Korean Braised Pork Ribs, known as “Deungppyeo Ganjang Jjim” in Korean, represents one of the most beloved traditional Korean recipes that transforms humble pork backbone into an incredibly tender and flavorful Korean comfort food. This authentic soy sauce braised pork recipe combines the unexpected sweetness of cola with traditional Korean seasonings to create a dish that’s both familiar and uniquely Korean.
What Makes This Korean Pork Backbone Stew Special
This Korean jjim recipe stands out from other braised dishes due to its unique use of cola as a tenderizing agent[1][5]. The cola not only helps break down the tough fibers in the pork backbone but also adds a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the savory soy sauce marinade. This traditional Korean recipe has been passed down through generations and represents the essence of Korean comfort food.
Ingredients for Authentic Korean Braised Pork Ribs (Serves 2)
Main Ingredients
- 2.2 lbs (1kg) pork backbone ribs
- 1 oz (25g) fresh ginger
- 5 bay leaves
- ½ tablespoon whole black peppercorns
- 2 cups (400ml) cola
- 5 oz (150g) potatoes, chunked
- 3.5 oz (100g) carrots, chunked
- 7 Vietnamese chili peppers
- 5 oz (150g) rice cakes for tteokbokki
- 4 oz (110g) onion, chunked
- 4 oz (120g) green onions
- 1 teaspoon black pepper powder
- ½ tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Seasoning Sauce
- 1 cup (200ml) pork backbone broth
- 2 cups (400ml) cola
- 6 tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 4 tablespoons cooking wine
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons yuzu syrup
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon powder
Step-by-Step Korean Braised Pork Ribs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Backbone
Begin this traditional Korean recipe by removing any blood from the pork backbone ribs[7][8]. Place the ribs in boiling water with ginger, bay leaves, whole peppercorns, and cola. Simmer for 1 hour to create tender Korean braised pork ribs. This initial cooking process is crucial for achieving the signature texture of this Korean comfort food.
Step 2: Create the Braising Sauce
In a large pot, combine the cooked pork backbone with chunked potatoes and carrots. Add the reserved pork broth, cola, dark soy sauce, cooking wine, minced garlic, yuzu syrup, cinnamon powder, and Vietnamese chili peppers[1][2]. This soy sauce braised pork mixture should simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Add Final Ingredients
Add the rice cakes, chunked onions, and green onions to your Korean pork backbone stew. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes. This Korean jjim recipe benefits from the starchy rice cakes that absorb the rich braising liquid.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Complete your Korean braised pork ribs by stirring in black pepper powder, sesame seeds, and sesame oil. Serve this traditional Korean comfort food immediately while hot, accompanied by steamed rice.
Tips for Perfect Soy Sauce Braised Pork
The secret to exceptional Korean braised pork ribs lies in the balance of sweet and savory flavors[5][8]. The cola acts as both a tenderizer and sweetener, while the soy sauce provides the deep umami foundation that makes this Korean comfort food so satisfying. Don’t skip the initial boiling step, as it’s essential for removing impurities and creating the clean flavor profile characteristic of authentic Korean jjim recipes.
Serving Suggestions for Your Korean Pork Backbone Stew
This traditional Korean recipe pairs beautifully with steamed white rice and kimchi. The rich, savory broth from the soy sauce braised pork makes an excellent base for additional vegetables or noodles. Many Korean families enjoy this Korean comfort food during special occasions and family gatherings.
Storage and Reheating
Korean braised pork ribs actually improve in flavor after resting overnight. Store your leftover Korean pork backbone stew in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating this Korean jjim recipe, add a splash of water or broth to maintain the proper consistency of this beloved Korean comfort food.
