Korean Food Series (1) – Samgyeopsal (Grilled Pork Belly) 🥓🔥

Picture: Unsplash의Subagus Indra

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📍 Welcome to the Korean Food Series!

In this series, we introduce must-try iconic Korean dishes.
Our first feature is the beloved Korean BBQ classic—Samgyeopsal.

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🥩 What is Samgyeopsal?

Samgyeopsal is thick slices of pork belly grilled over charcoal or a hot pan.
It’s famous for its perfect balance of juicy fat and tender meat, delivering a rich yet clean flavor.
In Korea, friends, families, and coworkers gather around the grill to cook and share this delicious meal together.

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📍 How to Eat Samgyeopsal – Step by Step

1. Grill the Meat Properly
   Place the pork belly on the grill and cook until it’s crispy on the outside but still juicy inside. Avoid overcooking as it can make the meat tough. Many restaurants have staff who will grill the meat for you or help, so don’t hesitate to ask for assistance!

2. Prepare Your Wrap (Ssam)
   Take a fresh lettuce or sesame leaf and place a slice of the grilled pork belly on it.
   Add some ssamjang (a savory and spicy dipping sauce), sliced garlic, chili peppers, green onion salad, or other condiments according to your taste.

3. Wrap It Up
   Fold the leaf around the meat and condiments to create a neat bite-sized wrap.
   Keep the size manageable to enjoy it comfortably.

4. Enjoy With Side Dishes (Banchan)
   Accompany your wrap with various side dishes such as kimchi, grilled garlic, and pickled radish.
   Eating with a bowl of steamed rice makes the meal even more satisfying.

5. Drink Pairing
   Samgyeopsal pairs perfectly with traditional Korean soju or beer.

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💡 Pro Tip!

If you’re new to eating samgyeopsal or unsure about how to enjoy it best, ask the restaurant owner or staff for advice.
Korean restaurants are usually very friendly and happy to show you how to grill the meat properly and suggest popular dipping combinations, making your experience even better!

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📍 Best Samgyeopsal Spots in Seoul

1. Uraeok (을락)

   • Address: 24-4 Euljiro 3(sam)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul

2. Mapo Jinjja Wonjo Jip (마포진짜원조집)

   • Address: 15 Dongmak-ro 6-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul

3. Hanilkwan (한일관)

   • Address: 12 Eulji-ro 5-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

4. Palsaik Samgyeopsal (팔색삼겹살)

   • Address: 44, Mapo-daero, Mapo-gu, Seoul

5. Jangsu Samgyeopsal (장수삼겹살)

   • Address: 27 Nonhyeon-ro 175-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Seoul has a vibrant food scene with countless samgyeopsal restaurants ranging from traditional to modern styles, making it easy to find a great place anywhere in the city.
Keep in mind, samgyeopsal restaurants are plentiful throughout Seoul, so searching near your travel destination or accommodation is always a great option!

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📍 Top Samgyeopsal Restaurants in Incheon

1. Chorok Samgyeopsal (초록삼겹살)

   • Address: 59 Bupyeong-daero, Bupyeong-gu, Incheon

2. Byeokje Galbi (벽제갈비)

   • Address: 123 Gajeong-ro, Namdong-gu, Incheon

3. Incheon Samgyeopsal Street (인천 삼겹살 골목)

   • Location: Near Bupyeong Station, Bupyeong-gu, Incheon

4. Daegok Samgyeopsal (대곡삼겹살)

   • Address: 17 Daegok-ro, Seo-gu, Incheon

5. Ganghwa Samgyeopsal (강화삼겹살)

   • Address: Ganghwa-gun, Incheon (various locations)

Incheon boasts many samgyeopsal spots especially near markets and popular dining streets, offering both traditional and innovative pork belly experiences.
Remember, samgyeopsal is widely available in Incheon, so checking for places close to where you are staying or sightseeing is always recommended!

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📍 Recommended Samgyeopsal Places in Gyeonggi Province

1. Paju Hanok Village Samgyeopsal (파주 한옥마을 삼겹살)

   • Address: 45 Paju Hanok Village, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do

2. Suwon BBQ Street (수원 고기거리)

   • Location: Near Suwon Station, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do

3. Ilsan Pork Village (일산 돼지마을)

   • Address: 12 Baekseok-dong, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do

4. Goyang Samgyeopsal House (고양 삼겹살집)

   • Address: 58 Daehwa-dong, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do

5. Yongin Samgyeopsal Plaza (용인 삼겹살 플라자)

   • Address: 22 Yongin-ro, Suji-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do

Gyeonggi-do has a rich variety of samgyeopsal restaurants scattered throughout the province, from bustling cities to quieter towns, catering to all tastes and budgets.
No matter where you travel in Gyeonggi Province, you’ll find plenty of samgyeopsal places—so searching near your travel spots or hotels is a smart way to discover delicious options!

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🍶 Perfect Drinks with Samgyeopsal

• Soju (Korean distilled liquor)

• Beer

• ‘Somaek’ (a popular mix of soju and beer)

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📝 Final Tips

• Samgyeopsal is a popular dinner choice in Korea; some places might require reservations during busy hours.

• Managing the grill heat is key to preventing burning the meat.

• Many restaurants have staff who will help grill the meat, so don’t hesitate to ask if you’re new to Korean BBQ!

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Thanks for joining us on the first delicious stop in the Korean Food Series!
Next, we’ll explore another iconic Korean dish. Stay tuned and get ready to taste more of Korea! 🇰🇷✨