Pork and vegetables in korean black bean sauce

Chunjang is a fermented black bean paste that is iconic in Korean cuisine. Long associated with everyday comfort food, it is best known as the key ingredient in jajangmyeon, a hugely popular noodle dish in South Korea.

Traditionally, chunjang is always sautéed in oil before being used. This essential step softens its natural bitterness and brings out its deep, complex aromas.

Fun fact: In Korea, jajangmyeon (and its rice-based saucy variations) is the most commonly ordered dish on moving day, as it symbolizes a fresh start and is easy to share.

In this homemade version, chunjang is transformed into a rich, savory pork and vegetable sauce, served with white rice for a comforting, flavorful, and perfectly balanced meal.

Recipe (serves 6)

Ingredients

• 600 g pork (neck or belly), cut into small cubes

• 3 tbsp chunjang

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 1 onion, roughly chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 green onion, thinly sliced

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 1 orange bell pepper, diced

• 1 small broccoli, cut into florets

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp oyster sauce

• 1 tsp sugar

• 500 ml water or light stock

• 1–2 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

Step 1: The Pork

In a wok, sauté the pork cubes over medium heat until lightly browned. The meat should develop good color.

Step 2: The Chunjang Sauce

Add the chunjang and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly. Add the soy sauce and oyster sauce, then cook for another 2–3 minutes before adding the water or stock.

Blanch the broccoli separately.

Add the onion, bell peppers, and sugar to the sauce. Cook over high heat for 2 minutes, then add the cornstarch dissolved in a little water (about 3–4 tablespoons).

Add the broccoli, mix well, and continue cooking for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Finish by sprinkling with sliced green onion.

It’s ready! Serve hot with white rice and enjoy.

Tip: This dish tastes even better the next day, once the sauce has had time to develop its full depth and complexity.