Save This tender pulled pork slow-cooked in spicy-sweet gochujang sauce creates the perfect fusion slider that balances Korean flavors with American comfort food. The rich, sticky pork contrasts beautifully with the crisp, tangy slaw for an irresistible party bite that always disappears fast.
I first made these sliders for a neighborhood potluck where I wanted something different from the usual BBQ fare. The empty platter and requests for the recipe convinced me these needed to become part of my regular rotation for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- Boneless pork shoulder 1.5 kg: Delivers the perfect fat content for juicy pulled pork that shreds beautifully after slow cooking
- Gochujang 1/3 cup: The star ingredient that provides complex sweet heat without overwhelming spiciness look for brands with deep red color for best flavor
- Soy sauce 1/4 cup: Adds essential umami depth and saltiness that complements the pork perfectly
- Brown sugar and honey: Creates the caramelization that makes the meat irresistibly sticky
- Rice vinegar: Balances richness with necessary acidity in both the sauce and slaw
- Sesame oil: Provides distinctive nutty undertones that signal Korean flavors
- Napa cabbage: Fresh crisp texture that holds up well against the rich pork
- Slider buns: Choose soft brioche style for the best contrast with the spicy filling
Instructions
- Season the Pork Foundation:
- Generously coat your pork shoulder with salt and pepper ensuring you season all sides. This initial seasoning layer builds the first dimension of flavor before the sauce even enters the picture. Allow the seasoned meat to sit for 15 minutes at room temperature while you prepare the sauce.
- Create the Gochujang Sauce:
- Whisk together gochujang paste soy sauce brown sugar rice vinegar honey sesame oil minced garlic grated ginger and chicken broth until completely smooth. The sauce should have a glossy appearance and pourable consistency that will penetrate the meat during cooking. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level if needed.
- Slow Cook to Perfection:
- Place the seasoned pork in your slow cooker and pour the vibrant sauce over it turning several times to ensure complete coverage. Set your slow cooker to LOW for 6 hours avoiding the temptation to use the HIGH setting which can make the meat tough rather than tender. The low slow heat allows the connective tissues to break down properly while the flavors meld.
- Prepare Fresh Slaw:
- About 30 minutes before serving combine the shredded napa cabbage julienned carrots and sliced green onions in a large bowl. In a separate small bowl whisk together rice vinegar sesame oil sugar and salt until the sugar dissolves then pour over the vegetables. Toss thoroughly and refrigerate allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while maintaining their crunch.
- Shred and Finish the Pork:
- Once the pork reaches fork tender perfection transfer it to a large bowl retaining the cooking liquid. Use two forks to pull the meat apart into shreds working with the natural grain. Skim excess fat from the sauce then return the shredded pork to the sauce mixing thoroughly to ensure each strand is coated in the sticky glaze.
- Assemble the Sliders:
- Lightly toast the buns if desired for added texture contrast. Pile a generous portion of the gochujang pork onto each bottom bun followed by a heaping spoonful of the crisp slaw. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and fresh herbs if using then cap with the top bun. Serve immediately while the pork is still warm and juicy.
Save Gochujang is really the heart of this recipe. I discovered this Korean chili paste years ago and now keep it as a staple in my refrigerator. The first time I served these sliders to my extended family I was worried the heat might be too much but my spice adverse mother in law asked for seconds which confirmed the perfect balance of flavors.
Make Ahead Magic
These sliders are actually better when prepared a day ahead. The pork absorbs more flavor as it sits overnight in the refrigerator. Simply cook and shred the pork then refrigerate it in its sauce. Prepare the slaw ingredients but store the vegetables and dressing separately. When ready to serve reheat the pork in a covered dish in the oven at 300°F for about 20 minutes or until hot throughout then dress the slaw just before assembling.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find gochujang use 3 tablespoons tomato paste mixed with 1 tablespoon sriracha and 1 teaspoon brown sugar. The flavor profile will be different but still delicious. For a leaner option substitute pork loin but add 1/4 cup apple juice to the sauce to maintain moisture during cooking. Slider buns can be replaced with lettuce cups for a lower carb option or even soft corn tortillas for a fusion taco twist.
Serving Suggestions
Create a slider bar with additional toppings like quick pickled cucumbers kimchi sliced avocado and extra gochujang sauce for guests who enjoy more heat. These sliders pair beautifully with a simple side of sticky rice or crispy roasted potato wedges seasoned with sesame seeds and garlic. For a complete Korean inspired spread serve alongside banchan small side dishes like spinach namul or gamja jorim potato side dish.
Cultural Context
This recipe represents the beautiful marriage of Korean flavors with American comfort food. Gochujang has been a cornerstone of Korean cuisine for centuries valued for its complex fermented flavor that delivers heat without overwhelming the palate. By incorporating this traditional ingredient into the familiar format of pulled pork sliders we create an accessible entry point to Korean flavors while honoring both culinary traditions.
Save Save some of the cooking liquid to moisten the pork if it seems dry when reheating. This ensures every bite is as flavorful and tender as the first.
Recipe FAQ
- → What cut of pork is best for this dish?
Pork shoulder is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking, resulting in juicy pulled meat.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, both the pork and slaw can be prepared ahead. Store separately and assemble the sliders just before serving.
- → How spicy is the gochujang sauce?
The sauce has a balanced heat with sweetness from honey and brown sugar. Adjust the gochujang amount for milder or spicier results.
- → Are there gluten-free options?
Use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free buns to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- → What are good side dishes?
Light salads, pickled vegetables, or crisp potato chips complement these sliders well.
- → Can these be made in the oven?
Absolutely. Use a Dutch oven, bake covered at 150°C/300°F for about 3 hours until pork is fork-tender.