korean meatloaf with gochujang glaze

Korean meatloaf with gochujang glaze brings a delightful twist to the classic meatloaf, infusing it with bold Korean flavors. This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. The unique combination of gochujang and apricot jam creates a sweet and spicy glaze that elevates the savory beef. It’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The gochujang glaze adds a wonderful kick and depth of flavor, setting this meatloaf apart from traditional recipes.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both adults and kids, making it an excellent meal for family gatherings.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this meatloaf without hassle.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, noodles, or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
• Make Ahead: Prepare it in advance for busy weeknights; it stores well in the fridge and tastes great as leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to streamline your kitchen experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking spoon or spatula
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Essential for shaping the meatloaf evenly, ensuring consistent cooking throughout.
• Mixing bowls: Help keep ingredients organized while allowing for easy mixing of components without mess.
• Instant-read thermometer: Ensures perfect doneness by providing accurate internal temperature readings for safe eating.

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Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs
• 1 large onion (- finely diced)
• 8 cloves garlic (- crushed)
• 2 tbsp gochujang
• 5 green onions (- minced)
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 2 large eggs (- lightly beaten to combine)
• 2 tsp vegetable oil

For the Gochujang Glaze

• 3 tbsp apricot jam
• 2 tbsp gochujang
• 1 tbsp rice apple vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp granulated garlic powder (or 2 cloves garlic, minced)

How to Make korean meatloaf with gochujang glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your meatloaf cooks evenly from the start.

Step 2: Cook the Onions

Film a pan with vegetable oil. Add minced onions and cook slowly until they become translucent; this should take about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add crushed garlic to the onions and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat, transfer to a bowl, and place in the refrigerator to cool.

Step 4: Mix Ingredients

Combine the cooled onion mixture with minced green onion, gochujang, eggs, and kosher salt in a mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 5: Combine Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, add ground beef and breadcrumbs. Incorporate the onion-gochujang mixture gently. Aim for an even color without packing it too tightly.

Step 6: Transfer to Loaf Pan

Transfer the meatloaf mixture into a 9.5 inch by 5 inch loaf pan or shape it free-form on a cookie sheet if preferred.

Step 7: Bake Initial Layer

Place the meatloaf in your preheated oven. Bake until an internal temperature of 140°F is reached; this should take about 40 minutes.

Step 8: Prepare Glaze

While baking, combine all glaze ingredients in a bowl. Stir thoroughly until well mixed.

Step 9: Apply Glaze

Once the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 140°F, remove it from the oven. Spoon the prepared glaze evenly over the top.

Step 10: Finish Baking

Return the glazed meatloaf back into the oven. Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F; this will take about another 10-15 minutes. Avoid overcooking as this can lead to dryness.

Serve hot with mustard pickled onions or your favorite sides! Enjoy your flavorful Korean meatloaf with gochujang glaze!

How to Serve korean meatloaf with gochujang glaze

Korean meatloaf with gochujang glaze is not only a delightful main dish but also pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed rice is a classic pairing that complements the rich flavors of the meatloaf, soaking up the savory juices.

With Pickled Vegetables

• Serve with a side of pickled vegetables for a refreshing crunch that balances the meat’s richness. Try mustard pickled onions for an extra zing!

With Asian Slaw

• A colorful Asian slaw adds texture and freshness. Use shredded cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing for a perfect contrast.

On a Bed of Lettuce

• For a lighter option, serve slices of meatloaf on fresh lettuce leaves. It makes for a delightful wrap that’s easy to eat.

With Kimchi

• Traditional Korean kimchi adds spice and tanginess, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile while providing health benefits.

Topped with Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkle sesame seeds on top just before serving for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the glaze beautifully.

How to Perfect korean meatloaf with gochujang glaze

Creating the perfect Korean meatloaf requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to help you achieve delicious results every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and green onions enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried or stale ingredients.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients to maintain a tender texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf.

• Check Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure your meatloaf reaches 160°F for safe consumption while avoiding dryness.

• Let it Rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest after cooking. This lets the juices redistribute, resulting in more flavorful slices.

• Adjust Glaze to Taste: Feel free to tweak the gochujang glaze by adding more honey for sweetness or vinegar for tang, depending on your preference.

• Experiment with Herbs: Adding chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can give your meatloaf an aromatic lift.

Best Side Dishes for korean meatloaf with gochujang glaze

Pairing side dishes with Korean meatloaf enhances your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side dish that pairs beautifully.

2. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quick stir-fried bok choy adds vibrant color and nutrients, making it an excellent healthy option.

3. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar provides refreshing crunch that contrasts well with the savory loaf.

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the spicy glaze of the meatloaf perfectly.

5. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles tossed in peanut sauce offer another layer of flavor that pairs nicely with Korean cuisine.

6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is an excellent starter that prepares your palate for the bold flavors of the main dish.

7. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice made with vegetables enhances your meal while keeping it cohesive in theme.

8. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and texture, balancing out any richness from the meatloaf.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making korean meatloaf with gochujang glaze, there are a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the Meat: Mixing the meat too much can lead to a dense texture. Gently combine the ingredients to keep it light and fluffy.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Not allowing the onion mixture to cool can cook the eggs when combined. Always let it chill before mixing with the meat.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Cooking without checking internal temperature can result in undercooked or dry meatloaf. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.
• Using Too Much Glaze Too Early: Adding all the glaze at once can cause burning. Apply half during cooking and save some for serving.
• Not Letting It Rest: Cutting into the meatloaf immediately can let juices escape. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing for better moisture retention.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing korean meatloaf with gochujang glaze

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating korean meatloaf with gochujang glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Wrap in foil and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals, checking frequently until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing korean meatloaf with gochujang glaze:

What is gochujang?

Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste made from red chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. It adds heat and depth of flavor.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute that keeps this dish lighter while still delicious. Adjust seasoning as needed.

How can I customize my korean meatloaf with gochujang glaze?

Feel free to add vegetables like grated carrots or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also adjust the level of spice by varying the amount of gochujang used.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This helps meld flavors together.

What should I serve with korean meatloaf with gochujang glaze?

Serve it alongside steamed rice and pickled vegetables for a complete meal that highlights Korean flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Korean meatloaf with gochujang glaze is a flavorful twist on a classic dish that your family will love. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on preference or dietary needs. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a household favorite!