dish is both accessible and incredibly satisfying.

What sets Baked Samgyupsal apart is its versatility. You can stick to the classic combination of plain rice and cheese, or you can elevate it with kimchi rice for an extra layer of flavor. And if you're a spice enthusiast, you can marinate the pork belly in a spicy gochujang sauce. In my version, I use kimchi and a variety of cheeses to create a rich and flavorful dish that never fails to impress.

Recipe Video:

 

The Sushi Bake Phenomenon

To understand the rise of Baked Samgyupsal, we need to look back at the sushi bake trend that took Metro Manila by storm during the quarantine period. Sushi bake is a deconstructed sushi dish, featuring layers of sushi ingredients like salmon, tuna, and kani, mixed with a spicy, tangy sauce and baked over Japanese rice. It’s served by scooping out portions and wrapping them in nori sheets, creating a mini taco-like experience.

The popularity of sushi bake paved the way for other baked variations, such as the West Asia-inspired Shawarma Bake and the nostalgic SPAM Bake. Now, Korean cuisine enthusiasts have something new to get excited about with Baked Samgyupsal.

How to Make Baked Samgyupsal

Making Baked Samgyupsal at home is simpler than you might think. Here’s a recipe using the ingredients I love:

Ingredients:

  • 500 grams pork belly, thinly sliced
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon spring onion, chopped
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups kimchi, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 3 cups steamed rice
  • 3 slices white cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup orange cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
  • Black and white sesame seeds
  • Nori (seaweed sheets)
  • Lettuce leaves

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Thinly slice the pork belly and chop the kimchi. Steam the rice and set it aside. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the Eggs: Beat the eggs with a pinch of sea salt and cook them in a pan as a thin omelette. Once cooked, cut the omelette into strips and set aside.
  3. Marinate the Pork Belly: In a bowl, mix gochujang, sesame oil, and a pinch of sea salt. Add the thinly sliced pork belly, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  4. Grill the Pork Belly: Heat a grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated pork belly until it is nicely charred and cooked through. Set aside.
  5. Assemble the Dish: In a baking dish, spread the steamed rice evenly. Layer the chopped kimchi over the rice. Place the grilled pork belly and omelette strips on top.
  6. Add the Cheese: Layer the slices of white cheddar cheese over the pork belly and omelette. Sprinkle the grated orange cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
  7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with black and white sesame seeds and chopped spring onions. Serve hot with nori sheets and lettuce leaves on the side.

Final Thoughts

Baked Samgyupsal is more than just a trend; it’s a celebration of culinary creativity. By combining the familiar flavors of Korean BBQ with the comforting elements of a baked dish, it offers a unique and delicious dining experience. Give it a try and see why this dish has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of many. Enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors and textures, and bring a touch of Korean cuisine to your home today!


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