🇰🇷 South Korea · Food
Bossam (Napa Cabbage Pork Wraps)
By eatmundo · July 12, 2026
This succulent boiled pork dish is a staple of Korean festive gatherings, paired with fresh kimchi and crisp cabbage leaves. It’s a masterclass in balancing tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat with spicy, crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Place 1kg of pork belly into a large heavy-bottomed pot filled with enough water to cover the meat completely.
- 2
Add 3 tablespoons of doenjang, 1 tablespoon of instant coffee, and a few whole garlic cloves to the water to remove the pork's gamey scent.
- 3
Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer for 60 minutes until the meat is fork-tender.
- 4
Check for doneness by inserting a skewer; if it slides through the meat without resistance, it is perfectly cooked.
- 5
Carefully remove the pork from the liquid and let it rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes to lock in the juices.
- 6
Slice the pork belly into thin, 5mm-thick strips using a sharp knife for clean edges.
- 7
Prepare fresh Napa cabbage leaves and radish kimchi to serve alongside the sliced pork.
- 8
Assemble your wrap by placing a slice of meat on a cabbage leaf, topping it with a small amount of kimchi, and folding it into a bite-sized package.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cut of pork is best?+
Pork belly is the traditional choice for its high fat content, but pork shoulder can be used for a leaner version.
Why use coffee in the boiling water?+
Coffee helps eliminate the pungent pork smell and imparts a subtle, rich depth to the meat.
Can I make this ahead of time?+
You can boil the pork ahead, but it is best served warm and freshly sliced to prevent it from becoming dry.
What if the meat falls apart?+
If the pork is too soft, chill it for 30 minutes in the refrigerator before slicing to achieve clean, professional cuts.
Mundo Match
This dish doesn't have a strong Mundo Match yet — but here's the closest ingredient overlap we found across the world's cuisines.
