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Gochujang Pork Shoulder Steaks

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

These vibrant gochujang pork shoulder steaks bring the bold, fermented flavours of Korean cuisine to the dinner table. By using pork shoulder, the meat remains succulent and tender throughout the high-heat cooking process, providing a satisfying texture that stands up well to the spicy and slightly sweet marinade. The combination of garlic, fresh ginger, and hot pepper paste creates a deep umami profile that works beautifully when charred on a hot grill.

This diabetes-friendly main course is an excellent option for those looking for high-protein meals with punchy seasonings rather than heavy sauces. The marinade can be prepared up to twenty-four hours in advance, making it a practical choice for a midweek supper or a weekend barbecue. Serve the sliced pork alongside steamed greens or a crisp radish salad for a balanced, nutritious meal.

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Ingredients for Gochujang Pork Shoulder Steaks

  • 8 garlic cloves, peeled, crushed

  • 1 2" piece ginger, peeled, sliced

  • 120ml dry sake

  • 120ml gochujang (Korean hot pepper paste)

  • 120ml mirin (sweet Japanese rice wine)

  • 60ml vegetable oil, plus more for grilling

  • 675g skinless, boneless pork shoulder (Boston butt), sliced 3/4" thick

How to make Gochujang Pork Shoulder Steaks

Purée garlic, ginger, sake, gochujang, mirin, and 60ml oil in a blender. Set 60ml marinade aside; chill. Transfer remaining marinade to a large dish. Add pork; turn to coat. Chill, turning occasionally, at least 2 hours.

Prepare grill for medium-high heat; oil grate. Remove pork from marinade and grill, basting with reserved marinade, turning occasionally, and moving pork to a cooler area if flare-up occurs, until cooked to desired doneness, 8-10 minutes for medium-rare.

Transfer pork to a cutting board and let rest 5 minutes before thinly slicing against the grain.

Do ahead: Pork can be marinated 1 day ahead. Keep chilled.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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