Korean Gochujang Tacos with Crispy Pork

Name: Korean Gochujang Tacos with Crispy Pork
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb pork belly, sliced into thin strips; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Oil for frying; 2 tbsp gochujang; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; 8 small corn or flour tortillas; 1 cup shredded cabbage; 1/2 cup sliced green onions; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; Lime wedges for garnish

Highlighted under: World Table

Experience a fusion of flavors with these Korean Gochujang Tacos featuring crispy pork. A perfect blend of spice and crunch in every bite!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-16T23:58:18.632Z

This recipe combines the rich flavors of Korean cuisine with the fun, handheld nature of tacos. Crispy pork is slathered in a spicy gochujang sauce, wrapped in soft tortillas, and topped with fresh ingredients for a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.

        Why You Will Love These Tacos
        Spicy and savory gochujang sauce elevates the flavor profile
Crispy pork adds a satisfying crunch
Fresh toppings bring brightness and balance to each bite

      

A Perfect Blend of Flavor and Texture

These Korean Gochujang Tacos are a delightful twist on traditional tacos, seamlessly merging Korean flavors with a beloved Mexican staple. The star of the show is the gochujang, a fermented chili paste that brings a depth of flavor and a spicy kick to the dish. Combined with the savory notes of crispy pork, each bite is a delicious adventure for your taste buds.

The crispy pork adds an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft tortillas. This dish is not just about flavor; it’s also about texture. The combination of the tender meat and fresh toppings creates a symphony of sensations that make these tacos a standout meal. Each ingredient plays a role in crafting a taco that’s not only satisfying but also memorable.

Fresh Ingredients for Vibrant Flavor

Using fresh ingredients is key to elevating the taste of these Korean Gochujang Tacos. The shredded cabbage adds a refreshing crunch, while the sliced green onions and cilantro contribute a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the pork. These toppings not only add color to your tacos but also enhance the overall flavor profile, making each bite an explosion of taste.

Don't forget the lime wedges! A squeeze of lime just before you take a bite brightens the flavors and adds a zesty kick that ties everything together. This dish is all about harmony—bringing together spicy, savory, crunchy, and fresh elements to create a taco experience that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients

For the Crispy Pork

1 lb pork belly, sliced into thin strips
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Oil for frying

For the Gochujang Sauce

2 tbsp gochujang
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil

For Serving

8 small corn or flour tortillas
1 cup shredded cabbage
1/2 cup sliced green onions
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Lime wedges for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are ready before starting the cooking process for an efficient workflow.

Instructions

Prepare the Pork

In a large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Toss the pork slices in the mixture until well coated.

Fry the Pork

In a deep skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Fry the coated pork slices until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until smooth. Adjust sweetness to taste.

Assemble the Tacos

Warm the tortillas in a skillet. Place crispy pork on each tortilla, drizzle with gochujang sauce, and top with shredded cabbage, green onions, and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Enjoy your delicious Korean Gochujang Tacos with a refreshing beverage!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the pork in soy sauce and garlic before frying.

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Pork

To achieve perfectly crispy pork, it's essential to ensure that the oil is hot enough before frying. This prevents the pork from becoming greasy and ensures a golden, crunchy exterior. A temperature of around 350°F (175°C) is ideal for frying. Also, avoid overcrowding the skillet; fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature.

Another tip is to let the fried pork drain on paper towels for a few minutes. This step allows excess oil to be absorbed, keeping your pork crispy and delicious. The combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch in the coating creates a light and crispy texture that is simply irresistible.

Customizing Your Tacos

One of the best things about these tacos is their versatility. Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences. Avocado slices or diced tomatoes can add a creamy texture, while pickled vegetables can introduce an extra layer of flavor and tang. You can even spice up the gochujang sauce by adding more honey for sweetness or additional chili flakes for more heat.

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider substituting the pork with crispy tofu or jackfruit seasoned with the same gochujang sauce. This ensures that everyone can enjoy these delicious tacos, regardless of dietary preferences. Experiment with your favorite ingredients to create a taco that is uniquely yours!

Serving Suggestions

These Korean Gochujang Tacos are perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or as a fun dish for entertaining guests. Serve them alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or some spicy kimchi to complement the flavors. Pairing them with a light beer or a fruity cocktail can also enhance your dining experience.

Consider setting up a taco bar for gatherings, where guests can assemble their own tacos with a variety of toppings. This interactive dining experience not only makes the meal more enjoyable but also allows everyone to customize their tacos to their liking. It’s a great way to introduce your friends and family to the delightful fusion of Korean and Mexican cuisine!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of pork?

Yes, chicken thighs work well for this recipe and can be cooked in a similar manner.

→ What can I substitute for gochujang?

You can use sriracha or a mix of chili paste and a bit of sugar, but the flavor will vary.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour and tortillas, and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free.

→ Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes, the gochujang sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.