Delicious homemade beef bulgogi marinated in savory Korean sauce

Korean Beef Bulgogi Recipe

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A warm evening with friends called for something special, and I couldn’t think of a better dish than the classic Korean Beef Bulgogi. This dish, famous for its savory-sweet marinade and tender beef, has always been a favorite in our home. The enticing aromas wafting from the kitchen while it’s grilling make it irresistible. It was a hit that night, and many others since! If you’re looking to impress your family or friends, this Korean Beef Bulgogi Recipe is the way to go. In just a few simple steps, you can dive into a deliciously unique culinary experience that captures the essence of Korean cuisine.

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What is Korean Beef Bulgogi?

Korean Beef Bulgogi is a traditional Korean dish made from thinly sliced beef marinated in a mix of soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. The term “bulgogi” translates to “fire meat,” referring to the preparation method of grilling or stir-frying the marinated beef. This dish is loved for its juicy, tender texture and vibrant flavors. The marinade, often enhanced with ingredients like pear or apple for natural sweetness, saturates the meat, offering a delightful contrast to the smoky grilling process.

Why You’ll Love This Korean Beef Bulgogi Recipe

  • Quick and Simple: You can whip this dish up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Family-Friendly Meal: The savory and slightly sweet flavors appeal to both adults and kids.
  • Great for Beginners: Even if you’re new to cooking Korean dishes, this recipe is easy to follow.
  • Customizable: Adjust the level of sweetness or spice to suit your family’s taste.
  • Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and vegetables, this dish makes for a balanced meal.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs ribeye or sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 6 tbsp soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/2 Asian pear or red apple, grated
  • 2 tbsp mirin (optional)
  • 1 tbsp gochujang (optional, for spice)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped green onions
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil (for cooking)
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 1 cup mushrooms (shiitake or white button), sliced
  • 2 tbsp honey butter (1 tbsp melted butter + 1 tbsp honey, mixed)
  • Cooked rice, for serving
  • Lettuce leaves or perilla leaves, for wrapping
  • Extra sesame seeds and sliced green onions, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions for Korean Beef Bulgogi

  1. Marinate the Beef: In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, grated pear, mirin, gochujang, and black pepper. Whisk together until well-blended. Add the thinly sliced beef, ensuring it’s fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for enhanced flavor.
  2. Prepare the Cooking Surface: Heat a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, then pour in the neutral oil.
  3. Cook the Beef: Once the pan is hot, add portions of the marinated beef, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side until it develops a lovely caramelization.
  4. Add Vegetables: Incorporate the sliced onion, julienned carrot, and mushrooms into the pan when the beef has about 1 minute of cooking time left. Stir them together to mix.
  5. Finish with Honey Butter: Drizzle the honey butter over the beef and vegetables, tossing quickly to coat everything in the sweet glaze.
  6. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve hot with cooked rice and lettuce leaves for wrapping.

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Pro Tips and Variations

  • Choosing the Meat: Ribeye and sirloin are tender cuts, but you can also use flank steak or tenderloin for a leaner option.
  • Marinade Time: Marinating for a longer time, up to 24 hours, will enhance the flavors significantly.
  • Vegetable Add-ons: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a kick, incorporate more gochujang or a few slices of fresh chili peppers into the marinade.

How to Serve Korean Beef Bulgog

Korean Beef Bulgogi is traditionally served with steamed white rice, which acts as a perfect canvas for the flavorful beef. You can serve it with:

  • Lettuce Wraps: Create fresh, crunchy wraps with lettuce leaves or perilla leaves, adding a bit of rice and beef for a delightful hand-held meal.
  • Kimchi: A side of kimchi adds a tangy contrast that complements the sweet flavors of the bulgogi.
  • Pickled Vegetables: Serve with pickled radishes or cucumbers for an extra crunch.
  • Banchan: Traditional Korean side dishes like seasoned spinach, bean sprouts, or seaweed salad.

How to Store Korean Beef Bulgogi

Leftover Korean Beef Bulgogi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce if needed to retain moisture.

Nutrition Information

While the specific nutritional information will depend on precise ingredient amounts, on average, a serving of Korean Beef Bulgogi provides:

  • Calories: Approximately 300-400
  • Protein: 25-30g
  • Fat: 15-20g
  • Carbohydrates: 15-20g

This dish is a balanced meal, rich in protein and vitamins from the vegetables, making it a healthy choice for a variety of diets.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken or pork instead of beef? Yes, chicken thighs or pork tenderloin can also be used. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked.

2. Is bulgogi spicy? Traditional bulgogi is not spicy, but you can add gochujang for some heat, depending on personal preference.

3. Can I make bulgogi without soy sauce? You can use coconut aminos or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative if you’re avoiding soy.

4. What is the best way to serve leftovers? Leftovers can be enjoyed cold in salads, reheated as a filling for wraps, or served with fresh veggies for a quick meal.

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Conclusion

Now that you have the ultimate guide to Korean Beef Bulgogi, it’s time to try your hand at this delicious recipe. With its layers of flavor and versatility, you’ll see why so many love this dish. Gather your ingredients, invite your family and friends over, and savor every bite. Don’t forget to share your experiences and variations you might inspire someone else to bring a taste of Korea into their kitchen

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