Korean Beef BBQ
Bulgogi, meaning "fire meat," is one of Korea's most beloved dishes and a delicious introduction to Korean cuisine. Unlike traditional Korean BBQ cooked over an open flame, bulgogi is typically prepared on a grill pan or stovetop, making it perfect for home cooking.
Thinly sliced beef is marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and the natural sweetness of Asian pear, then quickly grilled to tender perfection. The result is a dish that’s sweet, savory, and irresistibly delicious.
Bulgogi is an excellent choice for beginners exploring Korean flavors. Its easy preparation and universally loved taste make it a favorite for family meals, dinner parties, or even quick weeknight dinners. Pair it with steamed rice and banchan (Korean side dishes) for an authentic and satisfying meal!
Ingredients
For the Bulgogi Marinade:
For the Dipping Sauce:
For the Beef Bulgogi:
Suggested Banchan (Side Dishes):
Instructions
Prepare the Bulgogi Marinade:
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In a food processor, puree the Asian pear, onion, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the sesame oil, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Pour the puree mixture into the bowl and mix well to create the marinade.
Make the Dipping Sauce:
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In a small bowl, combine all the dipping sauce ingredients: red chili paste, fermented soybean paste, chopped garlic, chopped scallion, sesame oil, sesame seeds, and brown sugar. Mix well and set aside.
Marinate the Beef:
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In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced beef, julienned carrot, and sliced onion. Pour the bulgogi marinade over the top and mix well, ensuring the beef and vegetables are evenly coated.
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Cover the bowl and let the beef marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or longer if you have the time.
Grill the Bulgogi:
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Preheat your grill or bulgogi pan over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated beef, turning occasionally, until it is cooked through and slightly caramelized, about 3-5 minutes per side.
Serve:
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Serve with green leaf lettuce, the prepared dipping sauce, a selection of banchan (side dishes), and a side of steamed rice.
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A popular way to enjoy Korean BBQ is to wrap the grilled meat in lettuce leaves, add a bit of dipping sauce, and top with your favorite banchan before enjoying each bite.
Maricel's Tips
- For the best flavor, marinate the beef for at least an hour, but overnight is even better. This allows the meat to fully absorb the sweet and savory flavors of the marinade, making it incredibly tender and delicious.
- In Korea, a great tip for cooking bulgogi is to keep the flavorful juices in the pan as the meat cooks. Once the beef is almost done, you can toss in dangmyeon (sweet potato noodles) along with vegetables like carrots, spinach, and onions. The noodles absorb the savory-sweet bulgogi sauce, transforming the dish into a delicious, stir-fried japchae. It’s an easy way to get the most out of your bulgogi and create a hearty, one-pan meal!
