Korean-inspired juk (rice porridge)
Every cuisine in the world has its own version of comfort in a bowl—something warm, nourishing, and easy to digest. For Romanians, that might be a traditional rice pilaf, a staple on many family tables. In Korean cuisine, that dish is called juk—a rice porridge that’s both soothing and deeply satisfying.
Today I’m sharing a fusion version of juk: one that draws inspiration from Korean simplicity while using ingredients that support women’s health on all levels - hormonal balance, digestive function, and blood sugar stability. It's naturally gluten-free and can easily be adapted to what you already have in your kitchen.
In my case, I had some leftover pulled pork in the fridge, and instead of reheating it the usual way, I wanted to transform it—give it new life in a gut-friendly, warming dish. Enter: this pulled pork juk.
Why This Dish Works for Women’s Health?
1. Easy to Digest, Gentle on the Gut - Cooked rice in porridge form is incredibly gentle on the digestive system. Simmered slowly in broth, it becomes soft and broken down—ideal for anyone with digestive sensitivity, bloating, or a sluggish gut. The warmth of the dish also soothes the stomach and supports digestive fire.
2. Balanced Macros = Balanced Hormones This bowl combines complex carbohydrates from rice, high-quality protein from the pulled pork, healthy fats from sesame oil, and rainbow fibers from the veggies. This mix helps stabilize blood sugar, support steady energy levels, and prevent the cortisol-insulin spikes that can throw hormones off track—especially in women with PCOS, perimenopausal shifts, or adrenal fatigue.
3. Collagen and Mineral-Rich Stock Using a good-quality broth (ideally homemade or organic bone broth) brings in collagen, amino acids like glycine, and minerals that support detoxification, skin health, and hormone synthesis. This makes the dish more than just filling—it’s also restorative.
4. Functional Add-Ins for Immune and Hormonal Support Frozen mixed vegetables like peas, green beans, and carrots add fiber, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Topping it off with scallions and sesame seeds gives an extra layer of flavor and nutrients (zinc, selenium, sulfur compounds) that support immune resilience and hormone metabolism.
RECIPE
Ingredients:
1 cup short-grain rice (like arborio)
6 cups stock (chicken, beef, or vegetable)
1 lb pulled pork (or any pre-cooked/leftover meat)
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (corn, peas, carrots, lima beans, green beans)
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tsp pink Himalayan salt
1 tsp ground black pepper
Optional toppings: chopped scallions, toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the rice and sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring to coat evenly.
Stir in the frozen vegetables, pulled pork, salt, pepper, and stock. Mix well to combine.
Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and creamy, stirring occasionally.
Taste for salt and adjust is necessary.
Serve warm, topped with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.
As usual, these are my thoughts and ideas, not medical advice. You are encouraged to create your own recipes or search for some suited to your needs. I am just sharing my recipes, hoping that I can inspire some of you to make healthier food choices.
Please remember that we all have different nutritional needs and that food affects us differently. If you are not sure which foods are best for you, reach out for a free phone consultation.
In good health,
Ioana