Delicious Korean Sauces to Pair with Grilled Meats

Korean cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and vibrant dishes, especially when it comes to grilled meats. The right sauce can elevate your grilling experience, adding depth and richness that complements the smoky flavor of meats perfectly. Here’s a selection of delicious Korean sauces that you should consider for your next barbecue.

1. Gochujang Sauce

Gochujang is a staple in Korean cooking, made from red chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. This thick, red paste is known for its sweet and spicy flavor. To create a simple gochujang dipping sauce, mix equal parts gochujang with honey and water to achieve a smoother texture. This sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled beef and pork, enhancing their savory notes.

2. Soy Garlic Sauce

This sauce brings together the earthy flavor of soy sauce with the pungent aroma of garlic. To make soy garlic sauce, combine soy sauce, minced garlic, sugar, and sesame oil. For an extra kick, add a splash of rice vinegar. This versatile sauce works beautifully with meats like chicken and ribs, adding a savory glaze that caramelizes beautifully when grilled.

3. Ssamjang

Ssamjang is a thick and savory dipping sauce made from a blend of gochujang and doenjang (fermented soybean paste). It often includes garlic, sesame oil, and green onions. This sauce is traditionally used for lettuce wraps (ssam) and pairs excellently with grilled beef, particularly bulgogi. The robust flavor profile offers a wonderful contrast to the fresh wrap ingredients.

4. Yangnyeom Sauce

Yangnyeom sauce, or 'seasoned sauce', is a popular choice for marinating meats before grilling. This sauce typically combines gochujang, soy sauce, minced garlic, sugar, sesame oil, and pepper flakes. Marinating your meat in yangnyeom sauce before grilling infuses it with flavor and helps create a deliciously caramelized crust. This sauce is perfect for chicken wings and pork belly.

5. Sesame Soy Dressing

This light and nutty sauce is ideal for those looking for a more refreshing option. Made with soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame seeds, it adds a layer of flavor that brightens up grilled meats. It works particularly well with grilled vegetables and can also be drizzled over beef for a delightful finish.

6. Spicy Korean BBQ Marinade

Dive into the world of spicy marinades with this fantastic option. Combine gochujang, grated pear, sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes). Let your meat marinate for at least an hour before grilling for an explosion of flavor. This marinade is great for pork and beef, making them tender and packed with spicy goodness.

7. Sweet and Spicy Kimchi Sauce

For a more unique twist, use kimchi as a base for your sauce. Blend kimchi with some of its juice, a dash of gochujang, and a touch of sugar for a sweet and spicy dipping sauce. This kimchi sauce goes surprisingly well with grilled seafood, like shrimp or fish, enhancing their natural flavors.

When planning your next grilling session, consider these delicious Korean sauces to complement your meats. Each sauce not only enhances the flavor but also brings a touch of Korean culinary tradition to your table. Enjoy your grilling experience with these flavorful accompaniments!