Authentic Korean Gopchang Recipe: A Grilled Delight from the Streets of Seoul

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lb fresh gopchang (beef tripe)
  • 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup of Korean soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup of chopped scallions
  • 2 tablespoons of minced garlic
  • 1/2 cup of chopped onion
  • 1 tablespoon of black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons of chopped red chili peppers
  • 1 cup of Korean rice wine
  • 5 cups of water
  • 2 tablespoons of red chili powder
  • 1/2 cup of chopped green onions for garnish

Steps and instructions

  1. Rinse the gopchang (beef tripe) thoroughly under cold water, soaking in water and rinsing again if necessary to remove any residual blood or impurities.
  2. Pat dry the gopchang with a clean kitchen towel.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
  4. Add the gopchang to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until browned on all sides.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the Korean soy sauce, chopped scallions, minced garlic, chopped onion, black pepper, sugar, sesame oil, and chopped red chili peppers to create the marinade.
  6. Add the browned gopchang to the marinade, making sure all pieces are coated well. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour.
  7. In a large pot, combine the Korean rice wine and water and bring to a boil over high heat.
  8. Add the marinated gopchang to the boiling water, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 1-2 hours or until the gopchang is tender.
  9. Add the red chili powder to the pot, stirring well to combine, and continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
  10. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Tools for making

  • Skillet - A large skillet to brown the gopchang.
  • Large Bowl - A large bowl to mix the marinade ingredients and coat the gopchang.
  • Large Pot - A large pot to boil and simmer the gopchang.
  • Kitchen Towel - A clean kitchen towel to pat dry the gopchang.

Recipe variations

  • Use pork or chicken intestines instead of beef tripe for a different flavor.
  • Add diced vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to the marinade for added freshness and texture.
  • Replace the Korean soy sauce with a combination of soy sauce and oyster sauce for a richer taste.
  • Add Korean chili paste (gochujang) to the marinade for a spicier version.
  • Experiment with different spices such as cumin, paprika, or curry powder to give the dish a unique twist.
  • Include other meats like thinly sliced beef, pork belly, or chicken in the dish for added protein.
  • For a vegetarian or vegan option, substitute the meat with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
  • Try grilling the marinated gopchang instead of simmering it for a different texture and smoky flavor.
  • Serve the cooked gopchang with a side of kimchi or pickled vegetables for a traditional Korean accompaniment.
  • Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or crushed peanuts as a garnish for added crunch and nuttiness.

Recipe overview

Gopchang is a popular Korean dish that features beef tripe as the main ingredient. This unique delicacy is marinated in a flavorful blend of Korean soy sauce, scallions, garlic, onion, black pepper, sugar, sesame oil, and red chili peppers, giving it a distinct, rich flavor. The marinated gopchang is then simmered in a mix of Korean rice wine and water until it becomes tender and the flavors are fully absorbed. The addition of red chili powder towards the end of the cooking process gives the dish a spicy kick. Once prepared, the gopchang is garnished with freshly chopped green onions, adding a hint of freshness to balance out the intensity of the flavors. This recipe offers a gastronomic adventure for those who are into trying exotic dishes. It's important to be patient with the cooking process as it requires time for the gopchang to become tender and flavorful. But rest assured, the result is worth the wait!

Common questions

  1. Can I use frozen gopchang instead of fresh?
  2. No, it is recommended to use fresh gopchang for the best texture and flavor.
  3. Can I substitute the Korean soy sauce with regular soy sauce?
  4. While regular soy sauce can be used as a substitute, Korean soy sauce has a unique flavor profile that enhances the authenticity of the dish.
  5. How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
  6. You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less red chili peppers and red chili powder according to your preference.
  7. Can I use a different type of oil?
  8. Yes, you can use other neutral oils like canola oil or peanut oil as a substitute for vegetable oil.
  9. What can I serve with gopchang?
  10. Gopchang is usually enjoyed with steamed rice and a variety of banchan (side dishes) such as kimchi, pickled radish, and fresh lettuce leaves.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Skillet - A large skillet is needed to brown the gopchang.
  • Large Bowl - A large bowl is required to prepare the marinade for the gopchang.
  • Kitchen Towel - A clean kitchen towel is necessary for patting dry the gopchang.
  • Large Pot - A large pot is needed to boil and simmer the gopchang.

Origin stories

Gopchang, a popular Korean dish, has a rich history and is known for its unique texture and flavor. The term 'gopchang' refers to the small intestines of cows and pigs, and is considered a delicacy in Korean cuisine. While many might flinch at the thought of eating intestines, in Korea, gopchang is a beloved dish, often enjoyed at specialized restaurants with soju, a traditional Korean spirit. Interestingly, during the Korean War, when meat was scarce, gopchang became a protein-rich substitute. It bridges the gap between a humble past and modern Korean gastronomy, embodying the very essence of Korean soul food. The cooking process itself is a labor of love, requiring meticulous cleaning, marinating, and hours of simmering to achieve its characteristic tenderness and flavor. Gopchang truly encapsulates the Korean spirit of making the most out of the simplest ingredients, demonstrating that with patience and care, even the most overlooked parts can become a star at the dining table.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.