Description

This Creamy Korean Ssamjang Pasta recipe is a delightful fusion that transforms simple weeknight pasta into a savory and satisfying meal. Featuring the bold, umami-rich Korean ssamjang sauce paired with crispy pork belly and creamy Parmesan, this dish offers a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and rich flavors. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for those looking to elevate their dinner routine with a unique and flavorful twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

300 g Pasta (any type, cooked al dente)
200 g Pork Belly (can substitute with chicken or tofu for variation)
3 tbsp Ssamjang (Korean fermented soybean paste mixed with chili)
50 g Parmesan Cheese (or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option)
2 stalks Green Onions (thinly sliced; can substitute with chives or leeks)
1 Egg (optional for extra creaminess; flax egg works for vegan)

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water to help create the sauce.
Cook Pork Belly: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sliced pork belly for 5-7 minutes until it becomes browned and crispy. Remove the pork belly from the skillet and set aside for later.
Prepare Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the reserved pasta water. Stir in the ssamjang sauce, mixing thoroughly to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Allow this to cook for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Toss Pasta with Sauce and Pork: Add the drained pasta and cooked pork belly back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. If needed, add more reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s creaminess.
Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and sliced green onions. Serve hot for the best flavor experience.

Notes

For a vegetarian or vegan version, substitute pork belly with tofu and Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast.
The optional egg can be added for extra creaminess by whisking it in gently while tossing the pasta (ensure heat is low to avoid scrambling).
Adjust ssamjang quantity based on your spice preference as it can be quite pungent and spicy.
Reserve enough pasta water to tweak sauce consistency as needed—this adds starch and helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
Green onions add fresh, mild onion flavor, but feel free to use chives or leeks if preferred.