Korean Meatloaf

Welcome to a culinary journey blending classic comfort food with vibrant Korean flavors! Our recipe today reinvents the traditional meatloaf by infusing it with gochujang, a Korean chili paste that adds a deep, savory spice to dishes. This Korean Meatloaf is not only tantalizingly tasty but also simple to prepare. Let’s dive into the recipe that combines juicy ground pork with a zesty gochujang glaze.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground pork – A perfect base offering a soft, rich texture.
• 1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs – For a lighter, fluffier loaf.
• 1 large onion, finely diced – Adds sweetness when cooked.
• 8 cloves garlic, crushed – A must for the best flavor foundation.
• 2 tbsp gochujang – This brings the unique Korean kick.
• 5 green onions, minced – For a touch of sharpness and color.
• 2 tsp kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten – Binds all the ingredients.
• 2 tsp vegetable oil – For cooking the onions and garlic.
• Optional: Sesame seeds for garnishing – Adds a nice crunch and presentation flair.

For the Gochujang Glaze:

• 3 tbsp apricot jam – Brings a sweet contrast.
• 2 tbsp gochujang – Doubles down on that deep, spicy flavor.
• 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar – Adds a bright acidity.
• 1 tbsp honey – For a touch of sweetness.
• 2 tsp soy sauce – Deepens the umami factor.
• 1 tsp sesame oil – Gives a nutty flavor.
• 1/2 tsp granulated garlic powder or 2 cloves garlic, minced – For that extra garlic punch.

Directions

1. Prepare Ingredients:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent, about 10 minutes.
   • Add garlic to the onions, cook for an additional 2 minutes, then set aside to cool in the refrigerator.
2. Mix the Meatloaf:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooled onion and garlic mixture with minced green onions, gochujang, eggs, and salt.
   • Add ground pork and panko bread crumbs to the bowl. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatloaf tender.
3. Bake the Meatloaf:
   • Transfer the mixture into a 9.5 inch by 5 inch loaf pan.
   • Bake in the preheated oven until the internal temperature reaches 140°F, approximately 40 minutes.
4. Prepare the Glaze:
   • While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the glaze by combining apricot jam, gochujang, rice wine vinegar, honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic in a bowl. Stir well.
5. Glaze and Finish Baking:
   • Once the meatloaf reaches 140°F, brush it generously with the glaze.
   • Return to the oven and continue baking until the internal temperature hits 160°F, about 10-15 minutes more.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing.
   • Garnish with sesame seeds if desired and serve hot.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Calories: 561 kcal per serving
• Servings: 6

This Korean Meatloaf is not just a dish but an experience, offering a delightful twist on a familiar favorite. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests at a gathering. The combination of sweet, spicy, and savory will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy your culinary creation!

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