Let's dive into making some seriously delicious Korean Pork Bone Soup, also known as Gamjatang, right in your Instant Pot! This recipe is all about getting that deep, savory flavor and fall-off-the-bone tenderness without spending hours watching over a stove. If you're craving a comforting, hearty meal, you've come to the right place. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this authentic and easy-to-follow guide.

Why Use an Instant Pot for Gamjatang?

Gamjatang, traditionally simmered for hours to achieve its signature rich flavor, is now incredibly accessible thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. The Instant Pot not only drastically reduces cooking time but also enhances the depth of flavor by pressure-cooking the pork bones. This method allows the meat to become incredibly tender while infusing the broth with a robust, savory taste that's hard to beat. Plus, the hands-off nature of the Instant Pot means you can set it and forget it, freeing you up to tackle other tasks or simply relax while a delicious meal practically cooks itself. Using an Instant Pot for Gamjatang is a game-changer, especially for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting and flavorful but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen. The consistent pressure and temperature control of the Instant Pot ensure that every batch is cooked to perfection, giving you reliable and delicious results every time. So, ditch the all-day simmering and embrace the convenience and flavor enhancement that the Instant Pot brings to this classic Korean soup. Trust me, once you try Gamjatang made in an Instant Pot, you'll never go back to the old way. It's the perfect blend of tradition and modern convenience, making it easier than ever to enjoy this comforting and satisfying dish.

Ingredients You'll Need

To nail this Korean Pork Bone Soup recipe, you'll need a few key ingredients that bring out the authentic flavors. Let's break it down:

• Pork Neck Bones: The star of the show! Aim for about 2-3 pounds of pork neck bones. These are meaty and perfect for a rich broth.
• Potatoes: About 2-3 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered. They add heartiness and soak up all that delicious broth.
• Dried Radish Greens ( 시래기 ): This adds a unique earthy flavor. You can find these at most Korean grocery stores.
• Napa Cabbage: Roughly chopped, about 1/2 a head. Adds a subtle sweetness and texture.
• Green Onions: A bunch, chopped. For garnish and a fresh bite.
• Perilla Seeds Powder ( 들깨가루 ): This is essential for that nutty, authentic Gamjatang flavor. Don't skip it!
• Soybean Paste ( 된장 ): Adds a deep, savory umami flavor to the broth.
• Gochujang ( 고추장 ): Korean chili paste for a bit of spice and depth.
• Gochugaru ( 고추가루 ): Korean chili powder for color and extra heat.
• Minced Garlic: Plenty of it! Garlic is a flavor powerhouse in Korean cuisine.
• Ginger: A knob of ginger, minced. Adds warmth and cuts through the richness.
• Soy Sauce: For seasoning and umami.
• Fish Sauce: A splash for extra depth (optional, but recommended).
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Water: Enough to cover the bones in the Instant Pot.

Having these ingredients on hand will set you up for success. Don't worry if you can't find everything; Korean grocery stores are your best bet, but some larger supermarkets might carry the essentials. With these in your arsenal, you're ready to create a truly unforgettable Gamjatang experience. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the complex and satisfying flavor profile that makes this soup so beloved. The combination of savory, spicy, and earthy elements creates a symphony of tastes that will leave you craving more.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get cooking! Follow these steps to make the most amazing Korean Pork Bone Soup in your Instant Pot:

1. Soak the Pork Bones: Place the pork neck bones in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes to draw out any impurities. This step is crucial for a cleaner, better-tasting broth. Change the water a couple of times during the soaking process to ensure you're removing as much of the impurities as possible. Soaking the bones not only improves the flavor but also helps to reduce any gamey taste that might be present. It's a simple step that makes a significant difference in the final result, so don't skip it!
2. Blanch the Bones: Drain the soaked bones and transfer them to a large pot. Cover with fresh water and bring to a boil. Let them boil for about 5-10 minutes. This helps to further remove impurities. You'll notice some scum rising to the top; that's exactly what we want to get rid of. After blanching, rinse the bones thoroughly under cold water to remove any remaining scum. This blanching process is essential for a clear and flavorful broth. It ensures that your soup will have a clean taste without any unwanted flavors. Take your time with this step to achieve the best possible result.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Turn on your Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Add a little oil and sauté the minced garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for the soup. Sautéing the aromatics releases their essential oils, creating a richer and more complex flavor profile. Keep a close eye on the garlic and ginger to prevent them from burning, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the soup. Sautéing these ingredients is a simple yet effective way to enhance the overall flavor of your Gamjatang.
4. Add the Bones and Seasonings: Add the blanched pork neck bones to the Instant Pot. Then, add soybean paste ( doenjang ), gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, and fish sauce (if using). Stir everything well to coat the bones with the seasonings. This is where the magic happens! The combination of these seasonings creates the signature savory and spicy flavor that Gamjatang is known for. Make sure the bones are evenly coated to ensure that the flavor is distributed throughout the soup. This step is crucial for building the depth of flavor that makes this dish so satisfying.
5. Add Vegetables and Water: Add the potatoes, dried radish greens ( siraegi ), and Napa cabbage to the Instant Pot. Pour in enough water to cover the bones and vegetables. Make sure not to overfill the pot; leave some space for the pressure to build. The vegetables will add heartiness and soak up all the delicious flavors from the broth. Adding enough water is essential for proper cooking and to prevent the Instant Pot from malfunctioning. Ensure that all the ingredients are submerged for even cooking.
6. Pressure Cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the manual or pressure cook function and set the timer for 45 minutes. This allows the bones to become incredibly tender and the flavors to meld together beautifully. The pressure cooking process breaks down the connective tissues in the bones, resulting in fall-off-the-bone tenderness. This is what makes the Instant Pot such a game-changer for making Gamjatang. Be patient and let the Instant Pot do its thing!
7. Natural Pressure Release: Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for about 15-20 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure manually. Natural pressure release helps to prevent the soup from splattering and ensures that the meat remains tender. Releasing the pressure too quickly can result in a less flavorful and potentially tougher soup. So, take your time and let the pressure release naturally for the best results.
8. Final Touches: Open the Instant Pot and stir in the perilla seed powder ( deulkkae garu ). This adds a nutty and aromatic flavor that is characteristic of Gamjatang. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. The perilla seed powder is the secret ingredient that elevates this soup to another level. It adds a unique and irresistible flavor that you won't want to miss. Adjusting the seasoning to your liking is the final step in creating the perfect bowl of Gamjatang.

Serving Suggestions

Gamjatang is fantastic on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

• With Rice: Serve it with a bowl of steamed white rice. The rice soaks up the flavorful broth perfectly.
• Side Dishes: Offer some classic Korean side dishes like kimchi, pickled radish, and seasoned spinach.
• Dipping Sauce: A simple dipping sauce of soy sauce, vinegar, and a pinch of gochugaru adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like enoki mushrooms or bean sprouts for added texture and nutrients.

Tips for the Best Gamjatang

• Quality of Pork Bones: Use the best quality pork neck bones you can find. Look for ones with plenty of meat on them.
• Don't Skip the Soaking and Blanching: These steps are crucial for a clean and flavorful broth.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Add more or less gochugaru depending on your spice preference.
• Perilla Seed Powder is Key: Don't skip the perilla seed powder; it's essential for the authentic flavor.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking before serving.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: While traditionally made with pork, you can create a vegetarian version using mushrooms and vegetable broth.
• Spicier Version: Add more gochujang and gochugaru for an extra kick.
• Seafood Addition: Add some shrimp or mussels for a seafood twist.

Conclusion

There you have it! Making Korean Pork Bone Soup in the Instant Pot is easier than you might think, and the results are absolutely worth it. With tender pork, flavorful broth, and hearty vegetables, this soup is a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and you'll be enjoying a taste of Korea in no time!