• Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • YouTube
Platings and pairings logo.
Start Here
All Recipes
Perfect Pairings
Wine Travel
About
Home

Korean Barbecue Sauces: 5+ Tasty Sauces to Try!

Jump to Recipe

|

Posted by:

Erin Lynch

|

Updated:

June 23, 2024

|

5 from 2 votes

This site runs ads and generates income from affiliate links. Disclosure policy.

  • Facebook
  • Flipboard
  • Email
Collage of Korean BBQ sauces with text overlay.

Looking for some tasty Korean BBQ Sauces to compliment your grilled dinner? Here are 5+ delicious sauce options to try out! Whether you prefer the fiery kick of gochujang, the rich umami of ssamjang, or the simplicity of sesame oil and salt, there is a sauce to suit everyone on this list.

Collage of Korean BBQ sauces with text overlay.

Save This Recipe!

Enter your email address to get a link to this post conveniently in your inbox!

Save Recipe

Korean barbecue, known as “gogi-gui,” is always a culinary adventure.

And, while the marinated meats take center stage, the experience wouldn’t be complete without a delectable array of sauces that elevate the flavors and textures of the grilled meats.

In this post, we’ll explore some of the must-try sauces for Korean BBQ.

PS – Be sure to check out these 20+ tasty Korean Side Dishes too!

The BEST Korean Barbecue Dipping Sauces

Homemade Ssamjang (Korean Dipping Sauce) - Beyond Kimchee
Homemade Ssamjang (Korean Dipping Sauce) – Beyond Kimchee
Ssamjang: The King of Korean BBQ Sauces
Ssamjang is the undisputed king of Korean BBQ sauces. Combining fermented soybean paste (doenjang), spicy gochujang, sesame oil, garlic, and green onions, this addictive sauce packs a punch. Its rich, savory umami flavor enhances the smoky goodness of grilled meats. Ssamjang is traditionally used to wrap grilled meat in fresh lettuce leaves, creating a mouthwatering bundle of flavors and textures. The balance of spicy, salty, and slightly sweet notes makes it an absolute must-have at any Korean BBQ table.
Get the RECIPE from Beyond Kimchee
Gochujang: The Bold and Spicy Staple
Gochujang, a chili paste made from fermented soybeans and red chili peppers, adds a vibrant kick to Korean BBQ. It possesses a complex and unique flavor profile, combining sweetness, tanginess, and intense spiciness. Whether brushed on the meat before grilling or used as a dipping sauce, gochujang imparts a fiery depth of flavor. For those who enjoy an extra heat, mix it with some sesame oil, vinegar, and garlic for a sensational dip.
Get the RECIPE from Minimalist Baker
Spoon drizzling kecap manis into bowl.
Sweet Soy Sauce (Kecap Manis)
Kecap Manis: Dipping Sauce with a Twist
Kecap manis can also be used as a dipping sauce, offering a unique alternative to traditional Korean BBQ sauces. Its sweet and savory profile provides a delightful contrast to the smokiness of the grilled meats. You can mix kecap manis with a splash of lime juice, a pinch of chili flakes, and a dash of sesame oil to create a tantalizing dipping sauce that brings together the best of both Indonesian and Korean flavors.
Recipe
Korean BBQ Grilled Pork Belly | 15 Minutes | LowCarbingAsian
Sesame Oil and Salt: The Classic Combination
Sometimes, simplicity is the key to perfection. Sesame oil and salt, when combined, create a classic Korean BBQ sauce that allows the flavors of the grilled meat to shine through. The nutty aroma of sesame oil and the subtle seasoning of salt enhance the natural juiciness of the meats without overpowering them. Dip your perfectly grilled morsels into this sauce and experience the pure essence of Korean BBQ.
Get the RECIPE from Low Carbing Asian
Ponzu Sauce
Ponzu: The Citrus Twist
While not traditionally Korean, ponzu sauce has gained popularity as a refreshing addition to Korean BBQ. Originating from Japan, this citrus-based sauce infuses the grilled meats with a tangy and zesty flavor. Made from a combination of citrus juice (typically yuzu or lemon), soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of sweetness, ponzu cuts through the richness of the grilled meats and adds a delightful contrast. Its vibrant flavor profile makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a lighter alternative to the spicier sauces.
Get the RECIPE from A Couple Cooks
Doenjang: Korean Bean Paste
Doenjang: The Fermented Wonder
Doenjang, a fermented soybean paste similar to miso, offers a deep and earthy flavor to Korean BBQ. With its complex and intense umami taste, this sauce enhances the savory notes of the grilled meats. Mixing doenjang with some sesame oil, garlic, and a hint of honey creates a mouthwatering marinade or dipping sauce. Experimenting with the thickness of the sauce can provide a variety of tastes, making it a versatile option for Korean BBQ aficionados.
Get the RECIPE from Chili Pepper Madness

How to Make Ahead and Store

Many of these sauce recipes can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days or even in the freezer. Simply check the individual recipes for full storing instructions and details on how to make ahead. 

More Sauce Recipes

  • Sauces for Egg Rolls
  • Sauces for Noodles
  • Sauces for Udon Noodles
  • Sauces for Rice Noodles
  • Sauces for Rice Paper Rolls
  • Sauces for Sushi
  • Sauces for Rice Bowls
  • Sauces for Buddha Bowls
  • Sauces for Hibachi

Did you try any of these Korean BBQ sauces?

If you loved this roundup of dipping sauces for Korean BBQ I would appreciate it so much if you would give this recipe a star review! Also, be sure to snap a picture of your finished dish and share it with me on Instagram using the hashtag #platingsandpairings and tagging me @platingsandpairings.

For more great Platings and Pairings recipes, be sure to follow me on  Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest and Facebook.

Save This Recipe!

Enter your email address to get a link to this post conveniently in your inbox!

Save Recipe – Before Recipe Card

Collage of Korean BBQ sauces.

Full Recipe

5+ BEST Korean Barbecue Sauces

5+ delicious Korean Barbecue Sauces to try out! Whether you prefer the fiery kick of gochujang, the umami of ssamjang, or a more simple sauce like this Kecap Manis. So sweet and aromatic, this 3-ingredient sauce is easy to make and a must-have in your fridge!
5 from 2 votes
Print Pin
Serves 8 people
Created by Platings and Pairings
Prep Time: 5 minutes mins
Cook Time: 10 minutes mins
Total Time: 15 minutes mins

Equipment

  • Saucepan

Ingredients

  • ½ cup soy sauce
  • ½ cup brown sugar or palm sugar
  • 2 garlic cloves (crushed and peeled)

Instructions

  • Place all ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce begins to thicken, 10-15 minutes. (It should coat the back of a spoon, but note that it will continue to thicken as it cools.)
  • Strain the garlic from the sauce and allow to cool. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.

Notes

Makes about 1 cup.

Nutrition

Calories: 62kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 814mg | Potassium: 52mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 16mg | Iron: 1mg
Did you make this recipe?Mention @platingsandpairings or tag #platingsandpairings!
  • Facebook
  • Flipboard
  • Email
5 from 2 votes (2 ratings without comment)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

One response

  1. shaheen
    August 5, 2023

    Thank you for giving your time to these delicious recipes.
    Waiting FOR MORE RECIPES!

    Reply

Hi, I’m Erin!

Can I pour you a glass of wine? Let’s have some fun in the kitchen! Maybe some pasta? A juicy steak? I’ve got loads of yummy, easy recipes for you! Because cooking should feel as comfy as your favorite yoga pants. ♥

Know More

Follow Me on Social!

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Pinterest
  • X
  • YouTube

Recent Recipes

  • Avocado Hot Sauce
  • Caramelized Cabbage Pasta with Pecans
  • Marry Me Beans
  • Cauliflower Potato Salad
  • Thai Quinoa Salad with Peanut Sauce
  • Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
  • Roasted Honey Balsamic Brussel Sprouts
  • Smashed Cucumber Salad with Fresh Herbs + Chili Crisp

Dish Type

30 Minute Meals
Appetizer Recipes
Cocktail Recipes
Dessert Recipes
Healthy Recipes

Cooking Method

Air Fryer Recipes
Grilling Recipes
Instant Pot Recipes
Slow Cooker Recipes
Sous Vide Recipes

Ingredient

Beef Recipes
Chicken Recipes
Lamb Recipes
Pork Recipes
Seafood Recipes

Cocktails

Classic
Gin
Margarita
Moscow Mule
Vodka

Sides

Bread
Potatoes
Rice
Salad
Vegetables

Travel

Australia
California
Europe
Hawaii
Italy
About Me
Contact
Privacy Policy

© All Rights Reserved.

Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required

Recipe Ratings without Comment

Something went wrong. Please try again.