Discover the captivating flavors of Korean Beef Bulgogi, a dish that seamlessly combines tender marinated beef with aromatic seasonings. This beloved Korean barbecue staple not only offers a delightful taste experience but also invites a sense of community as families gather around the grill. With its charred edges and savory-sweet glaze, it’s no wonder this dish has gained global popularity.
Moreover, making Korean-style grilled beef at home provides an exciting culinary adventure. As you explore various marinades and cooking techniques, you’ll unlock a whole array of delicious possibilities. From its tempting aroma to the mouthwatering bite, each element of this dish makes it a beloved favorite among food enthusiasts everywhere.
What Makes This Dish Unique:
Korean Beef Bulgogi stands out for its perfect blend of flavors and ingredients that capture the essence of Korean cuisine. This dish is primarily known for its marinated beef, typically sliced thinly to ensure quick cooking while retaining tenderness. The marinade, composed of soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger, infuses the meat with a sweet and savory profile that is irresistible.
Moreover, bulgogi is often grilled or stir-fried, which adds a delightful smoky flavor. This method of preparation not only enhances the taste but also brings a unique texture to the beef. The addition of vegetables, such as onions and mushrooms, contributes to both the visual appeal and nutrition of the meal. For those looking for a comforting twist, consider trying Korean Ground Beef Bowl, which reimagines bulgogi in a hearty bowl format. Each bite of Korean Beef Bulgogi promises a delicious experience you won’t want to miss!
Ingredients for Korean Beef Bulgogi:
To make a delicious Korean Beef Bulgogi, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless rib eye steak
- ½ small pear, peeled and coarsely grated
- ¼ cup reduced sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon gochujang, Korean red pepper paste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
This delectable recipe features a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, thanks to key ingredients like pear and gochujang. If you’re looking for other delightful beef recipes, consider trying Korean Chicken Bao, which complements the rich profiles found in Korean cuisine. Enjoy your cooking adventure with this traditional dish that is perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions!
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Korean Beef Bulgogi
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Korean Beef Bulgogi is a delicious and savory dish made with tender marinated rib eye steak, grilled to perfection and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds boneless rib eye steak
½ small pear
peeled and coarsely grated
¼ cup reduced sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
3 cloves garlic
minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
1 tablespoon gochujang
Korean red pepper paste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
divided
2 green onions
thinly sliced
1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Thinly slice the rib eye steak against the grain and place it in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine the grated pear, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and gochujang to create the marinade.
- Pour the marinade over the sliced beef, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef in batches, cooking until browned, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Remove the cooked beef from the skillet and set aside. Add the remaining oil if needed, and toss in the green onions, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Return the beef to the skillet, and toss everything together. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
For best results, marinate the beef for a couple of hours. Serve with rice or lettuce wraps for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: sautéing
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup beef with garnish
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: Korean Beef Bulgogi, beef recipe, Korean cuisine, bulgogi, marinated beef
How to Prepare Korean Beef Bulgogi:
To create a delicious Korean beef bulgogi, start by thinly slicing the 1 ½ pounds of boneless rib eye steak into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the grated pear, reduced sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, and gochujang. This marinade gives your beef a sweet and spicy flavor. Next, add the sliced rib eye to the marinade, ensuring every piece is coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
In a large skillet or grill pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the marinated beef in batches, letting each side sear for about 3-4 minutes. Once cooked, garnish the bulgogi with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. For a delightful pairing, enjoy it with Korean barbecue chicken bowls from my blog. For more detailed recipes on this classic dish, check out this guide on how to make Korean beef bulgogi. Enjoy your flavorful journey into Korean cuisine!
Cooking Techniques for Korean Beef Bulgogi:
To achieve an authentic and delicious Korean Beef Bulgogi, mastering a few key cooking techniques is essential. First, marinating the beef is critical. Use a blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and sugar to tenderize and infuse the meat with flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes of marination, but longer is even better for richer taste.
Next, consider the cooking method. While grilling is traditional, stir-frying in a hot pan can yield fantastic results at home. Use high heat to sear the meat quickly, which helps retain juices and creates a beautiful caramelized exterior.
If you enjoy Korean-inspired meals, try out my Korean Chicken Bao for another delightful option. Finally, serve your bulgogi thinly sliced, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, alongside rice or lettuce wraps for an authentic experience.
Serving Suggestions for Korean Beef Bulgogi:
Korean Beef Bulgogi is not just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that can be enjoyed in various ways. For a traditional approach, serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice. This classic combination allows the savory flavors of the bulgogi to shine. You can also complement the dish with fresh vegetable sides like kimchi or steamed broccoli, which provide a refreshing contrast.
If you’re looking to mix things up, try creating Korean BBQ bowls. Pair the beef with pickled vegetables, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick. Another option is to enjoy leftover bulgogi in a delicious Korean Ground Beef Bowl, which is perfect for quick lunches. The versatility of Korean Beef Bulgogi means you can add it to lettuce wraps or even incorporate it into a stir-fry, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknight dinners.
Storage Tips for Korean Beef Bulgogi:
To keep your delicious Korean Beef Bulgogi fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to save it for longer, consider freezing it. Portion it out for easy use later, and try pairing it with a satisfying dish like Korean Ground Beef Bowl for a convenient meal! Always reheat thoroughly before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Korean Beef Bulgogi?
Korean Beef Bulgogi is a traditional marinated beef dish that is grilled or stir-fried. It features thinly sliced beef, typically ribeye or sirloin, marinated in a sweet and savory sauce made with soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and pepper. This delightful combination of flavors makes it a favorite in Korean cuisine.
How do I prepare the marinade for Korean Beef Bulgogi?
The marinade is key to the dish’s deliciousness. To create it, simply mix soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and black pepper. For additional depth, you may wish to incorporate grated pear or apple. They tenderize the meat while imparting a subtle sweetness.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to try something different, you can make a delightful version of bulgogi using chicken. For a fantastic twist, check out our recipe for Korean Chicken Bao.
What side dishes go well with Korean Beef Bulgogi?
Korean Beef Bulgogi pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Popular options include steamed rice, kimchi, pickled vegetables, and sesame spinach. Each side complements the savory notes of the beef beautifully.
Can I make Korean Beef Bulgogi in a slow cooker?
Yes, a slow cooker is a fantastic way to prepare this dish with minimal effort. Simply marinate the beef as usual, and then add it to the slow cooker with the marinade. Allow it to cook on low for several hours for tender, flavorful results.
How can I store leftovers of Korean Beef Bulgogi?
Leftover bulgogi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.