Exploring the Diverse Dipping Sauces of Korean BBQ

Building on our previous exploration of the unique experience of Korean BBQ, this blog post dives into the vibrant world of Korean BBQ sauces. We'll uncover the diverse ingredients, distinct flavors, and the ideal pairings of Korean BBQ sauces and dips.

Ssamjang is a staple in Korean BBQ, known for its complex flavor that complements virtually any grilled meat. This sauce is a fusion of two key Korean ingredients – doenjang (fermented soy paste) and gochujang (chili paste), and usually further enhanced with sesame oil, garlic, and green onions. The sweetness can be adjusted by adding sugar or honey.

• Flavor Profile: A blend of savory, salty, with a hint of spice and sweetness.
• Pairings: Universal in its appeal, ssamjang goes brilliantly with bulgogi, pork belly, and other grilled delights.

Doenjang, a fermented soybean paste, forms the base of this sauce. Its bold and sharp flavor, enhanced with sesame oil, garlic, and green onions, brings a depth of savory notes to the table.

• Flavor Profile: Predominantly savory and sharp with a deep umami character.
• Pairings: This sauce is particularly enjoyable with grilled pork, adding a robust flavor to the meat.

Gochujang's spicy and savory qualities are at the heart of this sauce. Combined with sugar, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil, it's simmered to perfection, marrying the flavors while achieving a desirable thickness.

• Flavor Profile: Spicy and savory with a subtle sweetness.
• Pairings: Ideal for chicken and duck, it adds a spicy twist that elevates these meats.

Chojang ingeniously blends gochujang with vinegar and a sweetener like sugar or honey, resulting in a sauce that's as versatile as it is delicious.

• Flavor Profile: A vibrant mix of spicy, sweet, and tangy.
• Pairings: Perfect for Korean beef carpaccio (육회/Yukhoe) and raw/cooked seafood.

This sauce start with a base of soy sauce, green onions, sesame seeds, and garlic, with variations adding sweetness or tanginess.

• Flavor Profile: Ranging from savory to a combination of sweet, savory, and tangy.
• Pairings: They work well with lighter meats like chicken or seafood and are great with beef brisket, savory pancakes (jeon), and fritters.

Sometimes, simplicity wins. This dip, combining sesame oil with salt and pepper, is a testament to that.

• Flavor Profile: Nutty, with a hint of sharpness from the pepper.
• Pairings: Excellent with simple grilled meats like beef brisket and pork belly, highlighting their natural flavors.

Combines the distinct taste of fermented shrimp with garlic, green onion, and sesame oil for a savory, slightly salty, and tangy sauce.

• Flavor Profile: Savory and slightly salty, with a fresh, slightly tangy undertone.
• Pairing: Its versatile nature pairs well with a variety of meats, particularly chicken and seafood, enhancing their natural flavors without overpowering them.

A bold blend of fermented shrimp, fiery gochujang, garlic, onions, a hint of sugar, and sesame oil.

• Flavor Profile: Bold and spicy, with a deep umami essence and a hint of sweetness.
• Pairing: This fiery dip is a perfect match for robust meats like pork belly or beef ribs, adding a zesty depth to each bite.