Explore the vibrant flavors of Korea with this simple yet delicious Beef Bulgogi recipe! Known for its irresistible blend of sweet and savory, Bulgogi is a beloved staple in Korean cuisine, characterized by its marinated, thinly sliced beef that cooks in a flash.
What is Bulgogi?
Bulgogi(불고기)
which literally translates to “fire meat,” is a classic Korean dish that has gained international fame for its distinctive flavor and ease of preparation.
Traditionally made with beef, Bulgogi involves marinating slices of meat in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and other flavorings, which might include pear or apple for added sweetness and tenderness. The meat is then cooked on a grill or stove-top griddle, resulting in a dish that’s both succulent and charred, perfect for sharing.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe provides an easy way to bring the essence of Korean BBQ into your kitchen. The secret lies in the marinade, a harmonious mix of ingredients that tenderizes the beef and infuses it with rich, mouthwatering flavors. By slicing the beef thinly, it not only absorbs the marinade more effectively but also ensures a quick cooking time, perfect for a fast-paced dinner.
Chef’s Notes – Easy Korean Beef Bulgogi
- Preparation is key; freezing the steak makes slicing easier and ensures even cooking.
- Experiment with different side dishes like jasmine rice or vegetables to complement the flavors.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet to achieve a nice char on the steak.
- Weekday Meals: Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner after a busy day.
- Dinner Parties: Impress your guests with this delicious Korean BBQ beef as the main course.
Additional Notes
- This Quick Korean BBQ Beef recipe offers a taste of authentic Korean flavors in a simple and convenient way.
- The dish features thinly sliced ribeye steak marinated in a blend of traditional Korean ingredients like gochujang and sesame oil.
- To enhance the meal, consider serving it with steamed rice, kimchi, and fresh vegetables for a complete Korean dining experience.
- Leftovers can be enjoyed the next day in rice bowls or wraps for a delicious and quick meal option.
Easy Korean Beef Bulgogi
4
servings2
hours30
minutes6
minutes600
kcal2
hours36
minutesDive into the sizzling world of Korean cuisine with this Easy Korean Beef Bulgogi recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish features thinly sliced ribeye steak marinated in a tantalizing blend of traditional Korean flavors, cooked to perfection in just minutes. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe promises a deliciously rewarding experience that brings the authentic taste of Korean BBQ right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
ribeye steak
1/2 small pear finely grated
3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 1/2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
2 cloves garlic minced
2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
2 teaspoons gochujang (Korean red pepper paste)
1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil divided for cooking
1 green onion thinly sliced for garnish
3/4 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish
- Alternative Ingredients
Apple instead of pear for a different sweetness profile.
Tamari or coconut aminos can replace soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Agave syrup or honey can substitute brown sugar for a different type of sweetness.
Directions
- Preparation – Wrap the ribeye steak in plastic and freeze for about 30 minutes to firm up for easier slicing.
- Marinade Creation – In a bowl, mix grated pear, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and gochujang.
- Marinating Meat – Place the thinly sliced steak in a resealable bag, pour in the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well-coated; marinate for at least 2 hours.
- Cooking Process – Heat half the vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet over high heat. Cook the steak in batches to avoid overcrowding, about 2-3 minutes per side until charred and cooked through.
- Serving Suggestions – Serve the cooked beef garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Equipment
- cast iron skillet
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 600kcal
- Fat: 50g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Potassium: 350mg
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Vitamin A: 50IU
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Calcium: 30mg
- Iron: 3mg
FAQ – Korean Beef Bulgogi
What cuts of beef are best for Bulgogi?
Typically, sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin are preferred for their tenderness and fat content, which contribute to the flavor and texture of the dish.
Can I make Bulgogi without a grill?
Yes, you can cook Bulgogi in a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. A cast iron skillet is especially good for achieving a nice sear on the meat.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to beef in Bulgogi?
Absolutely! Thinly sliced mushrooms, such as shiitake or king oyster, make a great substitute for beef. Tofu can also be used as a protein-rich vegetarian option.
How long should I marinate the beef?
For best results, marinate the beef for at least 1 hour. However, for deeper flavor, marinating overnight in the refrigerator is recommended.
What are some common side dishes to serve with Bulgogi?
Bulgogi is commonly served with steamed rice, kimchi, and a variety of other Korean side dishes known as banchan. Lettuce leaves for wraps and ssamjang (a spicy dipping sauce) are also popular.
Can Bulgogi be made spicy?
Yes, you can add heat to the marinade with Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru) or a small amount of Korean red pepper paste (gochujang).
How can I ensure the beef slices are thin enough?
Place the beef in the freezer for about 30 minutes before slicing. This firms it up, making it easier to cut into very thin slices.
