How to Make Grilled Deodeok – A Korean BBQ Side You’ll Love
Grilled Deodeok(Codonopsis lanceolata): The Perfect Match with Samgyeopsal(Korean grilled pork belly)
Recipe Summary
With its earthy aroma and chewy texture, grilled deodeok is a healthy Korean dish that shines as a side or main. Its bold flavor and smoky edge make it a brilliant match for grilled meat like samgyeopsal. This guide walks you through prep, seasoning, cooking, and pairing ideas.
Table of Contents
- Why Grilled Deodeok Is So Special
- Ingredients and Preparation Tips
- Perfect Seasoning Ratio
- Cooking Methods: Pan vs. Oven
- Creative Serving Ideas
- Q&A for First-Time Cooks
Why Grilled Deodeok Is So Special
Deodeok, a mountain root with a bitter yet fragrant note, becomes irresistibly delicious when grilled with gochujang-based sauce. It balances bitterness and sweetness beautifully, especially when slightly charred. Paired with pork belly, it's a game-changer.
Ingredients and Preparation Tips
- Deodeok: 6–8 roots (for 2 servings)
- Other ingredients: Perilla oil, sesame seeds, a pinch of salt
- How to prep: Rinse thoroughly, peel the skin, and flatten with a rolling pin or knife side
- Optional: Soak in salt water for 10 minutes to reduce bitterness

Perfect Seasoning Ratio
Gochujang for umami, honey for sweetness, garlic for depth—balance is key.
- 2 tbsp gochujang
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey or oligosaccharide
- 1 tbsp Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
- 1 tbsp water
Mix and coat the deodeok evenly. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes for deeper flavor.
Cooking Methods: Pan vs. Oven
Pan-Grilling
Heat a pan on low-medium heat with perilla oil. Grill each side of the seasoned deodeok for 2–3 minutes until golden. Avoid high heat as the sauce may burn.
Oven-Roasting
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Roast deodeok for 10–12 minutes, flipping once halfway. Brush lightly with perilla oil after baking for extra aroma.
Creative Serving Ideas
- Pair with pork belly or bulgogi: Cuts the richness and adds herbal flair
- Serve over white rice: The charred sauce over rice is simply addictive
- Add to lunchboxes: Grilled deodeok keeps well and adds fragrance to meals
- Top your salad: Use plain grilled deodeok as a smoky root veggie topping
Q&A for First-Time Cooks
- Q: Deodeok feels tough—how do I soften it?
A: Flattening it with a rolling pin after peeling helps break down fibers and improve texture.
- Q: It tastes bitter. Can I fix that?
A: Soaking in salt water for 10 minutes before seasoning reduces its natural bitterness.
- Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep grilled deodeok in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays tasty for up to 3 days.

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