Easy Korean-Hawaiian Meat Jun Recipe 2023

Looking for a unique and flavorful dish that combines the best of Korean and Hawaiian cuisine? Look no further than meat jun! This popular fusion dish features thinly sliced beef or pork that has been marinated, battered, and fried to crispy perfection. Served with a tangy dipping sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and vinegar, meat jun is often accompanied by kimchi for an added kick of flavor. Originally hailing from Hawaii, this tasty dish has become a staple in Hawaiian cuisine and is sure to impress your taste buds. Keep reading for the best meat jun recipe in Hawaii!

The Cultural Significance of Meat Jun in Korean and Hawaiian Cuisine

Meat Jun is a beloved dish in both Korean and Hawaiian cuisine. This flavorful dish originated in Korea but was adapted by Korean immigrants in Hawaii, where it has become a staple food. In this section, we’ll explore the cultural significance of meat jun in both Korean and Hawaiian cuisine.

Meat Jun: A Popular Dish in Korean Culture

In Korea, meat jun is often served during special occasions and celebrations such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays. The dish is typically made with thin slices of beef that are marinated for several hours before being coated with flour or potato starch and egg batter. Then, they are fried until golden brown.

The marinade used for meat jun is a blend of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil. This combination gives the meat a sweet yet savory flavor that is irresistible to many Koreans. It’s not uncommon for families to have their own unique recipe for meat jun that has been passed down from generation to generation.

Meat jun can be served as an appetizer or main course depending on the occasion. It’s often accompanied by rice or other side dishes such as kimchi or pickled vegetables.

Meat Jun: A Staple Dish in Hawaiian Plate Lunches

In Hawaii, meat jun has become a popular dish among locals and tourists alike. It’s often found on the menus of local restaurants and food trucks that specialize in plate lunches.

A typical plate lunch consists of two scoops of rice, macaroni salad, and an entrée such as chicken katsu or kalua pork. Meat jun is one of the most popular entrée choices due to its delicious flavor and filling nature.

The marinade used for meat jun in Hawaii is similar to the one used in Korea but may also include additional ingredients such as ginger or green onions. The dish is usually served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar.

Meat jun has become so popular in Hawaii that it’s often referred to as “Korean-style fried chicken” due to its similarities to the popular American dish.

Best Meat Cuts for Making Meat Jun at Home

If you’re looking to make meat jun at home, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. Here are some tips on the best meat cuts to use:

Thinly Sliced Beef or Pork Shoulder

Thinly sliced beef or pork shoulder are the most commonly used meats for making meat jun. These cuts are ideal because they have just the right amount of fat and marbling to create a tender and juicy texture.

When slicing the meat, it’s important to cut against the grain. This ensures that each piece of meat is tender and easy to chew. Slicing with the grain can result in tough and chewy pieces.

Marinating with Soy Sauce, Sugar, Garlic, and Sesame Oil

To achieve that classic sweet and savory flavor of meat jun, marinating your chosen meat in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil is essential.

The longer you marinate your meat, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 2 hours but overnight would be even better. Make sure to evenly coat each piece of meat with the marinade so that every bite has a burst of flavor.

Coating with Cornstarch

Cornstarch is often used as a coating for meat jun before frying. It creates a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside moist and tender.

Make sure to shake off any excess cornstarch before frying so that it doesn’t burn in hot oil. Fry until golden brown on both sides then let it rest on paper towels before serving.

Now that you know which cuts of meats work best for making delicious homemade meat jun let’s answer some common questions about this popular Korean dish:

• What is Meat Jun? Meat Jun is a Korean dish made from thinly sliced beef or pork that has been marinated in soy sauce, sugar, garlic, sesame oil then coated in cornstarch and fried for a crispy texture.
• Is Meat Jun Healthy? While meat jun is undeniably delicious, it’s not the healthiest dish out there. It’s high in calories, fat, and sodium due to the frying process and marinade ingredients. Enjoy it in moderation as an occasional treat.
• Best Meat Jun Recipe There are countless variations of meat jun recipes out there but the key is to find one that suits your taste preferences. Experiment with different marinade ratios or try adding some spice with gochujang sauce.
• Best Meat Jun Sauce Recipe The dipping sauce for meat jun can vary depending on personal preference but a classic option is a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, green onions, and sesame seeds.
• Easy Meat Jun Recipe Making meat jun at home may seem intimidating but it’s actually quite simple once you have all the ingredients prepped. Follow the steps above for choosing the right meat cuts, marinating, coating with cornstarch then frying until golden brown. Serve with rice and vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Making Flavorful and Authentic Homemade Meat Jun

If you’re a fan of Korean cuisine, then you’ve probably heard of meat jun. This dish consists of thinly sliced beef that’s been marinated, battered, and fried to perfection. The result is a crispy and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

But how do you make authentic homemade meat jun? Here are some tips to help you get started:

Marinate the Meat

To infuse flavor into the meat, it’s important to use a marinade made with soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil. These ingredients work together to create a sweet and savory flavor that’s characteristic of Korean cuisine.

When marinating the meat, be sure to give it enough time to absorb the flavors. A minimum of two hours is recommended, but overnight is even better.

Dip in Batter

After marinating the meat, it’s time to dip it in batter. The batter should be made with flour, cornstarch, and water for a crispy texture.

When dipping the meat in batter, be sure to shake off any excess before frying. This will ensure an even coating that won’t fall off during frying.

Fry Until Golden Brown

To achieve that perfect golden brown color on your meat jun, it’s important to fry it in hot oil. The oil should be heated to 350-375°F before adding the meat.

Fry the meat until it’s cooked through and crispy on both sides. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side.

Serve with Dipping Sauce

No meat jun is complete without a dipping sauce! To make an authentic dipping sauce at home, mix soy sauce, vinegar, green onions, and sesame seeds together in a bowl.

This tangy and slightly sweet sauce pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the meat jun.

Cut Against the Grain

To ensure tenderness in your meat jun, it’s important to cut the meat into thin slices against the grain. This will make the meat easier to chew and more enjoyable to eat.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because of the combination of flavors and textures. The marinade infuses flavor into the meat, while the batter creates a crispy texture on the outside.

Frying in hot oil ensures that the meat is cooked through and has that perfect golden brown color. And serving with a tangy dipping sauce adds another layer of flavor to this already delicious dish.

Step-by-Step Guide: Making Meat Jun Sauce and Preparing Meat Jun

Meat jun is a popular Korean dish that consists of thinly sliced beef that’s marinated, coated in batter, and fried until crispy. The key to making this dish stand out is the meat jun sauce. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the perfect meat jun sauce and prepare the dish step-by-step.

Making Homemade Meat Jun Sauce

The meat jun sauce is what gives this dish its unique flavor. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Set aside until ready to serve.

Preparing Meat Jun

Now that you have your delicious homemade meat jun sauce ready, it’s time to prepare the meat.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef sirloin or flank steak
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 egg
• 3/4 cup water
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Slice the beef into thin pieces against the grain.
2. In a large bowl, mix together soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Add sliced beef to the marinade and toss well.
4. Cover with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight).
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, egg, and water to make the batter.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat until hot.
7. Dip each slice of marinated beef into the batter, making sure it’s coated evenly.
8. Fry the beef in hot oil until golden brown and crispy (about 2-3 minutes per side).
9. Transfer cooked meat jun to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
10. Serve hot with homemade meat jun sauce on the side.

How to Reheat Meat Jun and Store Leftovers

Leftover meat jun is a great way to enjoy this delicious Korean dish for another meal. However, it’s important to store and reheat it properly to maintain its flavor and texture. Here are some tips on how to do just that.

Storing Meat Jun Leftovers

Meat jun can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To ensure its freshness, wrap the leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before storing them in an airtight container. This will prevent any air from getting in and drying out the meat.

Reheating Meat Jun

There are two ways you can reheat your leftover meat jun: in the oven or microwave.

Oven Method

To reheat meat jun in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the leftover meat jun on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Microwave Method

Alternatively, you can use a microwave to reheat your meat jun quickly. Place the leftovers on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Meat jun is typically served with hot rice as a side dish. You can also pair it with other Korean sides such as kimchi, pickled vegetables, or japchae (stir-fried glass noodles).

Variations and Serving Suggestions for Meat Jun

Meat jun is a popular Korean dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking to serve it as a main course or an appetizer, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some variations and serving suggestions for meat jun:

Serve with Rice, Vegetables, or Noodles

Meat jun is traditionally served with rice and vegetables. You can pair it with steamed white rice or try something different like fried rice or mixed grain rice. Vegetables such as lettuce, cucumber, and carrots can be used to create a refreshing side salad.

If you’re looking for something heartier, try serving meat jun with noodles. Japchae (stir-fried glass noodles) or udon (thick wheat flour noodles) are great options that complement the rich flavors of meat jun.

Experiment with Different Meats

While beef is the most common meat used in meat jun recipes, you can also experiment with other meats such as chicken or pork. Chicken breast or thigh can be sliced thinly and marinated in the same way as beef before being battered and fried.

Pork loin or tenderloin can also be used instead of beef. The result will be a slightly different flavor but equally delicious.

Add Cheese for Extra Flavor

For those who love cheese, adding shredded mozzarella on top of the meat before frying adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish. The cheese will melt during frying and create a gooey texture that pairs well with the crispy exterior of the meat.

Dip in Various Sauces

Meat jun can be dipped in various sauces depending on your preference. Soy sauce mixed with vinegar and sesame oil makes for a classic dipping sauce that complements the savory flavors of the dish.

For those who prefer something spicier, try mixing mayonnaise with gochujang (Korean chili paste) to create a spicy mayo dipping sauce. This adds a creamy texture and a kick of heat to the dish.

Use Leftovers in Sandwiches or Salads

If you have any leftover meat jun, don’t let it go to waste! You can use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Simply slice the meat into thin strips and place them on bread or tortillas with your favorite veggies and condiments.

You can also use leftover meat jun in salads. Toss it with greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing for a refreshing lunch option.

Enjoying the Delicious Fusion Flavors of Homemade Meat Jun

Congratulations, you are now equipped with the knowledge and skills to make your own delicious meat jun at home! By understanding the cultural significance of this dish in Korean and Hawaiian cuisine, selecting the best meat cuts for your recipe, following our tips for preparing flavorful and authentic meat jun, and using our step-by-step guide to make the sauce and cook the dish, you can enjoy a mouthwatering fusion of flavors right in your own kitchen.

Don’t forget our advice on reheating and storing leftovers properly to ensure that your meat jun stays fresh and tasty. And feel free to experiment with variations on this classic recipe or try out different serving suggestions to make it truly your own.

Now that you know how to make homemade meat jun, why not invite some friends over for a taste test? Or surprise your family with this unique and delicious dish at your next dinner party. Whatever you choose, we hope that our guide has helped you discover a new favorite recipe that you can enjoy time and time again.

Happy Cooking!