Korean Barbecue Sauce(Kun Koki)

Prep: 70 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: Korean

A flavorful Korean barbecue sauce with toasted sesame, garlic, and savory shoyu, ideal for marinating chicken or meat, perfect for grilling or pan-frying enthusiasts.

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Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp. sesame seed, browned and pulverized
  • 1 c. shoyu
  • 2/3 c. vegetable oil
  • 2/3 c. white sugar
  • 1 tsp. black pepper
  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped fine
  • chopped green onions
  • 3 lb. boneless chicken or barbecue meat

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients, except chicken or meat.
  2. Marinate boneless chicken or meat for 1 hour or more.
  3. Broil, pan fry, or charcoal grill the marinated meat until cooked.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute shoyu with tamari. Consider adding a splash of rice vinegar for acidity or a dash of gochujang for heat. If you have leftover sauce, it can be refrigerated and used in other dishes, like stir-fries or as a dip.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the grilled or broiled chicken with steamed rice and a side of kimchi for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Scalloped Chicken And Oyster Dressing or can be served as part of a barbecue spread alongside seasonal vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions for freshness.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or reheat on a skillet over medium heat until heated evenly. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Korean Barbecue Sauce(Kun Koki) contains roughly 1256 calories, with 13g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 129g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (210% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1387mg per serving (60% of the Daily Value).

1256 kcal 63% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13.1g 26% DV
Total Fat 129.2g 100% DV
Carbs 22.8g 8% DV
Fiber 8.2g 29% DV
Sugar 2.8g 6% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1387.1mg 60% DV
Potassium 567.9mg 12% DV
Cholesterol 148.1mg 49% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1888mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 5mg 6% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 166.4mg 13% DV
Iron 3.9mg 22% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Sesame

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use beef, pork, or even tofu as a substitute for chicken. Each protein will absorb the marinade differently, so adjust marinating times accordingly—beef may require less time, while tofu might need at least an hour.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

To modify the sweetness, simply reduce the amount of white sugar. You can also use honey or maple syrup as alternatives for a different flavor profile. Taste the marinade as you adjust to ensure it meets your preferences.

What's the best cooking method for this recipe?

Broiling is ideal for achieving a nice char, but pan-frying works well if you prefer a quicker option. For an authentic barbecue flavor, charcoal grilling is recommended. Ensure the meat reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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